Lincoln Alexander Day

Lincoln Alexander Day is observed annually on January 21. In 2026, it falls on January 21. This commemorative day honors the life and legacy of the Honourable Lincoln MacCauley Alexander, a pioneer for racial equity and social justice in Canada. The date coincides with Alexander’s birthday, serving as a national opportunity to reflect on his significant “firsts” for the Black community and his lifelong commitment to public service. While it is a formally recognized day of observance across the country, it is not a statutory holiday.

History of Lincoln Alexander Day

The push to recognize Lincoln Alexander’s contributions began shortly after his death in 2012. The Legislative Assembly of Ontario was the first to act, passing the Lincoln Alexander Day Act in December 2013 to proclaim his birthday as a provincial day of significance. Recognizing his impact reached far beyond provincial borders, the Parliament of Canada followed suit, granting Royal Assent to the national Lincoln Alexander Day Act in December 2014. The first pan-Canadian observance took place on January 21, 2015.

Lincoln Alexander’s personal history is a testament to perseverance against systemic barriers. Born in Toronto in 1922 to immigrant parents, he served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II before pursuing a career in law. In 1968, he made history as the first Black Member of Parliament in the House of Commons, representing Hamilton West. His career continued to break racial ceilings when he was appointed as the first Black federal Cabinet Minister in 1979 and later as the 24th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario in 1985, the first Black person to hold a vice-regal position in Canada.

Why is Lincoln Alexander Day important?

Lincoln Alexander Day serves as a critical bridge to Black History Month, which begins in February. It provides a specific focal point for Canadians to learn about the history of racial discrimination in Canada and the individuals who worked to dismantle it. Alexander’s career was marked by a refusal to accept the status quo; his advocacy for education, youth, and race relations helped reshape Canadian government institutions to be more representative of the population. By celebrating his life, the day reinforces the values of diversity and inclusion as central pillars of Canadian identity.

The observance is particularly important for the Canadian legal and educational systems. Alexander served as the Chancellor of the University of Guelph for an unprecedented five terms, emphasizing the power of education as a tool for social mobility. His legacy is preserved through numerous awards and institutions that bear his name, which encourage young people to pursue excellence regardless of their background. Highlighting his story reminds citizens that progress is achieved through disciplined study, service to others, and the courage to speak out against inequity even when it is professionally risky to do so.

• Lincoln Alexander was the first Black Canadian elected to the House of Commons.
• He served as the first Black federal Cabinet Minister in Canadian history.
• The day recognizes his role as Ontario’s first Black Lieutenant Governor.
• He advocated for human rights as the Chair of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation.
• His life provides a tangible example of overcoming racial prejudice through public service.

How to Celebrate Lincoln Alexander Day

Educational engagement is the primary way to observe this day in Canada. Schools and universities often host assemblies or guest speakers to discuss Alexander’s impact on Canadian law and politics. Individuals can participate by reading his memoir, “Go to School, You’re a Little Black Boy,” which provides a detailed account of his journey and the challenges he faced. Taking the time to visit local landmarks named in his honor, such as the Lincoln M. Alexander Secondary School or the Lincoln Alexander Parkway in Hamilton, can also offer a moment of reflection on his physical legacy in the community.

Community involvement and advocacy are also central to the spirit of the day. You can celebrate by supporting organizations that promote racial equity and provide mentorship to Black youth, continuing the work Alexander championed throughout his life. Sharing his quotes or accomplishments on social media helps raise awareness for those unfamiliar with his story. Many people also choose to use the day to engage in discussions about modern social justice issues, renewing their commitment to building a more equitable society through volunteer work or civic participation.

• Read a biography or watch a documentary about Lincoln Alexander’s life.
• Discuss his “firsts” with children to teach them about Canadian civil rights.
• Support Black-led community organizations that focus on youth and education.
• Visit a library to research his contributions to the Royal Canadian Air Force.
• Attend a virtual or in-person lecture hosted by a Canadian heritage society.

Lincoln Alexander Day Dates Table