Ontario’s first Black lieutenant-governor and long-time resident of Hamilton, Lincoln Alexander is set to be honoured again.
In what has reverberated positively in the public domain, the faculty of law at Ryerson University in Toronto has disclosed that it will rename the institution after Lincoln Alexander in a virtual ceremony on May 6.
It is imperative to note that Alexander, born in Toronto, spent most of his life in Hamilton where he attended McMaster University, built a law practice and raised his family.
In a statement obtained by newsmen, Ryerson University president and vice-chancellor Mohamed Lachemi said “Throughout his career, Mr. Alexander demonstrated a longstanding commitment to championing education and youth initiatives and advancing racial equality”.
“Today’s announcement is a very fitting testament to those commitments and we hope that our students will similarly serve and support others in their future careers holding true to their values with the same fervour that he did.”
Records have it that Alexander was elected to represent the federal riding of Hamilton West in 1968, became the first Black man elected to parliament and eventually the country’s first Black cabinet minister under the Progressive Conservative party’s minority government headed by Joe Clark in 1979.
The history maker was appointed Lieutenant Governor of Ontario in 1985.
Speaking on the honour, Alexander’s granddaughter, Erika Alexander said “Many know that my grandfather studied law, and that his choice to do so led him on his particular journey. He made many sacrifices and worked extremely hard throughout his life,”
“I believe having a law school named after Lincoln MacCauley Alexander provides a feeling of uniqueness, inclusiveness and relatability.”
On her part, Alexander’s widow, Lincoln Beal-Alexander said “Throughout his decorated career, Lincoln achived many pioneering firsts but his kindness, generosity, and devotion to family and to Canadians across the country is irrefutable. I am heartened to know that Lincoln’s values and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion are deeply espoused by the law school that will bear his name”.
It would be recalled that the Lincoln M. Alexander Parkway on Hamilton’s Mountain was named after him in July 1997.
