Our mission and vision is to further the work and ideals of Canada Lee, and of Frances Lee Pearson. In the process, we hope America and the world will rediscover Canada Lee’s exemplary achievements as a great artist and human being. In 1942, Canada Lee was hailed by theatre critic, Brooks Atkinson of The New York Times, “Mr. Lee is certainly the best Negro actor of his time, as well as one of the best actors in this country.” Canada was no stranger to brilliant feats, having excelled as a musician and as an athlete before becoming hooked on acting. In his lifetime, he achieved many firsts including becoming the first black actor of the 1940’s to headline on Broadway in a major dramatic role. Canada chose to use his continuing success to break down barriers, blazing a trail along with his contemporary, Paul Robeson, for many others to follow, including Sidney Poitier, Dorothy Dandridge, Ossie Davis, and Denzel Washington. Canada’s humanitarian work and outspoken fight against injustice led to him becoming a target of McCarthyism in the late 1940’s. While he courageously stood his ground and refused to give in to the malicious manipulation and character assassination, the stress took a toll on his health. In May 1952, at the age of 45, Canada died and the public memory of his accomplishments eventually faded away. www.CanadaLee.org www.canadaleedoc.com