By now, you’ve probably seen old images of the Prime Minister in brownface and blackface resurface in the media.
Not only are they shocking and disturbing, they are deeply hurtful to those of us who have faced racism and discrimination firsthand. It brings to the forefront the injustices committed against people of colour and Indigenous communities in this country for over 150 years.
As a labour leader, I have had to work with whatever government is in power. I have seen the efforts of this particular government in addressing anti-Black racism, Islamophobia and other forms of discrimination. While its record hasn’t been perfect, so much has been achieved even though there is clearly more work to do.
It’s now up to the Prime Minister to rebuild Canadians’ trust in him again by continuing to take actions that show the sincerity behind his regret and remorse. Should he be re-elected, his government must commit to a meaningful strategy for dismantling systemic discrimination that keeps far too many people of colour from succeeding in our society.
For the rest of us, it’s critical that now, more than ever, we vote for the Canada we want.
Please learn about what Canada’s unions are calling for in this election, particularly around the issues of equity and inclusion.
Thank you.
Hassan Yussuff
Canadian Labour Congress, the national voice of Canada’s unions
