The federal government will be replacing the Mary and Henry Bibb plaque that was stolen from a Windsor park in March.
Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk said the Environment Minister, responsible for Parks Canada agreed to pay for the replacement.
“The restoration of this plaque has tremendous importance for our community, and it is critical to honouring the remarkable story of Mary and Henry Bibb while preserving and sharing an important chapter in the rich, proud Black history of our region,” said Kusmierczyk.
Mary and Henry Bibb were designated national historic persons in 2002 as one of the country’s most influential couples of African descent in their time, including for their role in the development of the African Canadian community through their newspaper, “Voice of the Fugitive”.
"As abolitionists, journalists, leaders, and advocates for African-descended peoples, Henry and Mary Bibb left an indelible imprint on Canadian society that outlasted their lives by generations. The disappearance of the federal plaque recognizing them as Persons of National Historic Significance has been a painful episode for many members of our community, whether persons of African heritage or allies. The news of its replacement is a tremendous relief,” said Irene Moore Davis, President, Essex County Black Historical Research Society
The plaque will be installed this summer.
