Acknowledging Difference; Accepting Responsibility
Written by Leroy Hibbert, Multicultural Outreach Program Coordinator, LUSO Community Services
When you think of racial equality what comes to your mind? Representation? Dignity? Support? Kindness? The removal of systemic barriers? As a Person of Colour, I believe the term incorporates all these thoughts and more.
As I engage with people through my role as the Multicultural Outreach Program Coordinator at LUSO Community Services, I have found there is a popular belief that “we are all the same” and society is “colourblind.” While the idea of individuals saying they “don’t see colour” may seem an innocent statement, the implications are quite harmful and contribute to the perpetuation of racism. Such statements inadvertently deny how the social construct of race shapes how People of Colour are viewed and treated in this world. By no means am I here to cast blame or guilt, but rather to shed light on a topic that may not be discussed openly and comfortably with our family or friends.
While there are many definitions of racism, I see racism as an individual action or institutional practice that consciously or unconsciously treats racialized people in an inferior manner. However, systemic racism is often engrained in policies, procedures, and practices that hinder the full participation of racialized people.
In light of the racial discourse taking place around the world there seems to be this notion that racism doesn’t exist in many communities or even at all. Having this mindset dismisses the microaggressions and micro invalidations that take place in a person’s life. The idea of gaslighting members of certain racial groups has severe negative consequences, and it ignores the systemic barriers that hinder progress. I recall being a student at a school that had “slave day” as a fundraising activity and having a school administrator saying to me “you speak really good English, where are you from?” and then proceeding to ask me if “I played basketball?”. Although I am a member of the Black community, I was born and raised in Canada. Comments and assumptions such as these can have long lasting impacts for racialized community members.
Even though human beings have a tendency to take cognitive shortcuts in our daily interactions with each other, it is important to recognize that this is happening and what we as individuals can do to dismantle inaccurate ideologies and promote racial equality. Below are some suggestions:
Acknowledge that racism exists in many forms.
Believe and honour the experiences of all.
Avoid performative actions.
Be anti-racist and not just non-racist.
Educate oneself about the issues facing BIPOC Communities.
Refrain from defending, justifying and explaining away microaggressions.
In conclusion, many on the receiving end of racial injustice are not always focused on the “intent” behind the actions but rather its “impact.” There may be individuals that find conversations about racial oppression are uncomfortable, and they certainly can be. I appreciate and understand that, but imagine how uncomfortable it is to live it each and every day.
“In the end, we will remember...the silence of our friends.” Martin Luther King.