[Eric]

The history of colonization and slavery has left a lasting impact on societies, including Canada. Historical injustices and systemic discrimination have created a foundation for the persistence of racism

[Judith]

Addressing anti-Black racism requires a comprehensive and sustained effort at various levels, including legislative, institutional, and societal. It involves promoting education, fostering inclusivity, challenging systemic inequalities, and actively working to dismantle discriminatory practices. Community engagement, allyship, and ongoing dialogue are essential components of creating lasting change.

[Mohamedfayaz]

Anti-black racism still exists in Ontario and the rest of Canada because of historical factors and institutional racism. Black communities have faced a lot of discrimination and unequal treatment in various sectors ie. schools, and workplaces.

[Alexandra]

It exists because it is woven into the fabric of our culture and institutions. What a complex question. It’s odd, but the world even one or two hours outside of Major Cities in Canada is a completely different landscape and country in terms of demographics and lived experience. I think in most small towns and Cities across Ontario and in other parts of the country, blackness is still see and felt as ‘otherness’, strange, different, dangerous, and all of the other explicit and implicit biases that media and pop-culture have associated with Black youth and persons. Ignorance is rampant, racism and bigotry hardly veiled… We can call them “Hicks”, but it doesn’t change the fact that by and large, most places in Canada are not very inviting to black people and a lot of other minorities and ethnicities. Until our laws, social justice systems, education curriculum and media reflect the needs and issues of black persons equally and organically, there will always be anti-black racism present. When citizens, voting public, lobbyists, banks and investors let policy makers and law enforcement know that they will not turn a blind eye and tolerate inequality and racist behavior, there is little that can be done to change institutional biases. When it becomes less profitable to continue to marginalize and discriminate against BIPOC, policies and laws will change. I also think that education really is the root of democracy and the more access to education and opportunities BIPOC have, the more access to money and influence will follow. Politics and policies follow money and invested interests. This is my two cents and a small bite of a hugely complex issue. Education = less ignorance = less complicity.

[Dennis]

I believe anti-black racism still exists in Ontario because of historical factors like the long-lasting impact of colonialism, which contributes to ongoing issues such as racial profiling, economic disparities, and a lack of representation in positions of influence.

[Yushu]

One of the reasons that anti-black racism is still a problem in Ontario and the rest of Canada is that institutional racism and history legacy still impacts black community. When talking about racism, people might often think about anti-black racism in the United States. They might not consider it as an issue in Canada. There is limited research data on anti-black racism and it needs to inform the public.

[Salma]

Anti-Black Racism continues to be a huge problem in Ontario as Black communities in Ontario, as well as the rest of Canada have faced racial inequalities. The black community faces a lot of unequal treatment and discrimination due to the colour of their skin. For example, they have faced an enormous amount of unequal treatment in their school, as well as their place of employment.

[Sarah]

As mentioned in the module lectures, Canadians tend to assume that they live in a “tolerant, multicultural society” which is incompatible with the reality that Anti-Black racism still occurs in Ontario as well as the rest of Canada. Global and country-wide events can highlight the presence of ABR in Canada, such as how the Black community was the most disproportionately affected by the pandemic, but these temporary bursts of awareness are up against systemic lack of education regarding Anti-Black Racism in schools as well as downplaying or erasing Black contributions to Canadian history.

Learning about racism and slavery in school is framed through more of an
American lens, where Canadian contributions to slavery or racism are
downplayed. An example is how the educational system highlights how Canada was the final
destination of the Underground Railroad, representing freedom, yet no one teaches students about how conditions were so dire for Black people
upon reaching Canada that many returned to the States.

Constant comparisons of the Canadian cultural climate to the United States, where Anti-Black Racism is more openly displayed, can also lead Canadians to believe that racism is not present in Ontario or the rest of Canada because it is not displayed as openly or discussed as often as in the States, not realizing that Anti-Black Racism shows up in Ontario in different and sometimes more subtle (yet still systemic) ways. This helps to perpetuate the idea that racism could not possibly exist in a country that claims to be tolerant of all cultures, because “at least we aren’t as bad as the States.”

[Alison]

There are two sides to this. Those who have been affected might feel so traumatized that it is hard for them to talk about it and raise awareness. When global events occur like the unfortunate turn of events for George Floyd, then it gives the space and the opportunity for those who tend to shy away from speaking up (but also the opportunity for those who are vocal). Rightfully so, it is important to hear stories to help educate ourselves on what is going on around the world. The other side is those who have never been affected by racism, or not to the same extend as black racism. For this group of people, the lack of education doesn’t help the situation. It is also important to keep in mind that this group of people may not be intentionally choosing to ignore anything, but that they perhaps don’t understand the seriousness and effects it can have. Therefore, while there isn’t one answer, these are some reasons why. It is important for all of us to take a part in moving forward together. It is important to connect in communities like this to learn about what things we didn’t know we needed to know.

[Diana]

I think one of the contributing factors that we see racial inequities and anti-Black racism is due to the attempt to erase Black spaces in not just Ontario, but the rest of Canada. We see this in our education systems where students are not taught the history of anti-Black racism, colonialism, and slavery. We also see the myth that anti-Black racism only exists in the US. If there is “no anti-Black racism” here in Canada, we do not need to address it. If it is out of sight, it is out of mind.

[Lauren]

Anti-Black racism is still a problem in Ontario because there is a lack of accountability and action to recognize, address, educate about and reconcile the barriers and challenges experienced by the Black community. This is perpetuated by the silencing and invalidation of Black experiences and the continuation of socio-economic factors that oppress Black people and prevent them from thriving. Acknowledging that the socio-political inequities seen in the justice and political system in the USA, are also prevalent in the Canadian systems is an integral first step to breaking a harmful system and rebuilding one that is equitable and supports the success of all citizens. Furthermore, we also must call attention to the gaslighting that occurs in sectors like education and social services where equity-based work seems prevalent, with minimal actionable items in place. Finally, we as individuals must remain reflective, to ensure we are in a place to continuously learn from those at the center of oppression and inequity and be willing to leverage our privilege and make changes to our ways of living to ensure we can actively support members of the Black community to heal and thrive, as dictated by members of the Black community themselves.

[Nicole]

I think the point made in the lecture about cognitive dissonance plays heavily into why anti-black racism is still an issue-Canadians have a very strong self (and international) perception of being peaceful, tolerant and progressive-how could we be anti-black racists? Add on the layer of comparison to racism in the US and it can be very hard for Canadians to see themselves as actually supporting the same ideologies and harmful outcomes.

[Marie-Eve]

As many others on this thread, I also feel that Canadians’ lack of both awareness and/or accountability is one of the root causes of Anti-Black racism in Ontario (and across Canada). As per the lecture given by Dr. Andrea A. Davis, there is a challenge for many Canadians to face that the illusion of a multicultural democratic nation they’ve been fed since they were a child is actually a system that perpetuates racism and inequalities.

I also think many Canadians refuse to review their understanding of allyship. I personally found the definitions of white
saviors, white apologists, white allies, and white folks in solidarity with anti-racism extremely insightful. It’s normal that many individuals approach allyship from the lens of their own experiences, but a willingness to understand what allyship looks, sounds, and feels like from the perspective of Black youth is a necessary shift to dismantle White supremacy.

Lastly, the deafening silence from many Canadians is definitely a contributing factor to Anti-Black racism in Ontario. The following statement struck a chord with me: “White people
committed to racial justice need to be willing to give up the very thing that whiteness has promised them, connection
and kinship, whether to white people or to Black, Indigenous, and racially-oppressed populations.” I am able to recognize and take accountability for instances where I chose silence for the sake of connection and kinship in the past. This is simply unacceptable moving forward – for myself and all Canadian citizens.

[Alejandra]

I believe that Anti-Black racism is still a problem in Ontario because most people does not identify the issue. A high percentage of the population does not believe that racism hasn’t been overcome .

[Sanja]

Yes, I agree with this. But even in such a multicultural environment that we live in, to date many communities are still left without a voice.

[Alison]

Yes, without knowing there is the issue or without knowing the extent of the issue, people may not be inclined to educate themselves or do anything about it. One may also feel that they are only one person and can’t change the world. But imagine if nobody had this mindset? When more people believe in the same thing i.e. equality, equity and justice for all, we can move faster towards a world where racism doesn’t exist.

[Jewelle]

Anti-Black Racism infuses and upholds many instructions and structures that Canadians rely on to be successful. Giving up access to or hopes for that success, the security and acceptance that comes with it, is unlikely. You are more likely to reject that pathway if you feel that it has already rejected you. Canadians want to be comfortable. People in Western nations really want to be comfortable, but Canadians in particular. It’s uncomfortable to come out with their racism like in the States, but also very uncomfortable to give it up. Certainly, there are some people who specifically hate blacks. But I think most don’t want to recognize or challenge anti-Black racism because it’s inconvenient, unsettling and threatening, psychologically, emotionally, and socially.

[Kathleen]

I agree with this 100%. Speaking specifically from an education perspective, it’ is easy to look around a number of schools in my area and wonder where/why there are not more BIPOC educators. However, how can we expect someone directly oppressed by a system to grow up and want to engage or feel they can have meaningful participation within that system.

[David]

I believe one reason anti-Black racism still exists in Ontario is the lack of proper education about the historical roots of racism in Canada. The history of slavery, discrimination, and broken promises that were taught in these modules were never taught, at least to me, in high school. We learned about racism and slavery from an American perspective so it becomes less relevant in our minds. I think with proper education, more people would start considering things such as intersectionality because it helps puts our current world in the proper context. I think this would help more young people realize that racism exists in Canada and would push them to work towards dismantling the systems that keep it around.

[Annie]

Indeed, black history was and is still for the most part not taught in our schools other than slavery. Unfortunately, up until the video of the brutal killing of George Floyd, many people where still very unaware of the injustices and iniqueties that exist in our society. As though if we don’t talk about it, there is no problem. People are afraid to offend and have to live uncomfortable situations, whether with colleagues, family members or parents of students, so they would rather turn a blind eye to the situation. And, if confronted, the priviliged become defensive and listen to respond rather than listen to understand. I think it’s important to create safe spaces in our work places to be able to address issues and learn from each other in order to benefit from what diversity and inclusion has to offer.

[Christina]

I just completed the course work and have so many ideas floating around in my mind. I feel as though anti-Black racism is still prevalent in Ontario due to a variety of reasons (many already listed in this discussion board). Overall I feel society does not want to change or challenge status quo, power structures in place, racist systems and policies and so on. At times it can feel as though we are taking steps forward in progress but then at the same time feel as though nothing has really changed. A lot of times even when you work for an agency with anti-Black racism policies and practices in place that is not always the case with other agencies you refer to or are connected with, this can put large barriers in place for both staff and the service users we support. There is still a lot of work left to be done in Ontario and Canada has a whole to dismantle oppressive systems and practices.

[Teja]

I believe that Anti-Black Racism is still prevalent in Ontario because most efforts used to dismantle Anti-Black Racism negate addressing the root causes of this issue. For example, students may be taught that marginalized communities are often subjected to mistreatment systemically, such as within the employment sector, and academic sector which is a great start, but without addressing that white supremacy and white privilege are key factors that affect the maltreatment of Black Individuals, it will be hard to effectively make positive changes in mitigating Anti-Black Racism. Therefore, I think to decrease the prevalence of Anti-Black Racism I strongly believe that there needs to be teachings surrounding how white people benefit from Anti-Black Racism and how these narratives surrounding black individuals being labelled as subordinate inadvertently affect white individuals positively. Additionally, I also think there is a lack of resources available to black individuals that would help them navigate society cohesively by acknowledging the issues that are prevalent in Black communities.

[Elah]

Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched in the institutions and policies in Canada and Ontario which are meant to reflect and reinforce harmful beliefs, attitudes, prejudice, stereotyping and discrimination of people of African descent. These policies are meant to both maintain Whiteness as a dominant worldview and also continue to further subjugate and marginalize BIPOC communities. Social welfare programs that are rooted in Western ideologies do not adequately address the structural barriers that are produced by racism and White supremacy. These ideologies place the individual person as the cause of their problem rather than viewing it as a symptom of a much larger and societal imbalance. What’s more, individual experiences are embedded within these larger systems that hold individuals responsible for unjust experiences and the root cause of the issue (racism and Whiteness) is left unchecked. Whiteness is seen as the norm but because it is embedded in every kind of institution it will never meet the needs of those who don’t benefit from it. White supremacy and Western Eurocentric worldviews need to be interrupted in order for racial oppression to be ameliorated.

[Justin]

I agree with your assessment that anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched in the institutions and policies in Canada and Ontario. It is a systemic issue that has been perpetuated for centuries, and it continues to have a devastating impact on the lives of Black people. The fact that social welfare programs rooted in Western ideologies do not adequately address the structural barriers produced by racism and White supremacy is a testament to the depth of the problem. These programs often place the blame on individuals for their own circumstances, rather than acknowledging the role that systemic racism plays in creating and maintaining those circumstances. When Black people are disproportionately impacted by poverty, unemployment, and incarceration, it is not because they are inherently inferior or lazy. It is because they face systemic barriers to success and over time these systems can take a toll on the individual psyche which impacts their worldview.

Hopefully, we will get this sorted out so as to create a more just and equitable society for all, though it will take a sustained effort from everyone involved.

[Samuel]

Because many people refuse to check their behaviors. If they do, they can easily find blind spots where microaggressions and unconscious biases hide. So they don’t see the need to change. they don’t even know they need to change harmful behaviors.

[Kiranjyot]

Anti-Black racism in Ontario endures because of a legacy of colonialism, slavery, and discrimination that has left lasting imprints on the province’s institutions and society. Systemic biases in education, employment, and criminal justice continue to disadvantage Black communities. Moreover, the lack of comprehensive anti-racism policies and persistent stereotypes contribute to the ongoing problem, necessitating continued efforts to dismantle racism and promote equity.

[Justin]

I agree with you that anti-Black racism in Ontario endures because of a legacy of colonialism, slavery, and discrimination. You know, systemic biases in education, employment, and criminal justice continue to disadvantage Black communities. Moreover, the lack of comprehensive anti-racism policies and persistent stereotypes contribute to the ongoing problem.

It is important to remember that anti-Black racism is not just a problem that affects Black people. It is a problem that affects all of us. When Black people are denied opportunities and treated unfairly, it undermines our entire society. In terms of education, this systemic bias can lead to lower graduation rates and limited access to quality schools for Black students. In employment, it has resulted in higher unemployment rates and limited career advancement opportunities for Black individuals. Additionally, within the criminal justice system, we have seen how it leads to disproportionate arrests, harsher sentencing, and a lack of trust between law enforcement and Black communities. These issues highlight the urgent need for comprehensive anti-racism policies that address these systemic biases and work towards creating a more equitable society for all.

[Helori]

While I do not live in Ontario, and can agree that Anti-Black racism is still an important issue that is being faced across Canada. I can only speak from my own own observations in New-Brunswick, but erasure is one of the main forms of racism I have noticed, specifically as a form of curriculum violence. Throughout all my academic experiences, we have never had a focused lesson on Black culture and history in Canada. If so, it was mainly to speak about slavery in the United States, not in Canada. I find myself embarrassed believing the false stories I was told, such as Canada not having slavery and that the conditions were much better here in Canada compared to the States. I wish I would have questioned and challenged more the way we were taught Black history.

I think this is a also a big reason Anti-Black Racism is still an issue across Canada. Erasure, false claims and a lack of awareness of Black realities and history.

[Justin]

I am moved by what you have shared, and I totally agree with your statement. Erasure, false claims, and a lack of awareness of Black realities and history are all major contributors to anti-Black racism in Canada.

It is important to remember that Canada has a long and complex history of slavery and racism. Black people have been here since the beginning, but their contributions have often been ignored or erased. This erasure has a real and lasting impact on Black people and on Canadian society as a whole.

When Black history and culture are not taught in schools, it sends the message that Black people are not important or that their experiences are not valid. This can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and anger. It can also make it difficult for Black people to build a sense of community and identity. I think we are seeing that play out in the Black communities through internalized racism and its many manifestations.

[Rolland]

I wish I could say Ontario has made more progress against anti-Black racism, but the harsh truth is it remains deeply entrenched in our province. And if we’re being really honest with ourselves, we know why.

It’s because racism doesn’t just disappear on its own – it hides in our institutions, our subconscious minds, and our resistance to change. We can’t just will it away with good intentions. Meaningful change requires hard work – at both a systemic and personal level.

We need to speak up when we see racial bias and barriers in our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods. We need to reflect on our own privilege and unconscious biases. We need to get uncomfortable having the tough conversations about race. And we need to keep advocating for equality and inclusion until they are a reality for all. I am as guilty as the next person for not doing these things when I see racism.

This won’t happen overnight. But if we don’t give up – through all the frustrations and setbacks – we can chip away at systemic racism. Our voices and actions matter, more than we know. But we need to stay consistent, and challenge ourselves to see the humanity in each other.

None of this is easy. But if we want a just society, we must do the work. Our kids are watching, our communities are hurting, and we owe it to them to keep pushing for change.

[Justin]

I agree with you that anti-Black racism in Ontario remains deeply entrenched. It is a complex problem with a long history, and it will not be solved easily. But I am hopeful that we can create a more just and equitable society for all if we work together. Also, it is important to remember that we all have a role to play in dismantling racism. We can all speak up when we see racial bias and barriers, and we can all reflect on our privilege and unconscious biases. We should continue to push to have these uncomfortable, and sometimes tough conversations about race and advocating for equality and inclusion.

I know that it is not always easy to challenge racism. It can be difficult to know what to say or how to respond. But it is important to remember that our voices and actions matter. We can all make a difference.

Thank you for your commitment to anti-racism. I am inspired by your words and your passion.

[Rolland]

Thank you for your reply, Justin. I agree with your position, especially around the need to engage in tough conversations. There is so much to learn so let’s be respectful with one another as we keep pushing for understanding and action.

[Keer]

What is anti-black racism in Canada and beyond I remember many decades ago crossing LRT stations in Calgary Alberta. After a while Police officer stopped me and asked. Why are you crossing the LRT every day in the morning? I shared that is it a crime for a youth black student to cross the LRT. He responded complied with my Q where are you going? I resisted not answering his question! A moment later he asked me to give him my personal identification. I refused and shared, at last, do I look suspicious to you? If not and the conversation went on until he lets me go. The reason I brought up my personal experience is that no matter whether changes will occur in Canada or else anti-Black racism is still an issue in this era.

Growing up in North East Africa in a rural, white community mixture with Arabs racism is a huge concern among Arabs African decants. When that white police stopped me I know exactly what it was in his mind looking at the same town now, where immigration has increased drastically and there are now more immigrants challenging the white communities in that town. The world is upside down and we as black Africans must remain vigilant and stand up for our generations to come free at last.

[hania]

Anti-Black racism is still a problem in Ontario as racism still exists at both institutional and interpersonal levels. Institutions, such as government agencies, educational institutions, and workplaces, still have policies or practices that disproportionately impact Black individuals. Interpersonal racism involves discriminatory attitudes, behaviors, and actions directed towards Black individuals on an individual level.

[Laura]

While I do not live in Ontario and can’t speak to the specific experiences of the province, in my own experience anti-Black racism persists primarily through the “democratic racism” explained in the module. Many people seem to be unable or unwilling to look inward at their own internalized biases and interrogate how they may be perpetuating anti-Black racism and other forms of oppression.

[Danish]

Anti-Black racism is most definitely still a problem in Ontario. While there may be a little more “acknowledgment” on the part of individuals, schools, etc., this is something that is deeply embedded in our ideologies and practices. Anti-Black racism continues to manifest systemically. Even when people do “acknowledge” it (I’ve seen this being done after land acknowledgements), it’s almost like a check box that people are ticking off. There’s no time or period to actually reflect on what this means and what it entails, how we might be complicit. This racism is something that is taught, as it passed down by our parents and their parents. I recently had a conversation with a young person who told me that his parents told him to not make friends with Black folks but he didn’t understand why. We took that as a teaching moment to explore the history and how his parents have come to their understanding, but that doesn’t make it right. We talked about unlearning racism and ways we can engage in conversation. There’s still a lot more work to do.

[Laura]

Hi Danish,

I’m not from, living or working in Ontario, so it was very insightful to read your post. I’m always so surprised when I hear stories such as the one you mentioned with the young person. For a very long time, probably until I began university, I thought that I had never heard or seen any instances of individuals being racist. And while I had never heard or seen anything that was clearly and blatantly racist, I had seen many examples of microaggressions- a concept I was barely aware of at the time. I think that clearly portrays privilege… to be so unaware of something that is extremely harmful and racist.

Thank you for sharing!

[Kennishia]

I believe anti Black racism is still a problem because confronting it would require an overhaul of a system of oppression that still benefits those in power and decision making spaces. First, I feel there has been deliberate action to erase the stories of Black experiences to ensure that the narrative of “multiculturalism” and “all are welcome” continue to persist. We cannot address a problem that there is no awareness of, and there has been a conscious effort to exclude these histories from our curriculum in a way that prevents the “whole truth” from being shared. In the same way, these systemic tactics have been used to deny the existence of anti black racism and many are unable to recognize it when it’s happening in their workplaces and communities.

[Brianna]

I feel that anti-Black racism is still an issue in many areas as some who are racist do not acknowledge their actions and behaviors as racist. In contrast, it is possible that others intentionally partake in racist behaviors as they are influenced by others and the media and feel discomfort towards anything that is “different” in their eyes.

[Danielle]

While I am not in Ontario, I can say with certainty that anti-Black racism is still an issue in Canada. In some smaller areas, where there hasn’t historically been a lot of diversity, people have gotten comfortable in their “bubble” of not witnessing overt racism in their daily lives. Due to not seeing this overt racism, they assume that racism doesn’t exist there. I would say this applies to most of Canada in some way, but is strongly true in smaller areas. What people tend to ignore however are other ways racism exists outside of big “in-your-face” examples. I find there’s also a tendency to excuse other’s actions as “not racist” – “they’re not racist, it was just a joke”, “they’re not racist, they’re just curious”, “they’re not racist, they just haven’t been around Black people before”, etc. – so as to guard the person’s feelings. Calling out friends/family members on their racism is uncomfortable and unfortunately too many of us opt not to do it.