Bill White (Canadian politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Andrew White
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Bill White, seen here in the mid-1970s.
Photo courtesy of the White family. |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | February 7, 1915 Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada |
| Died | January 23, 1981 (aged 65) New Zealand |
| Political party | Co-operative Commonwealth Federation |
| Spouse | Vivian R. Keeler |
| Children | W. Romney White, Chris White, Laurie White, Sheila White, Tim White |
| Residences | Scarborough, Ontario, Canada |
| Occupation | Teacher/Composer/Choral Group Leader |
William Andrew White, III (February 7, 1915 – January 23, 1981) was an important Canadian composer and social justice activist. He was the first Black Canadian person to run for a federal political job in Canada.
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Who Was William Andrew White?
William Andrew White was born in 1915 in Truro, Nova Scotia. His father, William A. White, was a Baptist minister. His mother was Izie Dora White.
William was one of 13 children. Many of his siblings became famous. His sister, Portia White, was a world-famous concert singer. His brother, Jack White, was a labour union leader and politician. Another brother, Lorne White, was a television performer. His nephew, Donald H. Oliver, became the first Black Canadian Senator.
His family later moved to Halifax. There, his father was a minister for almost 20 years. William went to local schools. He earned degrees in education and music. He worked as a music teacher. He was also a composer and led singing groups.
His Family Life
Bill White married Vivian Keeler. They had five children together. Their children include:
- W. Romney White, a software designer
- Chris White, a folk musician
- Laurie White, a doctor in Toronto
- Sheila White, a social activist and politician
- Tim White, a professional musician
Running for Office
In 1949, Bill White decided to run for a federal political job. This means he wanted to become a Member of Parliament. He ran in the Toronto area called Spadina. He was a candidate for the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) party. This party was a group that worked for social fairness.
Even though he ran, he was not elected. However, he made history. He was the first Black Canadian to ever run for a federal political position in Canada.
Special Honours
Bill White received a very special award. On December 18, 1970, he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada. This is one of Canada's highest honours. He officially received the award on March 31, 1971.
He was given this award for his "services to the community." It also recognized his work to improve understanding between people of different backgrounds. In 1976, he was also named the Scarborough Citizen of the Year.
Later Life and Death
Bill White passed away in New Zealand on January 23, 1981.
See also
- Electoral firsts in Canada
