Over the past few weeks we have seen anti-racism protests and vigils held all over the world - including here in Jasper.
Now we can look at ways to turn that momentum into real change.
Social media activism isn't enough to address injustices plaguing our society today, and we now, more than ever, need to practice what we preach.
This week I read Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People About Race, a 2017 book by British writer Reni Eddo-Lodge.
I must admit, even as somebody who has always considered themselves anti-racist, this book made me feel ignorant, a little embarrassed, and opened my eyes to my own privilege. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Prejudice can be found where many least expect it – at the heart of respectable society.
In Canada, black Canadians make less annual income, are more likely to be unemployed and nearly twice as likely to be considered low-income than non-racialized Canadians.
In 2018, black Canadians were more likely than any other racial group in Canada to be the victims of a hate crime, according to data reported by police.
And a report by the Ontario Human Rights Commission found that while black people made up only 8.8 per cent of Toronto’s population in 2016, they were involved in seven out of 10 cases of fatal shootings by police.
The report also found that black people (and specifically black men) were overrepresented in everything from investigations into use of force and sexual assault by police, to inappropriate or unjustified searches and charges.
This systematic racism is a problem around the world and these recent demonstrations have shown real passion for change.
But what can we, personally, do about it?
Beyond specific Black Lives Matter organizations, there are many ways we can support the anti-racist movement sweeping the globe.
We can educate ourselves (and others) by watching a documentary, reading a book, or listening to a podcast. The documentary 13th on Netflix is a good eye-opener on racism in the States, and my next read will be The Skin We’re In by Desmond Cole - a book that documents one year of racism and resistance in Canada.
You could use your platform on social media to speak up for what you believe in, call out your colleague or that person in the bar when they make a racist remark - and write to your MP when you witness injustice.
There are petitions to be signed and civil rights organizations to donate money to - as well as black artists and writers who need your support.
There is a long road ahead of us but our society could be on the cusp of change, let’s do what we can to be allies.
Fuchsia Dragon
