"Black Canadian" refers to individuals of African descent who are citizens or residents of Canada. This group includes people with diverse backgrounds, such as those whose ancestors were enslaved, immigrants from the Caribbean, and more recent arrivals from Africa. Black Canadians contribute to the cultural, social, and economic fabric of the country. The history of Black Canadians dates back to the early 1600s, with significant communities forming in places like Nova Scotia and Ontario. Notable figures include Viola Desmond, a civil rights activist, and Lincoln Alexander, the first Black Member of Parliament in Canada. Their contributions have shaped the nation's identity and history.