Every story, every trailblazer, every piece of history contributes to the collective narrative of who we are as a society. As I delved deep into the writing of Trailblazers in Canada, it became clear that our Canadian school curriculum was often telling an incomplete story. This realization wasn't just a subtle itch; it was a gnawing void that bothered me at my core.
Most of us are familiar with tales of tech giants like Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and Steve Jobs. Yet, how many of us know about Alan Emtage, the genius who pioneered the very concept of internet search? A trailblazing Black innovator, Emtage's work preceded the era where “Googling” became second nature. Yet, his monumental contribution to the digital world remains largely overshadowed. And, one of the most remarkable things about Emtage? He chose not to patent his invention, a move that could have earned him immeasurable wealth and recognition. Why? Because his primary intention was ensuring people had unrestricted access to this breakthrough innovation.
In a phrase: Representation matters. The old adage,
"If you can see it, you can be it,"
rings truer than ever. It's essential for our younger generations, especially Black Canadians, to visualize themselves in roles that stretch beyond the stereotypes society might place on them. In doing so, they not only believe in their worthiness but also foster the inspiration to become leaders, thought pioneers, and industry front-runners.
In this journey of chronicling these legends, a key takeaway emerged: a significant number of them, just like Alan Emtage, were driven by the ethos of the collective rather than the individual. It's a mindset that has the power to redefine societal values, prioritize accessibility, and indeed, be a catalyst for genuine innovation.
Take, for instance, the indomitable spirit of Lucy and Thornton Blackburn. The powerhouse couple created the first taxi service in Toronto. They began this venture with a deeper mission: to create an equitable means of transport, ensuring accessibility for all. Their commitment wasn't merely to establish a business, but to build community and create safe spaces for the most marginalized. What started as a solution to a community need quickly burgeoned into an empire. And, in the spirit of collective upliftment, they continually reinvested and shared their resources, setting a gold standard for community-focused entrepreneurship.
Language, the very medium through which these stories are told, plays a pivotal role. The words we choose shape perspectives and realities. Consider the profound difference between 'enslavement' and 'slavery.' One denotes a condition, while the other risks reducing an identity. And while on the topic of identity, even the capitalization in 'Black' when referring to a person, versus 'black' when pointing to a color, makes a significant difference in acknowledging value and identity.
Many of the trailblazers chronicled in the book were self-taught, having educated themselves against all odds. Their passion and determination led them to generate groundbreaking innovations that not only enriched their communities but also significantly impacted Canadian society at large.
Dedicating almost two years of my life to Trailblazers in Canada wasn't just about sharing stories; it was about unearthing them. Many tales were so deeply buried, requiring exhaustive research and a commitment to shine light where it was long overdue. Some trailblazers in the book left behind no photographs, while others had no descendants to vouch for their legacies. This journey was so transformative and challenging that I've even toyed with the idea of penning another book solely about the intricate process of bringing this one to life!
Children, regardless of their background, deserve to know and understand that individuals who might look or sound different have been leaders of industries, revolutionaries in businesses, and champions of innovative thoughts. They need to recognize their inherent worthiness and the boundless potential that awaits them.
Trailblazers in Canada isn't just a book. It's a movement, an invitation to embrace a broader, more inclusive narrative of our shared history. One that champions diversity, values representation, and inspires the next generation of Black Canadian leaders to blaze their unique trails. It’s a testament to the fact that when we lead with a collective mindset, not only do we foster breakthrough innovations, but we also lay the foundations for a more inclusive and equitable future.
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