Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine P.C., C.M., O.Ont., C.B.E. is the first African-Canadian woman to be elected to the House of Commons. She was elected in the riding of Etobicoke-Lakeshore in 1993 and sat in Parliament until 2006. During this time, she served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, Minister of State and Deputy Speaker.
In 2007, Dr. Jean Augustine was nominated by the Government of Ontario as Fairness Commissioner, a position created to advocate for Canadians with foreign credentials. Dr. Augustine retired from the position of Fairness Commissioner in March 2015.
Among Dr. Augustine’s many achievements and honours includes leading the motion that allowed for the placement of the Famous Five (Women are Persons!) statue on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, and the motion that created Black History Month in Canada.
Dr. Augustine has received honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from seven universities. She also has been recognised by having the following named in her honour: