For the last installment of the series, I have two more common examples of privilege to share. Both are based specifically on identities: race and gender. The first example is thanks to Hadiya Roderique, who wrote an amazing article for the Globe and Mail last weekend entitled Black on Bay … [Continue reading] What’s Privilege got to do with it? – Part 4
Inequities
Reconciliation in Canada
Last week I attended the Canadian Race Relations Foundation Conference – Inclusive Canada, 2017 and Beyond. It was a thought-provoking and intense two days with a strong theme of Indigenous inclusion. The opening keynote was by Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, Ambassador for Reconciliation Canada. He … [Continue reading] Reconciliation in Canada
The Power of Words
Today I'm writing about words and choices. In our post-colonization societies, the use of words still reminds us (if we are aware and paying attention) of who is in charge, and who has value – and who doesn’t – in the eyes of the state. Take some of the names of sports teams, for … [Continue reading] The Power of Words
Black Lives Matter = Opportunity for Growth
Black Lives Matter Toronto halted to Pride Parade on Sunday to make some demands of Pride Toronto. It’s not the first and won’t be the last of their bold activism. And, as Naila Keleta-Mae writes in her Globe and Mail article, the point is that they make people uncomfortable. Here’s my perspective … [Continue reading] Black Lives Matter = Opportunity for Growth
Anti-Racism Directorate in Ontario
The Ontario Government has created an Anti-Racism Directorate. Here is what the website http://www.premier.gov.on.ca/en/news/35889 says: “The Directorate will work with key partners such as business, community organizations, educational institutions and the Ontario Human Rights Commission. The … [Continue reading] Anti-Racism Directorate in Ontario
Silent ways marginalization occurs
If you're a parent, you are familiar with the act of registering your child's birth. Probably not something you associate with discrimination or inequity. Your child is born. You register yourself or yourselves as parents. Voila! For some people, birth registration is a painful reminder of … [Continue reading] Silent ways marginalization occurs
Viola Davis’ Emmy for Best Actress
Congratulations Viola! I shake my head that this is the FIRST time a woman of colour has received this award. I want to ask, what year is this? But Viola's speech says it all - the only thing that separates women of colour from anyone else is opportunity. And those opportunities, sadly, have been … [Continue reading] Viola Davis’ Emmy for Best Actress