The observance of Black History Month is centered around acknowledging the pivotal contributions made by Black people in Canada. It is also a month where conversations on anti-Black racism and racial justice are amplified. Yet, when Black History Month comes to an end, these efforts are often paused despite racial inequities persisting all-year long. The continuation of conversations centered around anti-Black racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion are especially crucial now due to the ways that the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed Black Canadians to the brink revealing how health and economic inequities experienced by Black Canadians are deeply intertwined with systemic racism.
Covid-19 caused widespread disruptions, but research has shown that Black Canadians were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Moreover, Black Canadians and racialized groups were grappling with a dual pandemic, the pandemic of systemic racism and Covid-19. Black Canadians make up a small percentage of the Canadian population, however, according to Statistics Canada, Black Canadians had significantly higher mortality rates and infection rates in contrast to white Canadians. In addition, Black Canadians experienced higher risk of exposure to the coronavirus, due to inequalities related to healthcare, living conditions, and employment. In regards to employment, Black Canadians experienced the highest unemployment rates and job loss rate in comparison to other racial groups. Specifically, Black Canadian women experienced the highest levels of unemployment rates, while being overrepresented in frontline employment, the care economy, and in precarious work.
Two years into Covid-19, Canada’s focus has diverted to post-pandemic recovery. However, without concrete action, racial inequities will continue to shape the lives of Black Canadians while the rest of Canada “builds back better”. The private sector can contribute to real progress on racial justice, by focusing on centering equity, inclusion, and diversity in their efforts to ensure an efficient and sustainable recovery. Key actions include:
The UN Global Compact understands how anti-racist action is imperative to dismantling systemic barriers and reforming discriminatory institutions. Learn more here about how the UN Global Compact is working with business to eliminate systemic racism.
If you're interested in joining the UN Global Compact and tapping into its vast network in Canada, we invite you to take the next step. Become a Participant and help lead the charge to advance sustainable development and social responsibility with us.
Join Today© UN Global Compact Network Canada | Website by Mediasuite