Solidarity: Black Lives Matter
Published June 04, 2020
If your words are failing you right now, silence is not the answer.
The most recent series of killings of Black individuals by police is yet another tragedy in a long series of injustices. It demands a collective, sustained, community response. We stand with individuals and communities who are affected by systemic racism, violence, and discrimination, including police brutality against Black individuals, people of colour and Indigenous people here in Canada and in the United States.
Co-operatives are built on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity and solidarity. So long as systemic racism exists in our communities, we must, and we will work to dismantle this injustice.
It’s also time for non-Black people to look at our own behaviours, to commit to being actively anti-racist, to denounce racist words and acts, and to fight for equity and equality in our public and private spheres.
As co-operatives we must continue to bring people together, strive for mutual understanding and support, and to build a just world. As an organization, we are committed to being actively anti-racist, and to taking positive action to eliminate injustice and oppression, wherever it exists.
“When history looks at this period of time, I believe it will judge those who remain silent with the same ferocity as it does those who have perpetuated the cycle of racism. Inaction is a tacit endorsement of the status quo.” – Wes Hall, Globe and Mail, June 3, 2020
We acknowledge with humility and regret that we have been silent before.
We all have a role to play in working to end anti-Black racism. We affirm that Black Lives Matter, now and always.
The Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada
Listen:
Am I breathing? Nicole Waldron reflects on systemic racism. “Our community is in a constant state of mourning. Are you breathing? How are you handling the trauma?” Nicole serves on CHF Canada’s Board of Directors.
Read and take action:
Canadian Women’s Foundation Resources for Ending Anti-Black Racism
Black Organizations and Anti-Racist Groups Canadians Can Support Right Now
Racism is not just an American thing
Don't miss out on the latest co-op news, success stories, and helpful resources for your co-op. Sign up here to receive our eNews every two weeks straight to your inbox!