The first black subject to slavery in New France at the beginning of the 17th century, Olivier Le Jeune was designated Tuesday by Ottawa as a person of national historic importance.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Steven Guilbeault, on the recommendation of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.
“I am honored to commemorate the national historic significance of Olivier Le Jeune, whose experiences as the first enslaved person of African descent in early Canada exemplify the struggles of Black Canadians,” said the Minister. Guilbeault.
Already recognized as a historical figure in Quebec in 2020, Le Jeune had a winding journey in his life, from his birth in Madagascar or on the Guinea Coast, according to the archives, until his death on May 10, 1654 at the age of 30 years.
Le Jeune’s life remains emblematic in the historical narrative, since it provides an insight into the experience of people subjected to slavery, dehumanized and stripped of their identity in New France.
The presence of Olivier Le Jeune “in the territory that was to become Canada is a fundamental founding act of Afro-Canadian history”, added hip-hop artist Aly Ndiaye, alias Webster, who nominated The young.
National historic designations are a memorial stop to recognize the victories and challenges that have shaped the Canada of today and reflect on how best to build a more inclusive society for future generations.
Reference-www.journaldemontreal.com