02/28/2023
As we wrap up Black History month, we are also wrapping up our list of Black movers and shakers that we’ve been sharing all month long.
Today we highlight Canada’s first and only Black Governor-General, Michaëlle Jean.
Michaëlle Jean was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. At age 11, her family arrived in Canada as refugees.
They were escaping a cruel leader in her homeland. Life in Canada was difficult at first. She lived with her mother and sister in a small basement apartment in Montreal.
Michaëlle Jean worked hard in school, and even learned to speak five languages! She became a popular journalist.
On August 4, 2005, she was appointed Governor-General of Canada. That is the Queen's representative in Canada. She is the first Black Canadian to hold the position.
She served from 2005 - 2010.
(Some info shared is courtesy of )