The legacy of Althea Charles-Seaman, born in Dominica in 1938 and passing away in Montreal in 2013, is being commemorated in Canada through the dedication of a new park in her honor. Althea Seaman’s journey began as a teacher in Dominica before she ventured to Canada in 1959 as part of a program recruiting West Indian domestic workers. Despite facing initial challenges, she persevered, obtaining two university degrees from Concordia University, one in English Literature and the other in French studies. Her professional career spanned approximately twenty years in the telecommunications industry, but it was her exceptional community involvement that truly defined her impact.
In 1983, Althea Seaman founded the Association of the Black Community of Ville Laval, marking a significant milestone as the first association of its kind in Laval. Through this organization, she orchestrated various activities aimed at fostering unity among diverse communities. Additionally, Seaman dedicated her time as a volunteer and actively participated in numerous local community organizations, leaving an indelible mark on the societal fabric of Laval. Her unwavering commitment to community service was recognized in 2012 by the National Assembly of Quebec, and she was also bestowed with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her outstanding contributions.
The newly designated park, named the Althea Seaman Linear Park (Parc Linéaire Althea Seaman), stretches along the Boudrias watercourse in the Chomedey sector of Laval, symbolizing her enduring impact on the community. This honor, scheduled to be unveiled on February 28, 2024, is a testament to Althea Seaman’s dedicated service and profound influence. The announcement of this historic dedication coincides with Black History Month, amplifying the significance of her work organizing within the community.
As the former President of the Laval Black Community Association and the first female president of the Dominica Association in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, in 1979, Althea Seaman blazed new trails for future generations. This momentous occasion not only celebrates her individual achievements but also serves as a proud milestone in Canadian history, and for all Dominicans. Congratulations are in order to the late Althea Charles-Seaman and her family for this historic honor, which immortalizes her enduring legacy of community service and involvement.
WOW! What a stratospheric ascent by one of our very own! It shows that in spite of our diminutive geographical status, we’ve secured our place among nations in producing history makers who make distinctly sterling contributions to society beyond our national parameters. It’s just a pity that info on her place of birth and family background was virtually nil.