As torontoyes notes, there were periods in the world’s history when dark-skinned people suffered from inappropriate treatment and inequality. Therefore, back then, they could only dream about occupying high positions.

However, time has passed and social-democratic changes have made the world a radically different place where dark-skinned people can get an education and exercise their rights equally.

Margarett Best is an African-Canadian woman. It didn’t prevent her from building a brilliant political career. Moreover, her role in the development of the province of Ontario, and Toronto in particular, is significant.

Holding high positions, Margarett took an active part in the promotion of reforms that were of great importance for the region.

In our article, we will tell you in more detail about the life and political path of Margarett Best, referring to centennialjournalism and thestar.com.

Study and passion

Although Margarett is a native of Jamaica, her entire life and professional activities are connected to Canada.

She graduated from the University of Toronto and Law School at York University.

As for her personal life, it is worth noting that she is a wonderful mother, who likes gardening and art. However, her real passion is writing.

Community work

Margarett is actively engaged in public work. She repeatedly organised seminars on entrepreneurship. Also, being a career consultant, she helped young people to choose and build their working paths.

In addition, Margarett is among the sponsors of PACE (Project for the Advancement of Childhood Education). She also created the Youth Career Fair.

When cases of youth use of firearms became more frequent in Canada, Margarett organised and dedicated the Youth Forum to this problem.

Politics

Margarett’s political career began in 2007 when the Legislative Assembly of Ontario officially elected her as a member.

In addition, she became the Minister of Health Promotion and Sports. Her competence included control over the prevention of chronic diseases, citizens’ physical activeness, as well as the prevention of injuries and mental health.

In 2008, Margarett introduced a law that prohibited smoking in cars if children were present. Its violation entails a fine imposition.

“The first woman”

In 2011, Margarett Best was re-elected as a member of the Legislative Assembly. Moreover, she managed to become the first African-Canadian woman to be re-elected to that body.

In addition, in the same year, Margarett took over the position of Minister of Consumer Services.

In her new political role, she drafted a bill that strengthened consumers’ protection relating to wireless communication contracts.

Also, Margarett took an active part in promoting the reform of the Condominium Act. In addition, she was involved in the process of writing amendments to the Not-for-Profit Business Corporations Act.

Reformer

Best is considered one of the active participants in promoting the reform of the Delegated Administrative Authorities Act. Also, she is the author of legislative initiatives protecting consumer rights.

Member of committees

Margarett was also a member of the Health Education and Social Policy Committee. She later joined the provincial Legislation and Regulation Committee.

Beginning of the end

In February 2013, Margarett got a new position. She became a parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Education.

Later, there was information that she asked to reduce the list of her duties due to certain health problems (details remained unknown).

On June 27, 2013, Margarett announced that she was leaving the post of a Member of Provincial Parliament.

Photo sources: cbc.ca, thestar.com