Order of Nova Scotia Recipient Featured on Postage Stamp

An Order of Nova Scotia recipient is featured on a commemorative postage stamp for African Heritage Month.

The stamp, launched by Canada Post today, Feb. 1, will honour the achievements of Carrie Best of New Glasgow.

"Carrie Best was a strong voice and advocate for the African Nova Scotian community. I thank Canada Post for their recognition of this truly inspirational Nova Scotian," said African Nova Scotian Affairs Minister Percy Paris.

Ms. Best was a journalist, broadcaster, role model, and respected leader in the African Nova Scotian community. A pioneer in the fight for racial equality in the province, she founded the first African Nova Scotian-owned newspaper, The Clarion, in 1946. She promoted interracial understanding and goodwill, and championed the causes of all minorities.

"Through the power of her pen, Ms. Best made a difference in this province and paved the way for many African Nova Scotians who followed," said Lt.-Gov. Mayann Francis, chancellor of the Order of Nova Scotia. "Recognizing her achievements in this manner is a special way to celebrate her memory."

Ms. Best was named an officer of the Order of Canada in 1979 and was a recipient of the Order of Nova Scotia (posthumous) in 2002. She died in 2001.

Along with Ms. Best, a stamp featuring baseball great Fergie Jenkins of Ontario is also available.

Additional information about the stamps can be found on the Canada Post website at www.canadapost.ca .