Wanda Thomas Bernard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wanda Thomas Bernard
CM ONS
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| Canadian Senator from East Preston, Nova Scotia |
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| Assumed office November 10, 2016 |
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| Nominated by | Justin Trudeau |
| Appointed by | David Johnston |
| Personal details | |
| Born | August 1, 1953 Halifax, Nova Scotia |
| Political party | Progressive Senate Group |
| Occupation | Academic |
| Profession | Social worker and educator |
Wanda Thomas Bernard is a respected Canadian senator. She was born on August 1, 1953. Before becoming a senator, she was well-known as a social worker and a teacher. She has always worked to make Canada a more fair and diverse country for everyone.
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Meet Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard
Wanda Thomas Bernard has made history in many ways. She was the first Black Canadian to become a full professor at Dalhousie University. This means she reached the highest teaching rank at the university. Her work there focused on fighting against unfairness and celebrating different cultures.
Her Journey as an Educator
Wanda Thomas Bernard was a social worker and a teacher from East Preston, Nova Scotia. She taught at Dalhousie University. Her research helped people understand how to fight against oppression. She also taught about the importance of diversity in society.
She was one of the people who helped start the Association of Black Social Workers. This group helps Black social workers and supports their communities.
Serving in the Senate
On October 27, 2016, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau chose Wanda Thomas Bernard to join the Senate of Canada. The Senate is a part of Canada's Parliament. Senators review laws and speak for different regions and groups in Canada.
When she was chosen, she was working as the head of the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women. This group works to improve the lives of women in Nova Scotia.
Senator Bernard is the first African Nova Scotian woman to serve in the Senate. This was a very important moment for her community.
Supporting Emancipation Day
Senator Bernard strongly believes that Canada should officially recognize Emancipation Day. This day celebrates the freedom of enslaved people. She even suggested a special law in 2018 to make it an official day across Canada.
In 2020, Senator Bernard joined a group called the Progressive Senate Group. This group works together in the Senate to achieve common goals.
Awards and Recognition
Wanda Thomas Bernard has received several important awards for her hard work. In 2005, she was given the Order of Canada. This is one of the highest honors a Canadian can receive. She got it for her efforts to address racism and promote diversity in social work.
In 2014, she also received the Order of Nova Scotia. This award recognizes people who have made great contributions to the province of Nova Scotia.
