Breaking Barriers: Institutional Racism

Breaking Barriers: Institutional Racism

An Indigenous mother records herself crying out in pain at a Quebec hospital, but it took her death for the country to hear her. The Coroner’s report says Joyce Echaquan’s death was an undeniable case of systemic racism.

Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident.

More than 50% of Canadians think systemic racism is built into the economy, government, and educational system.

Black, Indigenous and People of Colour say they are treated differently and even looked over for promotions and job opportunities.

More than 1000 former and current black public sector workers are fighting back, banding together in a class-action lawsuit to speak out against discrimination, hoping real change will happen.

And some Indigenous government employees are starting their own legal action, calling out the racism they say happens every day.

Institutional racism can affect people of colour’s mental health, fearful the system will work against them at work, in policing, healthcare, and schools.

What concrete action can all Canadians take to eliminate systemic racism? And how can people of faith play a role in this fight?

This week on Context, breaking barriers in institutional racism.