Emery Barnes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Emery Barnes
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| 31st Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia | |
| In office March 22, 1994 – May 27, 1996 |
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| Premier | Mike Harcourt Glen Clark |
| Lieutenant Governor | David Lam Garde Gardom |
| Preceded by | Joan Sawicki |
| Succeeded by | Dale Lovick |
| Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia | |
| In office March 17, 1992 – March 22, 1994 |
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| Preceded by | Austin Pelton |
| Succeeded by | Dale Lovick |
| Member of the British Columbia Legislative Assembly for Vancouver-Burrard |
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| In office October 17, 1991 – May 28, 1996 |
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| Preceded by | Riding Established |
| Succeeded by | Tim Stevenson |
| Member of the British Columbia Legislative Assembly for Vancouver Centre |
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| In office August 30, 1972 – October 17, 1991 Serving with Gary Lauk (1972-1986)
Mike Harcourt (1986-1991) |
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| Preceded by | Herb Capozzi Evan Maurice Wolfe |
| Succeeded by | Riding Abolished |
| Personal details | |
| Born | December 15, 1929 New Orleans, Louisiana, United States |
| Died | June 1, 1998 (aged 68) Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada |
| Political party | British Columbia New Democratic Party |
| Occupation | Social Worker |
Emery Oakland Barnes (December 15, 1929 – June 1, 1998) was an important Canadian politician and a professional football player. He was known for his work in social justice and for breaking barriers.
Contents
Early Life and Sports
Emery Barnes was born in Louisiana, USA, and grew up in Oregon. He was a very talented athlete from a young age.
Olympic Dreams
In 1952, Emery was an alternate high jumper for the United States Olympic Track and Field team. This means he was ready to compete if another athlete couldn't.
Football Career
Emery played football at the University of Oregon, where he earned a science degree. He was chosen by the National Football League's Green Bay Packers in 1954. He played a few games for them in 1956.
He found more success in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the B.C. Lions. He played for the Lions from 1962 to 1964. In 1964, his team won the Grey Cup, which is like the championship game in Canadian football. Emery also earned a degree in social work from the University of British Columbia.
Political Journey
Before becoming a politician, Emery Barnes worked as a social worker. He cared deeply about helping people.
First Black MLA
In 1972, Emery Barnes was elected to the British Columbia legislature. He was re-elected four times and served until 1996. Emery and another politician, Rosemary Brown, made history. They were the first Black politicians elected to a legislative office in British Columbia in the 20th century.
Fighting for Fairness
Emery Barnes was very passionate about social justice, human rights, and helping people who were struggling with poverty. He worked hard to make sure everyone was treated fairly.
Speaker of the Legislature
In 1994, Emery Barnes was chosen to be the Speaker of the Legislature. This was another historic moment. He was the first Black person to hold this important position in any Canadian province. The Speaker leads the meetings of the legislature and makes sure rules are followed.
Legacy
Emery Barnes passed away on June 1, 1998. His contributions to sports and politics are remembered.
Emery Barnes Park
The city of Vancouver honored him by naming a park after him. Emery Barnes Park is located at 1100 Seymour Street. It is a place where people can relax and remember his work.
Family Connection
Emery Barnes's daughter, Constance Barnes, has also been involved in politics. She was an elected member of the Vancouver Park Board.
