My Life

For a boy growing up in Jamaica in the 1940s, going to school was not a given. Colonialism, colourism, and classism created educational barriers for anyone who wasn't rich or white. But from these early struggles, Howard Palmer devoted his career to education, even earning a PhD.

This memoir covers the challenges and joys of Dr. Palmer's life, from his family and Jamaican upbringing, his immigration to Canada in the 1960s, his lifelong educational pursuits and raising his daughters after the tragic death of his wife. He also shares his insightful research into how Ontario's educational system was failing Black boys-findings that are sadly still relevant today.

By sharing his story, Dr. Palmer hopes to encourage readers to examine their own personal journeys and gain a deeper understanding of persisting against the odds. My Life is a thorough, honest, and inspirational story of a Jamaican Canadian man overcoming obstacles through faith and determination.