Rosemary Sadlier, OOnt, MSW, BEd, is a social worker, educator, Black history scholar, bestselling author and social justice advocate whose work has helped shape public understanding and recognition of Black history in Canada for more than three decades. As President of the Ontario Black History Society for more than 20 years, she initiated and led the successful campaign for the national recognition of Black History Month and Emancipation Day in Canada, while advancing recognition of significant Black people, places and events.

She has led and served on numerous national and international boards and committees, including the committee that established the Lincoln Alexander Bust at Queen’s Park, the Canada Post Stamp Advisory Committee, the Mathieu Da Costa Awards and the Royal Commonwealth Society. She has received honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from the University of Toronto, Toronto Metropolitan University and OCAD University.

She is passionate about advancing equity, preserving and promoting Black history as an integral part of Canada’s history, and strengthening public understanding of the contributions and experiences of people of African descent in Canada.