REVP Statement: 2018 International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

March 21 is the annual International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. In 2018, we know that racial discrimination is far too prevalent. The voices of hate and exclusion are becoming louder every day; Islamophobia, Antisemitism and anti-refugee rhetoric have increased both online and in our daily lives.

Racism is unacceptable in all its forms. Unfortunately, we know that far-right hate groups are growing in Canada as well as in the United States and Europe. Police-reported hate crimes have increased for the past three years and our communities are not immune.

Here in the Prairies, we have seen far too many examples of the hardship and pain that systemic racism has caused, and continues to cause, the Indigenous Peoples of this land. In order to finally begin the necessary process of reconciliation in all of our communities, PSAC calls for the adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, which commits Canada to engage Indigenous Peoples based on good faith and on the principles of justice, democracy, equality, non-discrimination, good governance and respect for human rights. 

This call is made in the context of the wider struggle for racial justice across the Prairies and throughout Canada, as well as the larger movement around the world. This year, the United Nations theme is: “Promoting tolerance, inclusion, unity and respect for diversity in the context of combating racial discrimination.”

It is our duty to combat racial discrimination in our homes, in our communities and in our work-places. Let us resolve to stand together and be the change we want to see in the world.

In Solidarity,

Marianne Hladun

Regional Executive Vice-President

Public Service Alliance of Canada, Prairies