The candidacy of Dr. Leslyn Lewis is a historic moment for our party. A business leader, a lawyer, an activist, a mother, and, yes, because she is a woman of colour. Her candidacy is celebrated and honoured by me and should be celebrated by every member of our Party, 1/5

regardless of who you support. Last week I was thrilled to receive the endorsement of the Association of Black Conservatives. I was honoured and humbled to receive it. Over the past few days watching the back and forth, I realize that this endorsement has caused disunity 2/5

both within our Party and within the greater Black community. For me, nothing – not even an endorsement – is worth disunity in our Party and for this reason, I cannot accept this endorsement and encourage the association to work with all verified candidates. Engaging the 3/5

Black community and other communities in Canada that have largely not traditionally supported our Party is going to be key to our path towards electoral victory. I invite all Conservatives who believe in my True Blue message, regardless of the colour of your skin, to join 4/5

me on our mission. I look forward to working with Dr. Lewis and all members of our Party who are active in the Black and other communities to take back Canada! 5/5