Viola Desmond: A Canadian Hero

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Questions and Answers

Where did Viola Desmond's act of resistance take place?

Toronto

Halifax

Montreal

New Glasgow (correct)

Viola Desmond’s actions were immediately accepted and praised by everyone at the time.

False

What year did Viola Desmond refuse to leave the main-floor seating area?

1946

Viola Desmond’s actions contributed to the repeal of segregation laws in Nova Scotia by _____

1954 Signup and view all the answers

What was the main impact of Viola Desmond's resistance?

Raising awareness about systemic racism Signup and view all the answers

Match the following events with their significance:

Viola Desmond's defiance = Highlighted systemic racism in Canada Repeal of segregation laws = A direct result of Desmond's case Influence on civil rights movement = Inspired further action for equality Desmond's legacy = Continues to promote discussions on race and equality Signup and view all the answers

What did Viola Desmond's actions inspire in terms of legislation across Canada?

Anti-discrimination legislation Signup and view all the answers

Viola Desmond’s actions played no role in shifting public perceptions about segregation.

False Signup and view all the answers

What was the main reason Viola Desmond is considered one of Canada's greatest heroes?

She stood up against segregation Signup and view all the answers

Viola Desmond was arrested for refusing to pay the full ticket price for a movie.

True Signup and view all the answers

What event sparked a national dialogue about equality in Canada?

Viola Desmond's refusal to leave her seat in the 'whites-only' section. Signup and view all the answers

Viola Desmond's act of defiance occurred at the _____ Theatre.

Roseland Signup and view all the answers

What effect did Viola Desmond's actions have on Canadian society?

They inspired anti-discrimination laws Signup and view all the answers

Viola Desmond was born in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia.

False Signup and view all the answers

What did Viola Desmond's refusal to vacate her seat expose in Canadian society?

Systemic racism. Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their definitions:

Bravery = Courage in facing pain or adversity Resilience = Ability to recover quickly from difficulties Systemic racism = Institutional policies that discriminate against a racial group Equality = The state of being equal, especially in status and rights Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Viola Desmond: A Canadian Hero

A significant figure in shaping Canada's values and inspiring change
Defined by bravery, resilience, and commitment to improving society
A pioneering figure in Canada's civil rights movement, challenging racial segregation in 1946
Her actions exposed systemic racism and ignited a movement for equality
A pivotal catalyst for legal and societal change
Her courage directly led to changes in Canadian laws and attitudes and anti-discrimination policies nation-wide

Desmond's Act of Defiance

Occurred at the Roseland Theatre in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia
Refused to leave her seat in the "whites-only" section
Falsely arrested and charged with tax evasion (used to conceal racial discrimination)
Her act of defiance exposed systemic racism at the theatre
Brought attention to inherent racism in Canadian society and practices
Led to critical discussions on equality and discrimination.
Her resistance made the theatre a symbol of systemic injustices.

Societal Changes Inspired by Desmond

Her case fueled the repeal of segregation laws in Nova Scotia (by 1954).
Fueled further anti-discrimination legislation across the country.
Inspired change in public perception and laws concerning equality and inclusion
Shows how individual courage can spark significant societal progress

Desmond's Influence on Civil Rights

Her act of defiance in 1946 preceded Rosa Parks's iconic stand in the U.S. by three years.
Pre-empted the U.S. movement for racial equality in Canada
Her actions challenged norms and forced Canadians to confront disparities faced by Black citizens
Not only changed laws, but also influenced societal perceptions
Pioneered for equality and justice in Canada

Lasting Impact of Desmond's Actions

Brought systemic racism into the public spotlight
Exposed embedded discrimination within Canadian society
Prompted national discussions surrounding race and equality
Direct cause of positive changes in Canadian laws following her courage
An inspiration for future movements and change agents.

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Description

Explore the life and legacy of Viola Desmond, a significant figure in Canada's civil rights movement. Her courageous act of defiance in 1946 not only challenged racial segregation but also sparked a national conversation on equality and justice. Learn how her actions led to pivotal changes in Canadian laws and attitudes towards racism.