Albert Jackson (mail carrier)

Albert Jackson (1856-1918) was the first Black letter carrier in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. His appointment to the Toronto Post Office in 1882 sparked significant racial controversy and resistance from his white colleagues.

Born in Delaware, USA, Jackson's family fled enslavement via the Underground Railroad and settled in St. Catharines, Ontario. He later moved to Toronto and secured a position with the Post Office after passing the civil service exam.

Despite his qualifications, Jackson was met with intense racism. White postal workers refused to train him, actively sabotaged his work, and sought to have him dismissed. His supervisors, under pressure from the white workforce, attempted to remove him from his position, initially assigning him to menial tasks within the post office rather than allowing him to deliver mail.

News of Jackson's mistreatment reached the Black community and allies who rallied to his defense. Prominent figures, including politicians and community leaders, publicly protested his unfair treatment and demanded that he be given a fair opportunity to perform his duties.

After months of public pressure and advocacy, the government intervened and Jackson was finally assigned to a walking postal route. He performed his duties diligently and became a respected member of his community. He served as a letter carrier for over 36 years, overcoming the initial prejudice he faced and paving the way for future generations of Black Canadians in the postal service.

Jackson's story is a significant example of racial discrimination in late 19th-century Canada and the importance of community activism in fighting for equality.