Donald Oliver, a retired senator, lawyer, and co-founder of the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, passed away at the age of 86. Russell Grosse, CEO of the Black Cultural Centre, shared the news of Oliver’s demise on Wednesday, revealing that he lost his battle with cardiac amyloidosis. Grosse hailed Oliver as a trailblazer pivotal in establishing the center back in 1983 in Cherry Brook. Notably, Oliver’s passing coincided with the 42nd anniversary of the Black Cultural Centre.
Hailing from Wolfville, N.S., Oliver achieved a historic milestone in 1990 as the first Black man appointed to the Canadian Senate. Serving for 23 years until his retirement in 2013, Oliver garnered praise from Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston, who lauded his grace, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to inclusion and justice. The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia also commended Oliver for championing diversity, equity, and human rights during his tenure.
Reflecting on the significance of Oliver’s Senate appointment, Grosse emphasized the visibility and sense of belonging it brought to marginalized communities, underscoring the ongoing need for accelerated societal change. Despite battling cardiac amyloidosis since 2015 and defying a six-month life expectancy prognosis through experimental treatment, Oliver’s impact extended further as he was honored with appointments to the Order of Canada in 2019 and the Order of Nova Scotia in 2020. His memoir, “A Matter of Equality: The Life’s Work of Senator Don Oliver,” was published in 2021.
In an interview, Oliver expressed his determination to continue contributing despite his health challenges, highlighting his commitment to giving back. Grosse fondly remembered Oliver as a modest individual who prioritized the legacy of positive change he helped foster nationwide. A memorial service is set to take place on Saturday, September 27, at New Horizons Baptist Church in Halifax.
