Yvonne Atwell, first Black woman elected in NS, recognized by the Legislature

HALIFAX – Today, a portrait of Yvonne Atwell, the first Black woman elected in Nova Scotia, has been added to the walls of the Legislature. The NDP caucus has actively encouraged the government for a number of years to take this step to recognize Atwell’s historic win.

“I am honoured to have my portrait added to Province House. When I was elected in 1998, it was a breakthrough, but it has taken far too long for other Black women to take their seats in this Legislature,“ said Atwell. “Political parties need to do a better job of encouraging African Nova Scotians to run for office. Even today the government is often not responsive to the needs of our community.”

Elected in 1998 as part of the NDP breakthrough, Atwell represented the district of Preston until the 1999 election. Atwell has a long history of activism and service in the African Nova Scotian community. In 1996 she ran for the leadership of the Nova Scotia NDP. Two years ago the NDP created the Yvonne Atwell Diversity in Leadership Fund, which provides financial support to candidates from diverse backgrounds.

“It is very significant that we will finally have a portrait of a Black woman on the wall in the legislature. This has been a long time coming. I am very proud that we are recognizing Yvonne’s contributions while she is alive and well. This is a good moment for our community,” said Suzy Hansen, NDP MLA for Halifax Needham. “It is notable to me that the first Black woman was elected in 1998, but it took 23 years for two more Black women to be elected to Province House. We need to see more diversity in the people who represent our province and I hope today helps inspire many young African Nova Scotian women to run for office.”

Atwell’s portrait will be displayed in the lobby of the Legislature, on the same wall with the portraits of former premiers.

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