The Government of Canada recognizes the national historic significance of Oliver Le Jeune, the first documented person of African ancestry to live permanently in Canada (New France)

October 11, 2023                         Québec, Quebec                               Parks Canada

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, will participate in a plaque unveiling ceremony organized by Parks Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada to commemorate the national historic significance of Olivier Le Jeune (c.1621 to c.1654).

Olivier Le Jeune is recognized as the first documented person of African ancestry in Canada, and his story serves as a poignant reminder of Canada's complex history with slavery. The unveiling of this plaque is an important recognition of the contributions and struggles of Black Canadians throughout history.

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos will make the announcement on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Steven Guilbeault.

Please note that this advisory is subject to change without notice.

The details are as follows:

Date:               Friday, October 13, 2023

Time:              Ceremony starts at 1:30 p.m. (EDT)
                        Media are asked to arrive at 1:15 p.m.               

Location:       Cartier-Brébeuf National Historic Site
                        175 de l’Espinay Street
                        Québec, Quebec

                                                                                                                        -30-