Overview
A Legacy of Groundbreaking Journalism
In 1853, Mary Ann Shadd Cary broke barriers by founding The Provincial Freeman, becoming the first Black woman publisher in North America and the first woman publisher in Canada. Her pioneering spirit and unwavering commitment to supporting and advancing Black communities, education, and women’s rights through journalism laid the foundation for a more inclusive and just society. Founded on the principles exemplified by its namesake, the Mary Ann Shadd Cary Centre for Journalism and Belonging focuses on the critical intersections of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and socioeconomic status within journalism practice.
Today, we have the opportunity to honour Mary Ann Shadd Cary’s legacy and continue her vital work through the Mary Ann Shadd Cary Lecture Series, a new cornerstone initiative led by the and journalism faculty in Carleton University’s School of Journalism and Communication.
By establishing this lecture series, we aim to:
- Amplify misrepresented, underrepresented or marginalized voices in journalism
- Educate students, faculty, and the public on inclusive journalism practices
- Foster a more diverse and equitable media landscape in Canada
The Background
The Power of Representation
Each year, the Mary Ann Shadd Cary Lecture will feature prominent women and non-binary speakers from historically misrepresented or underrepresented communities, following in Shadd Cary’s footsteps. These lectures will:
- Inspire the next generation of diverse journalists and media leaders
- Provide critical insights on creating a more inclusive media environment
- Connect students with role models who bring classroom concepts to life
Each lecture will also be accompanied by an intimate practical workshop for journalism students led by the speaker in collaboration with journalism faculty.
The Rollout
Investing in the Future of Canadian Journalism
By supporting this annual lecture series, you will contribute to ensuring future generations of journalists have the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals who represent the full spectrum of Canadian society. Over four years your support will:
- Establish a permanent, annual event that celebrates diversity in journalism
- Fund an accompanying practical workshop for students in the journalism program
- Create a platform for discussing pressing issues in media representation
- Hire students to collaborate in the organization of the event
- Honour the legacy of a remarkable Canadian pioneer
The Impact
Join Us in Making History
We invite alumni, friends of the University, and champions of inclusive journalism to join us in making the Mary Ann Shadd Cary Lecture Series a reality. Your contribution will help shape the future of Canadian journalism, ensuring that diverse voices are heard, respected, and amplified for years to come.
Together, we can build on Mary Ann Shadd Cary’s vision, creating a more inclusive and just media landscape that truly represents all Canadians.
Other Comments
Illustration of Mary Ann Shadd Cary by Canadian Afrofuturist artist Adeyemi Adegbesan, also known as Yung Yemi.