February is Black History Month, and this year the celebration of cultures comes as right-wing forces try to turn back the struggle for equality.
Sadly, south of the border the Trumpian alt-right tries to make equity, diversity and inclusion bad words. On this side of the border, it’s time for vigilance, especially for unions, who have been at the forefront of the struggle for equality.
The work is far from complete, especially when it comes to Black workers, who of all equity-seeking groups are most likely to feel the sting of bias and exclusion.
Consider the stats:
In 2023, 16% of Black Canadians with a bachelor’s or higher degree worked in jobs requiring only high school, compared to 11% of the general population (SRDC).
Black Canadians earn 75.6 cents for every dollar earned by non-racialized Canadians (TMU).
Unemployment for Black Canadians in 2023 in Canada was 9%, higher than the national average of 5.4%.
Employers are 40% more likely to interview a job applicant with an English-sounding name, despite identical qualifications (Government of Canada).
This February, we celebrate the Black communities of Canada and all the contributions of Black Canadians to the country whose freedom we defend. When everyone is given the chance to contribute to their potential, all Canadians win.
