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Many have heard of Harry Jerome, the Canadian track star who broke multiple word records and won a bronze Olympic medal after an amazing come back, but have you heard of his sisters Valerie and Carolyn? I'm sharing this thread to shed lights on some local #CanadianBlackHistory
You might think that the Jerome family would have been welcomed to BC, but this was not the case.
In 1951 a petition was made to ban the family from moving to North Vancouver because they were Black, and on their first day of school kids pelted them with rocks upon arrival.
In 1951 a petition was made to ban the family from moving to North Vancouver because they were Black, and on their first day of school kids pelted them with rocks upon arrival.
This didn't stop the Jeromes from pursuing an education and engaging in sport though. Harry continued to train and compete, and Valerie, his sister joined the track and field team as well and would go on to represent Canada in the Rome Olympics with her brother in 1960 at age 16.
Its hard to believe two siblings that faced harsh discrimination went on to have such impressive sports careers, its just as remarkable to think they both went on to become teachers and contribute to the #bced system that didnt protect them.
Amazingly, their sister, Carolyn also made history as one of the leading "Militant Mothers of Raymur" who protested against CN rail and the city of Vancouver to provide safe passage for children communiting to school.
This remarkable family has been showcased in local news for their outstanding contributions and I urge folx to keep learning more about them, their contributions, and their continued advocacy.
I will provide some links to learn more because #CanadianBlackHistory matters!
I will provide some links to learn more because #CanadianBlackHistory matters!
