September 18, 2025

The Honourable Donald H. Oliver’s passing marks the loss of a true Canadian visionary who broke down barriers of systemic racism.

As the first Black man appointed to the Senate, he had a tremendous impact on public life and the fight for equity, one that will be felt for generations.

In 2023, I had the honour of visiting the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, an institution he helped found, and saw first-hand the legacy of pride, resilience and culture he helped preserve and uplift.

Whit and I are deeply saddened by the loss of this trailblazing changemaker.

Mary Simon

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