Region of Durham is committed to addressing anti-Black racism in the community, according to John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer.
“As a corporation, we are looking within to see where unconscious bias might be occurring and working on an anti-Black racism strategy. This will be part of a larger anti-racism framework. We have engaged Keishia Facey of RFWC Consulting Services to lead this process. Keishia is a Durham region resident; and she has extensive experience providing strategic direction, thought leadership, and the development of inclusive work and learning environments related to confronting anti-Black racism,” said Henry in an issued statement.
“This important work has begun, as we listen, learn and confront anti-Black racism together, and work to create an anti-racist environment. This initial focus on anti-Black racism will set the foundation for a dedicated focus on diversity, equity, and inclusive community development,” he added.
But there is more to be done. And, we are committed to doing more, Henry said.
“I understand that words are not enough. We will stand together to ensure our policies and programs are built on equity and opportunity. Fighting anti-Black racism is not going to be easy or comfortable. But it needs to be addressed, and it needs to happen now.”
Your voice is important
He urged people to speak up. “Your voice is important, because Black lives matter. We need to address social injustice. We need to stand for equality. We need to ensure a better tomorrow for residents who call Durham Region home. That’s why we are united, with our Black community members, in solidarity to demand and create change.
“As a community that stands together, we need to accept others for who they are—rather than defining people by their beliefs, culture, identity, language, or the colour of their skin,” Henry said.
He said no form of racism is acceptable in Durham Region. That’s why, this past summer, we took a step towards addressing anti-Black racism by hosting an important town hall. About 7,000 people joined in to listen, engage and understand concerns. Anti-Black racism is a difficult discussion, but we can no longer be silent.
When we seek to understand the realities of anti-Black racism—and acknowledge our failures—we can help to ensure equity for Black residents. We can work together to protect the dignity of others, he said.
Note: For more information on the steps the Region is taking to address anti-Black racism, view the Anti-Black Racism Town Hall and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Follow-Up Committee of the Whole report.