A bronze bust commemorating Lincoln Alexander, Canada's inaugural Black Member of Parliament and former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, was unveiled at Queen's Park on Sunday (Jan. 22).

The statue, portraying Alexander, a Toronto native who represented a Hamilton riding for 12 years from 1968 to 1980, is the first such sculpture for a Black politician in the Ontario Legislature.

Award-winning Toronto artist Quentin VerCetty, renowned for his artistic prowess, sculpted the bust, showcasing his commitment to capturing the essence of Alexander's remarkable legacy.

"In my opinion, he was one of the greatest Canadians," VerCetty told CBC Radio. Acknowledging Alexander's multifaceted contributions as a war veteran, lawyer, and community activist, VerCetty described the prestigious titles that defined the late politician's impactful life.

During his tenure as Lieutenant Governor from 1985 to 1990, Alexander broke barriers as the first Black person to hold a viceregal position in Canada. He continued his advocacy for Black Canadians throughout his 16-year chancellorship at the University of Guelph. Even after passing in 2012 at 90, Alexander's legacy endures.

Notably, the province officially designated January 21 as "Lincoln Alexander Day" in 2013, a recognition that resonated nationwide in 2015.

During a CBC Radio interview, VerCetty recalled a meaningful encounter with Alexander during his teenage years at Lincoln M. Alexander Secondary School in Malton. Despite initially not realizing the significance of the interaction, VerCetty shared how Alexander, recognizing the potential in him, offered words of encouragement. He said the encounter left a lasting impact on him; he later pursued academic success against the odds.

The Afrofuturism-inspired sculpture made by VerCetty integrates elements from various stages of Alexander's life. Blending history, science fiction, and fantasy, it seeks to tell the stories of Black communities and individuals. The sculpture also references Star Wars, a beloved science fiction series that Alexander enjoyed.

VerCatty said he hopes that those who encounter it will be inspired by Alexander's legacy to reflect on their potential for greatness.