Ford Government not committed to Anti-Racism Initiatives

BY BRITTNEY CHANNER

Hey Everyone!

June is here! The birds are chirping, the flowers are budding, and the sun is finally giving us the shine that we all have been waiting for. In some way, I hope you all have the opportunity to enjoy this lovely weather that we have been having. This week I would like to spend some time discussing the latest acts of the Ford government and his commitment to anti-racism initiatives.

When I write my articles, I always like to keep in the back of my mind that I am writing on issues that can cause one to either desensitize themselves from the realities of everyday life or lose overall focus. Therefore, I always try my best to provide the public with the best comprehension of legal knowledge that I have and ensure that it makes sense and is authentic.

Within the last few years, there has been a shift in our political climate and of the climate of our neighbors to the south, which has caused an increase in problematic behaviors; especially regarding the aspect of race. It is not surprising that this shift has taken a toll on a large number of people and has led to an increase in bigoted behavior however, this is the exact reason why anti-racist initiatives are needed.

In order to prevent the continuation of such behavior, no matter what social or political climate we as a society may be in, educating the masses on what racism is, how racism negatively impacts minorities and prevention methods is required. Nevertheless, on May 7^th, it was revealed that the Ford government allocated $1000 dollars for Anti-Racism Initiatives although there is significant proof showing that hate crimes are on the rise.

As shocking as this allocation is, many local community members, advocates and experts who are affiliated with the Ontario Human Rights Commissions feel that these estimates are a slap in the face to the continuous work it takes to promote equality and educate the masses on the effects of racism within society. In addition, it may seem that this $1000 budget simply suggests that Ford and his government are not interested in doing the work it takes to reach racial equality. Although the proper staff has been assigned to helping with these initiatives, it leaves no money to do the actual anti-racism work with the budget provided.

There are many communities across the province that have continuously put on small workshops in community centers and libraries in order to combat this change but more needs to be done. With such a limited budget, there leaves no room for further investment into organizations or programs that are singlehandedly making progress on such issues. Also, the budget does not provide adequate funds to anti-racism ethnic committees which the Ford government has already put an end to.

Laura Mae Lindo, the Official Opposition NDP’s critic for Anti-Racism, Citizenship, and Immigration criticized Doug Ford for his willingness to spend $50,000 “off the books” for a custom van however when it comes to addressing racism and building a more inclusive province, he continues to drag the province behind. (Ontario NDP, 2019)

As I mentioned earlier, when discussing complex issues such as race and/or legal information, it is very easy to become desensitized due to the information being hard to understand or the fact that everyday exposure through social media or the news makes everyday people like you and I become immune to unfortunate events. However, I do think it is important to note that there is a lot of improper education as it pertains to race and racial groups. It is this “mis-education” that has contributed to the increase in hate crimes around the city and the province as a whole. Hence, why creating anti-racism workshops and programs can help assist in commencing an effective dialogue.

As a country that derives strength from our diversity, it is apparent more than ever that we must stay observant in the fight against tolerance and continuously commit to learning from our differences. However, in doing so comes with acknowledging that racism still exists in Ontario and in Canada through direct and indirect acts. It exists through our government, employment, down to our schools and within our healthcare system. Ignoring it and pretending like these issues don’t exist or are not as extreme compared to other countries, will not assist in promoting racial equity.

Although it’s easy to offer simple solutions in regards to how to manage such a consistent problem, having a government that will help initiate the difficult and at times uncomfortable process in combating racism is a positive step in the right direction; and as Ontarians, you deserve better.