January 21, 2021
The Ontario government is recognizing six outstanding young leaders with the Lincoln M. Alexander Award for their commitment to anti-racism and equity in their communities.
Today, the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Chancellor of the Order of Ontario, announced the 2019 and 2020 award recipients.
2019 Recipients
Eki Okungbowa of Toronto, age 24 (Community Award)
Deborah Tewelde of Kitchener, age 19 (Student Award)
Halimo-Kafia Mohamed Fourreh of Ottawa, age 19 (Student Award)
2020 Recipients
Mohammed Rafique of Kitchener, age 18 (Community Award)
Ahona Mehdi of Hamilton, age 18 (Student Award)
Julius Nuako K. Adu of Markham, age 19 (Student Award)
Each year, the Lincoln M. Alexander Award is given to up to three young people — students or community leaders — who have demonstrated exemplary leadership in working to eliminate racial discrimination. Each recipient receives a $5,000 award and a certificate.
"This past year has brought issues of inequality and discrimination to the forefront of the world's attention," said Her Honour, Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. "Here in Ontario, we are not exempt from these struggles. The Lincoln M. Alexander Award, named after the first Black Lieutenant Governor in Canada, recognizes exceptional individuals who have shown leadership in working to eliminate racial discrimination. My deepest congratulations and respect go to the 2019 and 2020 recipients who have shown courage, leadership, and have set an example for all of us to follow. His Honour would have been most proud."
"Our government is proud to recognize and congratulate the 2019 and 2020 Lincoln M. Alexander Award recipients," said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. "These young leaders represent what Ontario is always striving to be - a place that offers and celebrates the world in one province. I ask all Ontarians to join me in honouring them and their exemplary work in making a positive difference in our communities, striving to eliminate racial discrimination and promote social inclusion and equity across our province."
The award was established by the Government of Ontario in honour of Colonel Lincoln MacCauley Alexander, the province's 24th Lieutenant Governor. It recognizes his legacy as the first Black person elected to the House of Commons, the first Black Cabinet Minister, and the province's first Black Lieutenant Governor.
"Congratulations to the recipients of the 2019 and 2020 Lincoln Alexander Award," said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education. "Through their transformative actions to combat racism, discrimination and inequity, these exceptional young adults have demonstrated exemplary leadership. Their outstanding efforts contribute to schools that are safe, respectful, and inclusive communities that allow for every student to succeed."
The government encourages all Ontarians to consider nominating outstanding young leaders for this award. Ontario's robust and extensive honours and awards program also includes the June Callwood Award and the Volunteer Service Award. Please visit Ontario's website for more information or to nominate an exceptional young leader, volunteer or volunteer organization.
Quick Facts
The Lincoln M. Alexander Award has recognized 70 recipients since its establishment in 1993.
Recipients of the Lincoln M. Alexander Award are chosen by an independent selection committee in recognition of their leadership and excellence in fighting racial discrimination and advancing social justice and equity.
Ontario recognizes the significant contributions of Colonel the Honourable Lincoln M. Alexander on January 21 — his birthday — which was designated Lincoln Alexander Day in 2013.
Nominate someone for the Lincoln M. Alexander Award. Nominations close on May 31, 2021.
Additional Resources
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