In observation of Black History Month, Canada Post has released new stamps to honour two black Canadians – one of whom being Vancouver's own Seraphim "Joe" Fortes.
Fortes moved to Vancouver from Trinidad and Tobago in 1885 and took up residence in a tent in English Bay, becoming an unofficial volunteer lifeguard. He is believed to have saved more than 100 lives.
When he died, he was given the largest-ever publicly funded funeral. Today, Fortes is still remembered around the city in many ways. Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House restaurant, the Joe Fortes Branch of the Vancouver Public Library and a fountain in his memory in Alexandra Park all pay tribute to the beloved Vancouverite.
The other Canadian being honoured with his own stamp is Montreal's Oliver Jones, a jazz musician in the 1920s through to the 1940s.
Black History Month is celebrated every February to observe the legacy of black Canadians, past and present.
"As Canadians, it's important to remember those who came before us, and the sacrifices they made to help build the country we have today," said Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism. "Central to our history and how we built our great democracy is the important contributions of Canadians of African and Caribbean descent."
