With the attached poster and curriculum resource, the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario encourages you to celebrate the strength of Black Canadian women in the development and creation of Canadian culture and identity. We have chosen five Canadian women whose lives span decades but whose struggle still resonates with many of us. When we acknowledge individuals like Viola Desmond who is often referred to as ‘Canada’s Rosa Parks’, we bring to the fore the struggle against segregation in the 1940’s. When we discuss the contributions of women in sport, we celebrate the triumphs of the first female Hockey Hall of Fame inductee, Angela James. When we look to changing political leadership, we recognize the first Black Governor General of Canada, the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean. To understand why it’s important to acknowledge Black Canadians, we need look no further than Rosemary Sadlier who initially put forward this notion. And finally, when we need to understand our history of segregation, anti-racist activism, and the ideal of education for all, we acknowledge 86 year old Wanda Robson who has spent decades breaking down barriers and showing us that the freedom to speak, be educated, and be respected are rights for all Canadians. The curriculum and teacher resource (grade 1 to 8) is posted on the ETFO website ûetfo.ca along with the poster for easy access for all members.

Electronic reproduction. Available online at: http://www.etfo.ca/SupportingMembers/Resources/ForTeachersDocuments/Black%20Canadian%20Women%20-%20A%20Legacy%20of%20Strength%20-%20Full%20Resource.pdf.