Back in 2020, a serious conversation started, at all levels of government in Canada, following the death of George Floyd in the United States, about racial discrimination and how changes can be made to make communities, provinces and countries more inclusive for all peoples.
While it was an important conversation to have at the time, I don’t think we’re really finished having this conversation. While it may be an uncomfortable topic for some people, I think the topic of battling discrimination and finding ways to make the world more accepting and inclusive is one which needs to continue to be had.
I think, at this time, every politician should consider the question of comparing where we were in 2020 on this issue, to where we are at now, and what we still need to do to support inclusive communities. This is especially important, given we have municipal and provincial elections upcoming, and marginalized groups deserve to have their issues heard and addressed.
Looking at the ever-expanding diversity of people in the Region of Durham and Kawartha Lakes, governments and municipal organizations should be finding ways to encourage or make it easier for more diverse voices to run for a local council seat, or to become an MPP.
Education and consultations should continue in the fight against anti-Black racism in Canada.
While I acknowledge there have been steps taken, by all levels of government, regarding reconciliation with Canada’s Indigenous Peoples, the government still needs to work to end all boil-water advisories on First Nation reserves. There also needs to be more done to address violence against Indigenous Women and Girls.
I understand as a Caucasian (White) male I’m not in any way a visible minority. But, I think tackling racism and discrimination is something which is the responsibility of every citizen in the country, as it is all about a societal attitude change.
In a column in 2020, I stated I believe every person should be viewed and treated as a unique individual and not categorized. I still believe that. And, what also hasn’t changed since I wrote that column is, I still believe the conversation needs to continue across Canada about racism and inclusivity.