Devo Brown on exploring his Dad's journey to Canada through P.E.I

For those of you who don't know Devo Brown, he is one of Canada's best media personalities who has kept his career going for a long time.   You can see him on TV across the country and follow him on twitter @devobrown .   We hope his story inspires you to learn something about your own family history.

Why did you decide to trace your Dad's journey ? 

I was headed to PEI for a work trip. I remembered the stories my folks would tell me about their short time there. Especially the part of the story where my dad would say: "We came as refugees from Africa,  we were asked where we would want to go in Canada - Toronto, Vancouver or Prince Edward Island? I said to your mother, I want to live on an island!" So I thought, I wanna see their first stop in Canada...be a part of their history - which is also my history. 

What is your relationship with your Dad like?

Incredible. He's been my biggest role model, teacher, mentor and best friend. He disciplined me as a kid (and still does!) but also was understanding. I was a bit of a wild card, but he saw that and not only allowed me to become the man I am today - but he helped me along the way.

What did you learn?  What were you surprised about?

I saw the place they first stayed. It was a motel complex and it still exists - completely reno'd of course. People would look at it like some ghetto spot, but the way my folks described it...it was a resort to them! They also met some very nice people. The thing that surprised me so much was that, these people still remembered them - maybe cuz my folks were the first brown people they ever met? Or that the local paper did a story on the 'refugees' coming to town - not negative...just a news story for small town Summerside. Or was it because they were sweet, excited, smart, ambitious immigrants who really captured the attention's of people who met them. That last one wasn't a question. Haha, they really were memorable. But, the feeling was mutual. My folks, who forget the major celebs I've told them I've interviewed this week, can clearly recall their time in PEI 40 years ago.

Why was it important for you learn/take this trip at this point in your life.

I wish I could've done this sooner and with them. Who knows, perhaps we can go together in the future. The fact I was able to connect with a couple who my folks still talk about to this day and I was able to thank them was incredible. I thanked them for their East Coast hospitality. I thanked them for opening their home, hearts, minds and lives to people who were complete strangers. People who they, seemingly, had absolutely nothing in common with and still treated them as friends...and most importantly, thanked them for treating this scared young couple who arrived in a new country with respect. It's these people who created the love affair my folks have with this country. 

What would you advise/tell people about understanding their roots within this country?

Talk to people. Everyone has a story...and man, it could be a pretty dang cool story. I got to learn about my own family's history & discuss it with my folks. That is something I am grateful for. As cliche as it sounds...knowing about your past, can only help your future.

THANKS FOR SHARING DEVO BROWN 

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