Brock University Support Staff

History

Observed annually on March 21, it commemorates the day police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid “pass laws” in 1960.

From: The Government of Canada, Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat, website

What is racial discrimination

Racial discrimination refers to the practice of treating people differently or unjustly because of their race, ethnic origin, skin colour, language or religion. It can also be systemic, meaning that the discrimination has been built into the structures and institutions of society. This type of discrimination is often more subtle and harder to identify, but it can have significant impacts on the lives of Indigenous peoples and racialized and religious minority communities.

Racial discrimination can take place anywhere in your daily life, including in the workplace, housing, education, and healthcare, and extends to racial profiling by law enforcement and even hate crimes.

From: The Government of Canada, Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat, website

How you can fight racism, discrimination, and xenophobia in Canada

1. Educate yourself and others about the history and ongoing issues of racism, discrimination, and xenophobia in Canada to increase awareness and understanding of these issues. Check out this podcast to learn how cognitive biases can perpetuate systemic racism: Eh Sayers Season 2, Episode 1 – Created Equal.
2. Speak out against racism, discrimination, and xenophobia when you encounter it. This can be done by calling out racist or discriminatory behavior and language, and by standing in solidarity with those who are being targeted.
3. Support Indigenous peoples and racialized and religious minority communities by listening to and amplifying their voices, and by supporting organizations and initiatives that work towards racial equality.
4. Encourage anti-racism and racial equality, in all areas of life, including in the workplace, schools, and communities, and promote policies and initiatives that support these values.

From: The Government of Canada, Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat, website