Honourable Greg Fergus named as first Black Speaker of the House of Commons

BY PAUL JUNOR

Greg Fergus was named the first Black Speaker of the House of Parliament on Tuesday, October 3^rd, 2023. This historic appointment is an inspiring and significant milestone in Canadian history and politics. The monumental nature of this appointment is a turning point in Canada, and it speaks to the high regard that the Honourable Greg Fergus has among his colleagues, peers, friends, politicians and civic officials across Canada in the many calls of congratulations.

Honourable Fergus attained two Bachelor’s degrees in social science and the other in international relations from Carleton University. In addition, he has completed graduate studies in international relations. He has more than 30 years of experience in the private and public sectors, with not-for-profit organizations and in academic settings. He has done extensive work in federal politics at many levels of the Liberal Party of Canada where he served as National Director prior to his decision to run for office.

Greg Fergus was first elected Member of Parliament for Hull-Aylmer in October 2015 and served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, and to the President of the Treasury Board since 2021. He was the previous Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Digital Government and to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. In addition, he was a member of the Standing Committee on Finance.

Honourable Fergus is a founding member of the Parliamentary Black Caucus and the Liberal Black Caucus. He served as co-chair of both of these caucuses until April 2022.

In many ways he was instrumental in advancing the interests of African Canadians before the COVID-19 pandemic and afterwards to ensure that they were a priority for the government of Canada. It was largely because of his involvement that the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) was launched. The government of Canada’s website: ised-isde.canada.ca states, “The BEP is a partnership between the Government of Canada, Black-led business organizations, and financial institutions. With an investment of up to $265 million over four years, it will help Black Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs grow their businesses and succeed now and into the future.”

Tiffany Callender, CEO of the Federation of African Canadian Economics highlights the significance of this appointment. She writes, “Greg Fergus’s historic appointment as Speaker of the Canadian House of Commons is a Testament to his exemplary leadership, dedication to public service, and unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion. His appointment not only shatters, but also serves as a source of inspiration for countless individuals from diverse backgrounds, reminding us of the boundless possibilities within Canada’s democratic institutions.”

Senator/Senatrice Bernadette Clement in a congratulatory message acknowledges the significance of this historic appointment. She states, “Greg Fergus is a well-respected figure on Parliament Hill and has been for years. He is a terrific communicator, superbly eloquent in both English and French. He has actively encouraged and inspired so many Black folks over the years (including me) and will continue to do so for many more. I am certain that he will be devoted to his new role and that he will represent our country with great competence and elegance. Congratulations on your new role!”

In the House of Commons, Honourable Greg Fergus thanked his fellow colleagues for electing him to be speaker on October 4^th, 2023. He states, “Today, I wish to thank all Canadians for the kind words of congratulations I have received so far. It is for you and because of you that all 338 members of Parliament gathered with the same goal of serving Canada and its people. Furthermore, I would like to specifically thank the people of Hull-Aylmer for your support since 2015. My office and I remain committed to serving you. Be good.”