Réjean Hébert

Réjean Hébert, born on September seventh, nineteen fifty-five, is a distinguished Canadian politician and geriatrician. He made his mark in the political landscape as a member of the National Assembly of Quebec, representing the riding of Saint-François. His political career took off with a narrow victory over the Quebec Liberal Party candidate Nathalie Goguen in the two thousand twelve election, a win that was solidified through a judicial recount on September fourteenth of the same year. Hébert served as the Minister of Health and Social Services under the government of Pauline Marois, showcasing his commitment to public health.

Before entering politics, Hébert held a prominent academic position as the dean of the School of Public Health at the Université de Montréal. His expertise in health policy and administration was instrumental in shaping his political agenda. In September two thousand nineteen, he was confirmed as the federal Liberal Party of Canada candidate for the Longueuil—Saint-Hubert electoral district, winning the nomination by acclamation, although he did not secure victory in the subsequent election.

Hébert's personal journey is as compelling as his professional one. He was married and had children before coming out as gay at the age of forty, becoming one of three openly gay members of the National Assembly during his tenure, alongside Sylvain Gaudreault and Agnès Maltais. His openness about his sexuality has contributed to the visibility and representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in Canadian politics.

In recognition of his contributions to society, Hébert was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada in two thousand twenty-three. He currently resides in Sherbrooke, Quebec, where he continues to be an influential figure in both health and politics.