Viola Desmond will be the first Black Nova Scotian (Black Canadian) to grace the face of a Canadian banknote.
According to the Huffington Post, Viola Desmond is described as the Rosa Parks of Canada. Back in 1946 she challenged racial segregation by refusing to move from a whites-only section at a movie theatre.
She was convicted of a minor tax violation and used to enforce segregation. Now many years later she will be honored by appearing on a Candadian banknote.
Finance Minister Bill Morneau says that Desmond will appear on the $10 bill when the next series goes into circulation in 2018.
He said in a news conference, “Today is about recognizing the incalculable contribution that all women have had and continue to have in shaping Canada’s story. Viola Desmond’s own story reminds all of us that big change can start with moments of dignity and bravery.”
He continued, “She represents courage, strength and determination — qualities we should all aspire to every day.”
Wanda Robson, who is the sister to Desmond, helped make her storymore well-known. She was also present for the announcement.
Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2016/12/08/first-woman-canadian-banknote_n_13511522.html
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