OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 02/06/13 -- As part of Black History Month, all Canadians are invited to take part in recognizing the achievements of black Canadians who work in law enforcement, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today.

"Black Canadians have made significant contributions to all areas of Canadian life, and this year we are focusing our celebration on the contributions of past black pioneers and present leaders who have done so much to serve and protect our communities," said Minister Kenney, at the Canadian War Museum for the launch of Black History Month.

Among the participants at the event, Minister Kenney celebrated the attendance of Devon Clunis, who last year became Canada's first black Chief of Police. The Minister also recognized Lori Seale-Irving, who was the first black woman to become a commissioned officer in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

The launch event also provided an opportunity to honour the courage of one black Canadian hero who this past year went beyond the call of duty and heroically saved three lives in Ottawa. For his brave actions, Minister Kenney presented Abdulkadar Mohamed Dualeh with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal.

"These inspirational stories remind us of the significant contributions that black Canadians have made throughout our shared history," said Minister Kenney. "I encourage Canadians to celebrate Black History Month by participating in the many events that will take place across the country and by learning more about the law enforcement pioneers that we are honouring today."

Newly appointed Citizenship Judge and Guyana native, John Dennison, led the audience in a reaffirmation ceremony. The Canadian citizens in attendance got the chance to repeat the oath of citizenship and express their continued commitment to our great country.

Since 1995, Canada has celebrated the legacy of black Canadians every February as part of Black History Month.

To discover more stories and learn about the black community, visit the Black History Virtual Museum at cic.gc.ca/blackhistorymonth.

Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/CitImmCanada

A Photo of Minister Kenney will be available later today.

Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada's economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.