Zanana Akande

"Both of my parents were interested in politics, but it was really my father who encouraged us from a very young age to watch the news and consider why certain decisions were being made."

"I supported their platform because I thought it spoke to the issues that were most unfair and needed to be addressed."

"It becomes more possible to elect another Black person, so that it seems not that exceptional."

"Change is not always welcomed. The default position for many of the people in government is white male."

"I felt I could do more on the outside, which I continued to do working for long-term care and integrated services for children."

"A passionate and determined advocate for social justice, Zanana Akande made history in Canada as the first Black woman to serve as a cabinet minister."

"As an educator and community-builder in Toronto, she has dedicated her career to the well-being of others, particularly those in marginalized communities."

"Today, for her tireless leadership in public service and her fearless advocacy for equity and diversity, Akande will receive a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, from the University of Toronto."