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Trust Requests

Part 2

Description

 

The Black Faculty Collective at the University of Waterloo:

“In the spirit of collaboration, we offer below some ‘trust requests’ to you. As an aside, we use the term ‘trust requests’ to mark an innovative language difference from the linguistic choice of [the] Black constituencies on University campuses in the USA.”

“Partners do not demand actions from each other. They build trust through consultation, collaboration, and real partnership. Demands arise when the consultation, collaboration, and partnership break down.”

This assignment is due Friday October 30th, 2020 - 11:30 PM and represents 10% of your final grade.

 

Instructions

 

Students will be required to contribute to two (2) online Trust Requests. Each student will submit a Trust – an action item to challenge anti-Black racism – in a collaborative document online.

Document 1 will outline action items for the University of Waterloo. This document will be submitted to senior leaders at the University.

Document 2 will outline action items for the Region of Waterloo. This document may be submitted to the Region of Waterloo.

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Abstracts

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  • A more concerted effort to recruit Black students.

  • Mandatory Anti-Black Racism/diversity Workshops for all Faculty members.

  • An all-black residence to give Black students the chance to live with other Black students and thrive together. A home filled with people that all share something in common. With onsite Black staff (like the university colleges on campus).

  • More Black teacher/professor representation.

  • Increase Black faculty among the university staff to endorse representation and allow students to feel more welcome.

  • Make reforms and develop resources that are intersectional, acknowledging the diversity among Black communities.

  • A course that teaches students about the history and present-day struggles of anti-Black racism within our country must be mandatory for all first year University of Waterloo students.

  • The increase of minority admission and recruitment in specific in departments such as classes, groups, board meetings, undergraduate admissions.

  • Create a Black a women in business/leadership course.

  • In order to ensure that the University of Waterloo is truly a school that promotes the importance of diversity and prohibits any form of racism, mandatory “Challenging anti-Black racism” courses should be implemented here at UW.

  • Anti-Black scholars and theorists celebrated at the University of Waterloo should be acknowledged as just that: anti-Black. Calling attention to anti-Black attitudes in academia ensures an environment in which Black students can strive for academic excellence.

  • The University of Waterloo should commit to providing scholarships catered towards Black students in order to close financial gaps that may exist and increase representation of Black individuals in academia.

  • Provide more advisors and supports groups that cater towards helping Black students and the specific issues that follow with being a Black student in Canada.

  • Hiring Quota for Black Faculty.

  • The University of Waterloo should hold mandatory training workshops for all students as well as staff members. The training sessions should be specifically focused on the historical roots of anti-Black racism and ways to challenge it. This interactive form of learning and training will allow students and staff to effectively combat racial bias.

  • The University of Waterloo should ensure that there is an adequate number of Black therapists available for counselling services, preferably proportional to the number of Black students at the University.

  • Monthly Newsletter that provides volunteering opportunities/scholarships for Black people, information on events/protests/foundations that are challenge anti-Black, racism, Hotlines/Resources (for someone to talk to), Guidance/ Peer tutors etc.

  • Services that help Black males along with the school raising awareness. Black males, deal with societal pressure around their skin tone and toxic masculinity around counseling and mental health.

  • The reviewal and reform of all introductory history courses at UWaterloo, to challenge the erasure of Black History in education.

  • The University of Waterloo could host week-long events halfway through each term to raise awareness about all aspects of Black lives (similar to Orientation Week, but solely based on Black individuals and communities).

  • The University of Waterloo should work on aiding the public on understanding the devastating effects of Anti-Black Racism by creating classes meant to educate students on eliminating stereotypes and reducing the role of the N-word in our society.

  • Create a drop-in service specifically for Black students to socialize, have student advocacy, and resources for Black students for counselling services, financial supports, etc. Similar to Niagara College’s Indigenous Education Services.

  • Monthly literature workshops dedicated to Black professors, authors, editors and literacy analysts teaching and constructing conferences with students about their work, dedication and commitment at the University of Waterloo.

  • The University of Waterloo as an institution should take the following possible steps in order to ensure reduced racial discrimination. Explicit lessons on race and conflict resolution should be given to all students. This should not be a graded course but treated as an extra activity as this will ensure more active involvement and marks/grades will never be the priority.

  • The University of Waterloo should organize and host seminars or conferences where they bring in guest speakers and Black students so that (if they are comfortable) they can share their experiences and help educate those who are ignorant/less educated about racism.

UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO

I don’t have a lot of personal knowledge of ways that the university can improve to challenge anti-Black racism. My first term has been completely online and I’ve only been on the campus once to pick up my student card. I do have relatively recent experience as a prospective student. An important focus for incoming university students is on whether you’ve done enough for universities to accept you. Equally as important is whether the student will accept the university’s offer. Black students do not just focus on the academic merits of institutions. They also focus on the institute's reputation in connection with racism and Black students' academic and social experiences. Anti-Black racism has a long history of undervaluing Black intelligence and Black contributions in all fields of study. This can be seen in the ways that universities undervalue prospective Black students. The University of Waterloo should make a more concerted effort with Black students and faculty to recruit prospective Black students. By understanding the experiences and expertise of Black students and faculty, the university can focus on improving the experience of Black prospective students. Using this expertise to showcase the school as a place that values Black minds. Overcoming racist ideas needs to be addressed to improve the Black student experiences and improve the University of Waterloo’s reputation as an inclusive institution.

 

As stated previously, prospective Black students ask family, friends, check internet articles and forums to find out how universities they are interested in attending handle anti- Black racism on campus and if it is an environment that appreciates the contributions of their Black faculty and students. In their schooling experiences so far most, if not every, Black student has faced a teacher or administrator that did not value their presence in the classroom and undervalued their ability to learn and improve. Unfortunately, it is very difficult for students to address such racism and they do not always have the freedom to change schools or classes. Fortunately, in public schools students do not pay for such experiences. When attending post secondary students have more on the line in terms of their career goals and financial burden, this added pressure forces students to search for universities that will give them the best student experience and success.

 

While going through the Waterloo Ready program I found a considerable focus on addressing the needs of international students, specifically from Asia. Waterloo is definitely known for having a large Asian student population. It made sense to address them. Asians are racially stereotyped for being studious, good at math, and focused on academic achievements. Black people are racially stereotyped as being lazy, stupid, and unsuccessful in academic pursuits. These stereotypes impact how universities recruit students. Overcoming racist ideas with seeing the worth in the person, the possibilities for their future. If Black students do not feel valued by the university they will not come. The University of Waterloo prides itself on the title of the most innovative university in Canada and other Canadian and international reputations. That is not enough to recruit some of the best minds to the school. Black students have to succeed in spite of the system, in spite of the cultural expectations for them. The tenacity, drive, and innovation that is required to do that should not be underestimated. Tenacity, drive, and innovation that the University misses out on. Black students are as intellectually capable as their non-Black peers. Their spot at a University is not something that should be seen as a success story or an incredible feat. Black students should know that the university views them as equally important to the university's success and reputation as any other racial group. Students of other racial groups are successful and flock to the University of Waterloo because the university values their contributions. Plants only live if someone believes in its ability to grow and puts in the necessary effort to help it thrive. Does the University believe that prospective Black students feel that the University believes in them and will provide them with the necessary support needed for their academic life to thrive?

My personal commitment to challenging anti-Black racism at the University of Waterloo is to support organizations and events at the University that focus on addressing anti-Black racism in attendance, spreading the word to other students, and organizational and membership roles. I will personally address instances of microaggression and other racially driven attacks. If I can not personally address and resolve the issues I will contact university administration and report the issues. For too long instances of racial abuse have gone unreported because of fear of not being listened to. It is important that the university is fully aware of the racial issues on campus. I will continue to learn and address my own racial bias to make the school a more inclusive and welcoming place for all students.

 

REGION OF WATERLOO

In the last five or so years we have seen what people are calling a resurgence of white supremacy. I don’t believe that this is a new phenomenon, I believe that racist ideas have been nurtured in homes privately for the last few decades, only after the civil rights movement did many white supremacist have to hide behind close doors as such open racism was no longer socially acceptable. The racial abuse that is being allowed in the region is unacceptable. The Black community has seen the racial abuse they have been subjected to be handled with less than a slap on the wrist. Microaggressions, exclusion, missed opportunities, stereotyping and physical and verbal assault affect the mental health of the Black community and the region should put into place programs that stop the abuse. In June racist flyers were sent to two apartment buildings in Waterloo. These flyers spread racist beliefs of the dangers of interracial marriage and negative consequences for the health and intellectual ability of mixed children. As a hate crime the police did investigate. The criminals were never found. The ‘Central Park Karen’ Amy Cooper, who attended the University of Waterloo, incident reminds us of what happens when racism is not handled properly. Amy Cooper received hate from around the world and lost her job for putting the life of an African American man in danger, but what happened after? We know she was fired from her job, temporarily lost custody of her dog, and apologized for her behaviour. We don’t know if she learned how her white privilege was formed and how to challenge her own anti-Black racist ideas. If the Region of Waterloo had a “How to Challenge Anti-Black Racism” course then people like the individuals who sent those flyers in the region could learn how to become anti-racist. The region of Waterloo can take advantage of more people being open about their racist ideas to teach them how to challenge those ideas instead of pushing them back behind closed doors. Only after education can we see lasting change and eventually a stop generationally passed down racism.

 

Most racist incidents are handled either by ignoring them, forcing an empty apology, or in extreme cases the firing of the instigator. None of these solutions address the racist ideas behind the actions. If the region is going to challenge anti-Black racism they need to challenge racism head on. It is not enough to teach people history lessons, and show the accomplishments of Black people for racism to end. Racism needs to be called out for what it is. Racist need to learn how current systems disadvantage Black people and the reality of White privilege. They also need to know how to continue to challenge anti-Black racism in their lives. Most people exhibiting racist ideas would not call themselves racist because they have Black friends or have not attended a White supremacist meeting. Everyone has racist ideas in their subconscious. We need to teach the difference between passive “not racist” and active anti-racist.

 

Actions like anger outbursts are socially condemned and in some settings as part of disciplinary action people need to partake in a weeks long anger management course to address the issue that led to the outburst and learn ways to prevent outbursts in the future. I believe that the Region of Waterloo has a responsibility to create a similar course for challenging anti-Black racism. A place that employers, school administrations, and other organizations can send people who have expressed antiBlack racist ideas in speech, action, or online as part of disciplinary action. This course should be based around teaching the history of how these racist ideas have become so ingrained in society and how certain organizations and groups of people perpetuate these beliefs to continue to benefit from them. Due to circumstances of birth, educational opportunity, socio-economic status, religious beliefs, and many others, not everyone is exposed to the same resources and science based studies. The ignorance of some is dangerous for many. The only way to overcome this ignorance in the Region of Waterloo is to denounce it completely and provide a way for people to overcome their ignorance. I am not naive in thinking that this will cause the complete end of racism in the region. As long as racism is made beneficial by the public and private sector racist ideas will continue. I do believe that governments and companies take advantage of the ignorance of some to fearmonger them into supporting racist policies. As people are freed from the chains of ignorance these fearmongerers will have fewer in their base of support.

 

To challenge anti-Black racism in the region, I will fulfill my civic duty and vote in all national and local elections. I will hold candidates responsible for their promises. I will be involved with anti-racist organizations like Engage KW and support them in anyway I can.

University of Waterloo Trust Request

The University of Waterloo should hold mandatory anti-Black racism/diversity workshops for all faculty members. Workshops are extremely effective in networking a group of individuals and giving hands on experience to education (Hill). When addressing an issue as serious as anti-Black racism, especially within a school setting, it is vital that every staff member has an equal understanding of the matter. Many career paths do not focus on diversity training, therefore missing the opportunity to have an in-depth study of topics like discrimination and injustice. However, if you are a professor who teaches a diverse group of students, each student deserves to feel that they have as fair an opportunity to succeed as others do in the course. Knowing that faculty take part in exercising these topics, is a great step in the right direction.

 

Mandatory anti-Black racism and diversity workshops would include faculty members taking part in activities/events/seminars to identify and overcome prejudices. Examples of workshops that could be held would include but are not limited to: the history of anti-Black racism, understanding the importance of representation, inviting Black authors to discuss the impacts of racism, discussing Black success, understanding privilege, equity conversation guides, anti-oppression resources, human rights exercises and empathy training. I believe it would be most beneficial to reach out to students through a survey, asking what they want their instructors to be aware of. By understanding what benefits the students, the faculty makes themselves better leaders. The University should have a set number of required workshops that should be taken within a school year. Faculty would still have the flexibility to choose from a list of workshops they want to learn more about and that work with their schedules.

 

Recently, information was released from the University of Ottawa regarding thirty-four professors who defended another professor for using racial language in the classroom (Glowacki). Incidents such as this one relay how important it is for universities to be aware of their staff’s racial beliefs and values. School is meant to be a safe environment for students. Mandatory workshops would ensure that the University of Waterloo is committed to building trust between faculty and students. It would reveal its commitment in contributing to challenging anti-Black racism, making it very clear that the University of Waterloo holds zero tolerance for racist behaviour. This request embodies collaboration, consultation, and real partnership, essential for creating trust.

 

I’m currently majoring in Social Development Studies at the University of Waterloo and hope to pursue a double major in Sexuality, Family and Marriage Studies. Content such as diversity in communities and racialized groups has been discussed. I have also learned about anti-Black racism in both a historical and modern context through Arts130. In a matter of almost two full months of school, I have learned more about the importance of equality and equity than ever before. I understand my privilege and have learned new information to educate my family, friends, and others around me. I will continue to advocate for justice and show my commitment to fighting anti-Black racism and ensuring that the University of Waterloo is no place for injustice.

 

Region of Waterloo Trust Request

The region of Waterloo should implement a compulsory course/courses in both elementary and high schools regarding racial injustice and diversity. This year Black Lives Matter took the world by storm, opening everyone’s eyes to our society’s inequalities. Social media quickly called for action and one of the largest requests of youth was that diversity courses were implemented into their curriculums (Raj). No child is born hating, individuals learn to be negative and put down others. If children learn from a young age to accept everyone, regardless of their differences, they will likely grow up to be more accepting of others.

 

By implementing a compulsory course on racial injustice and diversity in both elementary and high schools, students will learn from a very young age, about different cultures and the importance of accepting all people. Our education system is structured to have students fulfill specific credits such as math, ensuring youth understand the quadratic equation before understanding ethnicity and culture. Canada is known for its multicultural society, and yet that leaves me questioning why I have not been taught the appropriate skills and knowledge needed to understand cultural diversity. Although schools celebrate Black History Month, does one school-wide assembly make a significant enough impact to change generations of systemic racism?

 

If the goal of education is to teach valuable lessons that enrich lives, then I think there is opportunity to do better. Classes that teach about diversity and racial injustices open people’s eyes and motivate them to bring about change in society. The implementation of these courses would ensure a bright future for students who grow to become policy makers, activists, and so forth. Regardless of the career path someone chooses, we will always benefit from courses that teach us about the world we live in. By making this change, our community will set an example that others can also follow.

 

This trust item would challenge anti-Black racism in the region of Waterloo by ensuring that children are taught the importance of being anti-racist and are prepared to enter a world of diversity. These values and beliefs instilled at such a young age, will work to ensure that no one is discriminated against. It will cause children and youth to be involved in current events, questioning what is morally right in our society. Youth are the future, and from an early age, they will be inspired to get involved and advocate justice.

 

My personal commitment to challenging anti-Black racism in the Waterloo region and outer society is to continue to educate myself and spread awareness. At my previous high school, I helped begin an equity club. I continue to educate my family, friends, and use my social media platforms to advocate petitions, organizations, and more. Taking an Anti-Black Racism course was also a part of learning to challenge anti-Black racism. The information learned thus far has opened my eyes and I feel much more knowledgeable and motivated to create change knowing the effects of anti-Black racism.

Trust Action Request for the University of Waterloo: An All Black Residence

My first Trust Action for the University of Waterloo, I suggested an all-black residence where a community of Black students can thrive together. This community would be home to many different Black students with similar and different life experiences. Similar to the University Colleges in Waterloo (St. Jerome, Renison, St. Paul, and Conrad Grebel), this residence would be a home with onsite Black staff to make sure the students are the most comfortable. This gives Black students a place for them to be able to relate on a level of skin colour with everyone they live with. Having an all-Black staff will help create healthy and trusting bonds with adults that can understand the issues their students are going through. As well as older Black dons that are able to form brotherly and sisterly bonds and be a form of support.

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Similar to other residences, residence bonding activities and events would be held, there could be events dedicated to black culture; food, music, speech, different black backgrounds, and black excellence. Different black cultures can be celebrated separately or at the same time. Endless support systems will be available for the Black students who choose to live in this residence, but also for Black students who do not live at this residence but would like the all black support.

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As a Black women that lives in a predominantly white town, getting to be a part of the Caribbean Village in Brantford’s International Villages and getting to spend time with lots of different Black individuals and learn lots of different cultural information on not only my own background but the background of others really helped me through issues I had with my own identity and the questions about being black. At my current residence in the University of Waterloo, St. Jerome University College, there are only five Black students. We are somewhat close and tend to get together to hang out and talk to each other. Being to only Black people in our res is not the most comforting, as others are not able to relate to what we go through being Black people in this world and at this school.

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Trust Action Request for the Waterloo Region: Police Officers need added training

The Trust Action I request for the Waterloo Region is for law enforcement. I believe that police officers should be trained in non-life-threatening take downs, require more gun control and safety to wield a gun and take part in anti-racism training courses along with a psychological exam every four months. These added measures will ensure the police officers we have in the Waterloo Region can be trusted by the black community.

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The non-life-threatening take downs are so that when they are encountered with a dangerous situation and they it is necessary for them to take the suspect down, they do not end that suspects life, no matter what they did. There are many different ways instead of shooting someone. Tying into gun control and safety requirements; currently to become a police officer in Ontario one has to go to The Ontario Police College (OPC) for three months after being hired at a service. At the OPC they teach firearms and use of force, one has to pass a shooting target test there, then redo that same test within their first two weeks of being at their service and then take the same test once a year for the rest of their career. Police officers are able to walk around with guns after passing one test a year. They should have training on where to shoot, if it is their only option, to inflict minimal injury, they should have other non-life-threatening weapons or devices to take down suspects that they are required to use before they are able to use a gun on another human being.

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The anti-racism training course is to ensure that racist minded individuals are not able to become police officers and abuse their power against the citizens they are supposed to protect. This course would end with a psychological exam to determine whether or not in different situations, if the cop would act by the law and not on bias and prejudice against Black people. Personally, the idea that members of my family could be mistreated by people we are supposed to trust and who are given greater power haunts me. Many Black people are afraid and do not trust the police. Some Black people do not even have the intentions to call the police when in any situations in fear that they will be the ones apprehended. With these added trainings, police will be able to form a strong bond with the Black community they are supposed to protect, and Black people will have confidence that the police are there to help them.

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I am personally committed to challenging anti-black racism for myself, my friends, my family and the people around me. The black community has gone through so many traumatizing experiences that it still surprises me that we are in the year 2020 and we are still not treated as equal people. When the black lives matter movement arose in the beginning of 2020, I had to talk with my 14-year-old brother about some of the experiences he will go through being a black male. Our father had to sit us down and try to explain why the world is how it is and what to expect being Black individuals. I got to see over social media, which people would stand up for BLM and which people would re-post a story and act as if they cared. All of these people were people that I somewhat knew. I am a mixed raced individual, I deal with racism that others won’t, and others deal with racism that I won’t. As a Black woman, I have to face the world differently than others who don’t look like me on a daily basis. I understand that I have not faced half of what other Black people have but what we do have in common is what brings Black people together. With these trust request implemented I would feel as though I have a safe place at school with the support of people like me and in the city, I live in, a bond with the law enforcement that swears to protect. I fear for my younger family members, and I fear for the younger generations of black children who will have to go through these experiences in the upcoming years.

University of Waterloo: Action Item - More Black teacher/professor representation

When it comes to challenging anti-Black racism, there are a lot of barriers that people are faced with. Most of these barriers are rooted within the systems in which the whole country functions through. This includes educational institutions as well, such as the University of Waterloo. When we talk about systemic racism and challenging them, people think about ways in which they can help change the racist policies. Such ideas may include more Black teacher/professor representation within educational institutions. This is an action item that I personally want to focus on since it affects the education of Black students. Some educational institutions do realise that the system is racist and it caters towards white people’s education more so than Black people’s education. It is historically known that Black people were perceived to be intellectually inferior than white people. These racist ideas still take place and affect Black people’s education tremendously. Thus, there needs to be more Black teacher/professor representations in schools to meet Black students’ needs since this makes a huge difference in their learning environment. Therefore, this paper will focus towards the need for this action to be taken more seriously, knowing that this contributes to inclusivity, equity and equality amongst Black individuals.

 

This action item focuses on Black people’s education, whilst braking down the racist ideas of intellectual inferiority of Black people versus white people. Through practicing and committing to this action item, the education system as a whole naturally starts to challenge anti-Black racism. In that, with more Black educators involved, it contributes toward breaking down those racist ideas about Black people’s intelligence and their academic performance. This also helps with Black student’s confidence and gives them the chance to relate and open up to people who they feel comfortable with. Oftentimes Black students are not asked about how they relate to their educators, and when asked, oftentimes the answer is that they don’t. Black students who are faced with racism at every corner do not relate to their privileged white educators; and this makes a huge difference with their education.

 

Having Black educators makes a significant difference for minority groups, in this case for Black students. It makes a difference in that they feel more comfortable asking questions about the curriculum; they feel as though their educator understands them in a way that no other can because the educator too is part of a group that is discriminated against; it gives Black students a voice which doesn’t happen often; there is less intimidation when walking into an educational institution such as University of Waterloo, since historically it has not been a welcoming place for Black individuals. All of these combined, it increases Black people’s sense of belonging. Moreover, with more Black staff presence it pushes against ingrained perpetuated racist ideas of institutionalized racism.

 

The reason that this action needs to be taken more seriously is that, the more people learn about the challenges faced by Black people they realise the amount of damage it causes them, yet when nothing is done. This becomes something that is being done intentionally. In a country that values education so much, we must keep Black people in mind when creating curriculums, hiring educators and having a place where all students and staff members are welcome. This not only helps contribute to challenging anti-Black racism, but it also makes sure that Black student’s education is in the minds of those who can make a true difference with the power that they hold. That is one way that people can use their genetically inherited power.

 

Region of Waterloo: Action Item - Providing free counselling for Black people

Challenging anti-Black racism is not something that is limited to specific institutions or places of gatherings, it is something that is community based at the same time. There can not be true anti-Black racism without the involvement of the wider community/society, including the Region of Waterloo. The action item I choose for the Region of Waterloo is having free counselling for Black people. This is due to the importance of healing from intergenerational trauma that Black communities have been facing. Intergenerational trauma is something that needs a lot of deconstructing history and understanding the roots of racism. As a community we must take accountability and actively work alongside Black communities to promote healing by providing helpful and accessible resources.

 

More often than not people fail to understand that for anyone to grow and thrive, first the environment needs to change in a way that promotes growth. When Black people are associated with “bad” neighbourhoods, or for “being violent beings” people don’t understand that; for one, this is not true and for two, even if it is true, people don’t just wake up one day and decide “yeah this seems like a good day for destruction”. Intergenerational trauma causes people to always feel in a “fight or flight” situation. It creates a life where Black people carry the burden of being strong and fighting through it all. Intergenerational trauma affects people in ways that they might not even be aware of. Regardless, it is the duty of the community to contribute in helping with providing resources for Black individuals to heal from intergenerational trauma that is caused by white supremist and racist ideas, policies and systems.

 

If the community had more holistic access to therapy, it could provide a wider range of opportunities for healing for Black individuals. Not only would it provide more opportunities for Black therapists and accessing free counselling; it would also provide a place that meets Black people’s individual needs since the trauma they face is unique and historical. This is especially important to understand because it can be hard for Black individuals to heal within a traditional therapy setting since it is provided by white people, which at the same time is a place that has oppressed people. Moreover, having Black therapists is very important in healing since a lot of therapeutic places are rooted in patriarchy, colonialism and with western ideology; making the traditional therapy unrelatable for Black people. Another aspect that traditional therapy fails to address is that it is an individualistic therapy style which oversees the fact that people might be more community based and need their community by their side in their healing journey. We must first understand the depths of our actions as a community, take accountability of our actions, and actively work alongside Black communities to not only help them heal, create opportunities, creating positive change but to also challenge anti-Black racism from its roots. That is one way that we can work together as a community to bring about positive and just change for Black people.

 

It is crucial to have free counselling for Black people that is accessible in order to help them with their healing journey. The wider society, including the Region of Waterloo has a big role in this process. Free counselling not only creates more opportunity for Black therapists, but it also reduces barriers for those who have mental health challenges, those who are new to the region and for those who are having a hard time acclimating into the society. Without barriers, Black people will have the opportunity to integrate to the community better, work toward their healing and break down stigma toward Black people. With the integration of free counselling for Black people they will not be limited to receiving traditional therapy, this way they can receive different kinds of therapy such as: nature based therapy, physical therapy, spiritual therapy as well as culture specific practices. Either way, society plays a big role with their commitment of providing essential tools for Black people along with challenging anti-Black racism.

Trust Request 1- University of Waterloo

At the University of Waterloo, it is no doubt that our students are a multicultural body of individuals. As we live in the cultural mosaic of Canada, you would expect the same from the diversity of the staff. In fact, that is exactly what I demand. The University of Waterloo should make it of utmost importance to focus on creating a more diverse faculty of staff and advisors, specifically Black individuals. This diversity would generate more representation, thus allowing students of colour to feel more welcome and safe in their learning space.

 

This Trust should be enforced by the Fall 2021 school term. Each faculty should increase Black staff members for each year. Furthermore, university advisors for each faculty should also see an increase in diversification. By hiring more people of colour, the University of Waterloo will actively create a safer space for its students. Furthermore, for non-coloured students, more Black faculty would ensure that they are being educated of the rights and wrongs to becoming an anti-racist. One study suggests that, “the presence, influence, and contributions of faculty of Color can help higher education students achieve intercultural competence,” (Madyun, 2013). Increasing the diversity of the university staff would benefit everyone; it creates more jobs, a safer environment for Black students, and a new learning opportunity for non-Black students.

 

Like many Canadian universities, the University of Waterloo has had its own racist encounters with staff and students. In March 2020, Professor BJ Rye was accused of saying the N-word multiple times during a class, so her students expressed their concerns to no avail. An apology was released, but adequate consequences have not been provided considering the severity of the situation. If the University of Waterloo commits to diversifying the faculty, fellow professors can hold each other accountable and educate one another. Furthermore, by hiring more Black faculty members, the students who are uncomfortable with racially inappropriate events can have someone to identify with, and someone who can understand their problems. Overall, it would create a safer and welcoming space for our students.

 

I chose this Trust Request because I am well aware of what it feels like to be underrepresented in the communities that I associate with. I am a Middle Eastern woman, and I have never had any Arab instructors or staff members in all my years of education. When students would make racist jokes regarding Islam or terrorism, I never had a trusted staff member to turn to, especially someone who faced the same discrimination as me. I am concerned for the Black students at the University of Waterloo, and I hope that they receive enough representation to feel welcome and safe.

 

As a first year student at the University of Waterloo, I will personally commit to challenging anti-Black racism at any chance that I can get. If a fellow Black classmate is experiencing any form of discrimination, but they have no Black faculty member to speak with, I will personally ensure that I will listen to their problems and help them feel accepted. For any students that are not Black, like myself, I will make sure to help educate them in the best ways possible to ensure that they understand the basic principles of being an anti-racist. Finally, on my own time, I will try to incorporate anti-Black racism in all of my course material to ensure that my professors and fellow students are always being exposed to it, no matter what. Fighting anti-Black racism is extremely important to me, and it should be important to the University of Waterloo as well.

 

Trust Request 2- Region of Waterloo

In the Region of Waterloo, there are approximately 30+ Black-owned businesses, ranging from food, to beauty, and even auto shops. There is a business available for virtually every person to support, depending on their needs. However, this does not mean that these Black-owned businesses are getting the support that they deserve in terms of funding. I strongly believe that these businesses deserve more funding and attention from the Region of Waterloo.

 

I demand that the Region of Waterloo commits to an increased funding towards the support of Black-owned businesses in the area. By promoting and supporting more of the Black-owned businesses in Waterloo, it can help to strengthen the local Black economies. During the Covid-19 pandemic, a report from the National Bureau of Economic Research states that, “the number of African-American business owners plummeted from 1.1 million in February 2020 to 640,000 in April,” (Fairlie, 2020). Although these statistics are from the United States of America, the numbers can be reflected in our Canadian economy as we too have had a large decrease in small businesses due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Now is the most important time for the Region of Waterloo to start funding these businesses and ensure that they can continue operating and providing for our community. These businesses are the diversity and representation that the Region of Waterloo needs, especially as it is an area heavily populated by young impressionable students, including some of which are Black. Furthermore, supporting Black-owned businesses can help shrink the racial wealth gap in Canada. It is unfair that Black individuals are not paid the same as other races, so increasing the funding for these businesses would help create the equal playing field that many activists demand. Finally, since Black individuals face racial discrimination when searching for jobs, more funding would equate to more job opportunities. It is imperative that we have more Black individuals working in our malls, grocery stores, restaurants etc. as it would create more representation for the people of colour residing in Waterloo.

 

I chose this Trust Request because I am well aware of the struggles that Black-owned businesses face. All odds are stacked against them, and it is incredibly difficult for them to create a successful business in a society that is still littered with anti-Black racism. I think that this Trust Request could make a huge difference in the lives of Black individuals throughout the region of Waterloo. They will feel a tremendous amount of support in their community, and they will be able to see more representation across the region.

 

My personal commitment to anti-Black racism in the Waterloo Region starts with these local businesses. Since I am well aware of the benefits that come with supporting Black-owned businesses, I will ensure that I spend my money at these places who deserve it the most. Furthermore, I will promote these businesses using my social media accounts to give them more attention and generate more business from people in the Waterloo region. Within my own friend groups, I will commit to the endorsement of these businesses to help keep them open during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Trust Request: Waterloo University

I chose the action of offering resources and reforms in ways that are intersectional to challenge anti-Black racism at school. I chose this as my request for the University of Waterloo because I think that it is important to acknowledge that there is diversity among Black communities. I think that the topic of intersectionality is something that has not been seen within the current resources that are being offered. For starters, Intersectionality is a term coined by Kimberle Crenshaw which is, “the study of overlapping or intersecting social identities and their related systems of oppression, domination, and discrimination” (Ralston, 2019). Intersectionality looks to further examine categories like economic status, immigration status, one’s gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, mental health, etc. When some of these forms of oppression are combined with being Black, it can deepen inequalities Black people face in society. To fully understand a person’s experience, it is important to consider each trait someone is linked to in order to challenge the oppression they face. For example, Waterloo currently offers counseling and health services for those that are in need. This includes individual appointments, groups and workshops, student medical clinics, and urgent help. There are also multiple numbers available to contact in case of emergency. However, when going through the website, I was unable to find information on how these counseling and health services will be able to help Black people specifically. How are Black students supposed to know that if they were to contact or seek help via one of the suggested resources, that they will be directed to help that is suited towards them? This is a problem because it can reduce Black individuals’ willingness to seek and receive care which can lead to suffering in silence. Also, treatment providers are less likely to be Black and some might not be properly educated on Black culture and struggles (“Black Mental Health”). Being Black and having mental health struggles and health problems is just one way to look at things through an intersectional perspective. There are multiple other things to consider, like being Black with a disability, or being Black and female, and having to deal with things like sexism and rape. Ways to solve this issue would be including a section on the Waterloo University website that outlines ways in which care for Black students struggling with these issues will be provided, and making sure that there are appropriate care providers. Black students must have places and resources to go to that are curated to help them when struggling with things like health, disabilities, and other oppressions. I believe that this will contribute to challenging anti-Black racism at the University of Waterloo because there are more ways to benefit the Black communities at Waterloo instead of focusing solely on the idea of race. I hope that taking the time to consider everyway of oppression a person goes through and making proper considerations when offering resources to Black people, will allow them to feel included and a part of the Waterloo community. Everyone needs and deserves to feel welcome to use the resources that are available. As a student of this school, I am committed to challenging anti-Black racism by proposing ideas to help Black communities and condemning racist acts on and off campus with the involvement of other students. I believe that as a Waterloo University community, if we all come together there can be big changes that will provide benefits for Black students.

 

Trust Request: City of Waterloo

I chose the action of using the funding that goes towards police and instead redirecting it to restorative justice services in the city of Waterloo. I chose this as my request for the city of Waterloo because I support the idea of defunding the police. The premise of this idea means, “reallocating or redirecting funding away from the police department to other government agencies funded by the local municipality” (Ray, 2020). Doing this has some potential benefits in reducing and hopefully getting rid of police brutality and crime against Black communities for good. I believe that this should be one of the first steps in challenging anti-Black racism within the city of Waterloo. Along with this, is the idea that all cops are bad because of the ways the police force is enforcing racism by following an abusive system that oppresses Black people daily. The redirection of these funds should go to emergency response programs that do not murder Black people. Police services have been known to just make things worse. I know I do not need to bring up the many cases and names of Black people that have been circling the news one after the other due to police violence. Unfortunately, more training and an increase in diversity will not end police brutality. An example of what not to do would be what is happening within the Minneapolis police department. An article states, “The department offers procedural justice as well as trainings for implicit bias, mindfulness, and de-escalation. It embraces community policing and officer diversity, bans ‘warrior style’ policing, uses body cameras…” (McHarris, 2020). While this focus may sound great and very reformative, this kind of focus simply provides the police with more power and resources. The real problem is that the criminal justice system as a whole is based on, “power and opportunity to systematically harass and kill with impunity” (McHarris, 2020). The goal is to reduce power and reinvest money towards ways that benefit Black communities. The city of Waterloo can do this is by changing policies which limit the ability police forces have to respond to certain kinds of emergencies. The main idea is that people should be able to have the option to call different numbers to access various trained response teams that can handle situations properly for the safety of Black people. This is already happening, for example, “Violence interruption programs exist throughout the country and they are often led by people from the community who have experience navigating tricky situations” (Mcharris, 2020). Programs like these are being implemented all over that further provide resources that are not police related. More of these are required and it would benefit those that live in the Waterloo community. Money can be directed to things like funding community programs, making universal income possible, and helping the Black communities that are struggling through the pandemic. This will contribute to challenging anti-Black racism within the region of Waterloo by increasing the amount of public safety being offered while decreasing the use of police because they are currently providing anything but safety for Black people. I have personally committed to challenging anti-Black racism in the wider Waterloo region, Ontario, and Canada by refusing to side with the police, and continuing to fight anti-Black racism in my home and school community.

Help Students to Gain Greater Knowledge on Anti-Black Racism

University of Waterloo, I demand you to incorporate a course that teaches students about the history and present-day challenges that come as a result of antiBlack racism within our country. This course must be mandatory for all first year University of Waterloo students to take, this ensure the information provided reaches as many individuals within our community as possible. Making a course with this material mandatory has a goal to help educate a wider range of young individuals about the issue’s Black communities within Canada face in their everyday lives. Elementary and high schools in Canada are not educating their students substantially on the history and contemporary issues of anti-Black racism. This makes the youth more susceptible to learning this topic from the media or their peers which is likely to include false information and biases that can interfere with their ability to know what is real or fake. An example of a false statement circulating around is the idea that anti- Black racism is an issue mainly in the United States. Well anti-Black racism is a large problem in the United States it is also just as prominent in Canada. In participating in this course students will have a much greater understanding for what their peers have gone through and still deal with today. When people have this knowledge, it allows them to develop a greater amount of empathy making them more likely to be there and support their peers through difficult situations.

 

Lack of proper education on the topics of anti-Black racism is something I believe to be a significant issue contributing to anti-Black racism which is why I believe this mandatory course will contribute to challenging anti-Black racism in Canada. Education is a key aspect to a person's life where they are being taught how to be an active member within socialization. In the school setting children are developing their selfimage, a factor in this being moulded is through peers and teachers (Mobasshera). Since this is such a crucial part of a child's development it is the perfect opportunity for youth to learn about issues that are present within their society. With this foundation of knowledge on the history of anti-Black racism individuals will be able to apply this knowledge throughout their lives, educate others such as their peers or family members and participate in protests and organizations that they are passionate about. Although this type of education should have occurred in elementary or high school, it is better to teach youth later rather than not at all. I personally am an example of this, I have learned more about the history and contemporary issues of anti-Black racism in the last few months from videos of people sharing their stories and from my class on how to challenge anti-Black racism then I have learned in my entire educational career. This fact is extremely upsetting, which is why I am asking you University of Waterloo to help people gain the knowledge to understand, appreciate and stand with people of colour. I can tell you from experience that having a fresh mindset and reliable knowledge truly changes your perspectives and makes you want to fight for what is right. Help me allow more individuals to have this experience and work against the education system that does not give this topic the justice it truly deserves.

 

Giving Black Communities the Support they Deserve

Region of Waterloo, I am in need of your help to implement a greater number of reliable resources to support Black communities in our area in terms of mental health. Safe, easy and free to access resources are needed for all Black individuals, as of right now there are very few options for free services. We need these resources in our community due to the fact that people of colour suffer from mental illnesses at a much higher rate than any other group in Canada (Health Canada Inc.). Examples of resources that would be helpful include a help phone, walk in clinics for one on one, and support groups that are all geared toward victims of anti-Black racism. All people that are giving the counselling or running these groups sessions must have the proper qualifications to work with individuals who have been discriminated against, oppressed or have experienced significant trauma in any point of their lives. A help phone would allow individuals to get fast access to help in times of mental distress and can also guide them to where they need to go from there. Access to walk in clinics allows people to get one on one time with a counselor which is very helpful for most people as human interaction can allow people to feel more comfortable. Support groups can be extremely helpful for a lot of people because you not only get the help of a professional, but you are also able to build lifelong connections with others and bring that support system into everyday life. Giving the Black communities within the Region of Waterloo care that is geared specifically toward them, has a hope to make people of colour feel more comfortable going there. The healthcare system has a history of being discriminatory towards people of colour making it an untrustworthy system to seek help from. The primary goal of all of these resources is to make them more comfortable to open up to prevent people of colour from having to struggle in silence with no support or guidance.

 

Within the history of slavery and anti-Black racism in Canada there was no support given to help fight through and combat mental illnesses which resulted in Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome, also known as PTSS. PTSS has similar symptoms to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, although the idea of the PTSS theory is that these symptoms are then passed along from generation to generation due to this lack of help and support given. This mean the results from slavery are still affecting today’s generation of people of colour (Degruy). This goes to show how the healthcare system has drastically failed people of colour. This system contributed to anti-Black racism then and still continues in today's society. This is due to the fact that the white population has reliable, trustworthy and easy to access resources when it comes to mental health compared to the extreme lack that people of colour receive in our community. Region of Waterloo, by implementing these resources for our Black communities you are contributing to challenging anti-Black racism by making the healthcare system gain a greater amount of equality in terms accessibility to mental health support. The goal is to achieve equity in the healthcare system as a whole which needs a lot of work to get there but, this will be taking a step in the right direction in achieving equity in the long run. I will make it my mission to inform as many people within the Black communities of the Region of Waterloo about these resources as possible if you choose to implement them within our society.

Challenging Anti-Black Racism at the University of Waterloo

The increase of minority admission and recruitment in specific departments such as classes, groups, board meetings, undergraduate admissions.

 

I choose this trust request because it represents how there needs to be more advocacy and awareness for students who do not get the recognition and or gratitude they deserve. Many minorities and Black students are subjected and neglected from joining groups and clubs. I have witnessed this in my high school, and this ultimately resides in why I am trying to pursue this issue forth.

 

This trust will allow for many students who are Black or a minority to gain access to education out of high school. In 2011, Toronto District School Board detailed just 49 percent of Black students, compared to 77 percent of white students, were in academic programmes. Black males were also more likely to be identified as having special educational needs, and the lowest average grades of any category were for Black students (Verma, 2020). This date shows how there is still a social class construct that results in Black students and minorities not getting enough recognition and awareness towards educational purposes. By accepting and educated Black and minority students into practices of groups, clubs and teams can increase the level of participation and knowledge to formally succeed in classes.

 

This will benefit University of Waterloo in becoming more diverse in their faculties and bringing more practices and values to the university. With lowering admission requirements for minority and Black students will allow for these students to work harder and get the recognition in high school to then allow them to further commit to higher education. The University of Waterloo has many groups like WUSA, sports groups and sample clubs but this university needs more diversity within these groups. Waterloo should implement everyone including international students, minorities, aboriginals, and Black students to engage in activities around the campus. This will allow for students to express how their years of oppression in high school and elementary school have changed entering university. With more available opportunities, students can elaborate and discuss the hardships they face due to the colour of their skin. Just because they are Black or brown does not mean they don’t work as hard as others. These are imposed upon by colonizers and people who stereotype someone as soon as they see them. The University of Waterloo needs to challenge how they view someone not based off of their race.

 

A personal commitment in enacting this trust request is to develop and implement a student-led diversity committee on campus. This committee shall serve as a liaison between the minority students and cultural organizations. Black and minority students who are in this diversity committee on campus have a role and direct participation in the recruitment of faculty and employees. The student-led diversity committee will be included in the interviews and decision-making process. This committee will also govern and review admissions of Black and ethnic groups that are applying to the university. This ultimately will reside in creating a more diverse and situated community within the university. Overall, increasing minority admission and recruitment in departments such as clubs, teams, board meetings, undergraduate admissions in particular will help society become more aware of systematic racism that is condemned in schools today.

 

Challenging Anti-Black Racism in the Region of Waterloo

The goal in Kitchener/Waterloo is to concentrate on political and economic power, including learning methods that can examine how whites learn their positions in a racialized community and the costs of adhering to these positions. This can be constructed by groups and practices done in the area to influence racial and ethnic equality.

 

I chose this trust request because it will formulate how colonizers used power to dominate Blacks. This will raise awareness within the community as it will increase the acknowledgment and scarcity that Blacks endure. White communities tend to use their class construct and hierarchy through the use of politics and economic value to deteriorate and diminish people of colour. This needs to be addressed and these values need to be prompted as equal and not to be used against one another.

 

This trust examines how with specific practices done in groups of Black and White people, they can learn what affects and oppression they feel on the regular basis. These practices within these groups will help people realize and understand the torment and adversity that the Black community has faced. Politics and high waging jobs are generally more adhering to White people and this allows for there to be a social gap and this creates inequality in influencing racial and ethnic injustice.

 

This will contribute to challenging anti-black racism in the Region of Waterloo as it will raise awareness, and this can be exercised within all sorts of communities. Police training, political leaders, local workers all have to be trained and informed through a course that acknowledges anti-black racism. This training will infiltrate how people view and understand racism in the world. Empathy means to put yourself into someone else’s shoes. This course/training will do exactly that, in empathising how Black people have been oppressed and are living in a racist world.

 

Personally, creating these requirements and making them mandatory training for people within work systems, students, and government officials will create more knowledge and awareness of racism that Black endure. With people practicing and learning the history of racism, this should be implemented into all regions as required course training as it can get rid of the stereotypical balances that are placed on someone. Furthermore, implementing methods of learning that can explore how whites learn their roles and costs of adhering to these roles in a racialized society. This can be built to affect racial and ethnic inclusion through organizations and activities carried out in the region.

As I look at the various work environments, specifically in the business sector today, there seems to be an underrepresentation when it comes to Black women as leaders in their workplaces. Too commonly do I see White CEO’s, COO’s (Chief Operating Officers), presidents, vice presidents, and managers and often question if they just don’t feel like pursuing such roles or if it is the field of work itself. However, I believe that by providing these women with a course that will strengthen their skills, allow them to develop new ones while also teaching and training them on how to be the leaders of tomorrow, underrepresented individuals will feel that they can also be represented in such positions and one day be leaders in their various areas.

 

I chose this item as I feel that there aren’t many representations of Black women in leadership roles in their various workplaces, particularly in corporate environments. This may be as a result of these women lacking the particular skills to obtain the role or simply not being taught the fundamentals of how to achieve leadership roles in a society that doesn’t aid them by providing them with the means to elevate themselves. Also, these women are highly talented as they were able to go against the odds of prejudice, in their various institutions/ field of work. They have so much to offer but are often overlooked by those higher than them and put in positions where no growth is being made or is entirely abstract from the goals, they have set for themselves in addition to their dreams and aspirations. This causes them to feel ignored, belittled and discouraged as they feel that they are unfit for the role and simply avoid going after it overall.

 

This course will be open to Black women as well as any other individual who identifies themselves as Black and who may or may not already be involved in the business sector or even individuals who have developed an interest in leadership/business. The purpose of this course is to help those who are already in the field of business to aim higher and to provide the ones just starting with the fundamentals of leadership in business so they can begin to go for these positions. The skills that will be taught are as follows, how to effectively communicate, how to build, maintain and lead a team, how to formulate a resume, how to interview others, different leadership styles, how to start your own business, how to achieve a leadership role in a work environment where there is a lack of Black female representation in positions such as (president, vice president, Executive assistants, CEO, COO etc.)

 

In terms of how this trust will contribute to challenging anti-Black racism at the University of Waterloo, firstly, it will pave the way for there to be more Black women in leadership roles in the corporate sector as this course will provide them with the skills as well as the confidence needed to apply and be selected to take on these positions as they will be able to utilize what they are taught in the course and apply them.

 

Secondly, this trust will challenge anti-Black racism at the university by helping them to acquire the needed qualifications by which the university can offer these ladies the opportunity to elevate in their fields as well as future endeavours.

 

Moreover, this initiative will cause the business program to grow in popularity as it will receive acceptance from Black women in the global community. In addition, the course will lead to an increase in inclusivity which will enable others to also feel that they are considered and understood by the school. As a student at the university of waterloo, I will try to challenge anti-Black racism through my commitment to this initiative by, raising awareness for the program itself, creating posters and flyers (which will include, how to register, who it’s open to and where it is located) to hang around the campus as well as around the areas around the university.

 

I chose this initiative because I have observed that many Black creators in the region of Waterloo display their talents and creations during Black History month. Besides that, there is a lack of continuous opportunity for them to do this and thus also causes for them to not receive as much support from the community as those residing in the community are unfamiliar with them and their work.

 

I believe that by starting a seasonal Black creator showcase where any Black individual can display their abilities/ talents will be of great benefit to the community as it will provide them with the recognition required to be able to publish their arts outside of Canada as well as spread their creativity and joy amongst the community.

 

The purpose of this trust is to offer Black creators in the city an opportunity to exhibit their work in a safe space where they are appreciated and recognized in the city.

 

This will be done through the means of a Black creators showcase which will be a seasonal event and not something that only occurs during Black History Month. At this showcase, there will be various forms of art/media ranging from artwork, photography, poetry, fashion designs, books etc. which may correlate to the season (ie. In the fall showcase, designers may design fall fashion pieces, artists may create artwork relating to Fall etc.

 

This trust will contribute to the erasure of anti-Black racism in the region of Waterloo as it will firstly, provide the city with more a unique identity as well as culturally enriches us as individuals as the various forms of art will allow Black individuals to obtain more of a definition in a society which reflects them in a positive light and shows that they too are capable of being great and erase the stereotypes of them being incapable.

 

Secondly, this initiative will improve the connections between community members and demonstrate a sense of unity between the people as they will begin to have conversations surrounding matters of common interests and thus will allow for a functional society overall as they will both be able to come to an understanding of one another.

 

Thirdly this initiative will allow for the Black individuals to obtain freedom of expression and identity through their art as they won’t feel the need to only create art centred around Black history or racism but art that truly reflects them as individuals.

 

When it comes to my commitment to challenging anti-Black racism in the region of Waterloo, I will try to donate to any causes/foundations, attend events which promote the erasure of anti-Black racism, speak up about it in my community by using my various social media platforms.

Truth Request for the University of Waterloo (Trust #1)

In order to ensure that the University of Waterloo is truly a school that promotes and celebrates the importance of diversity and prohibits any form of racism, mandatory “Challenging anti-Black racism” courses should be implemented.

 

“Access to the arts, exposure to new cultures and appreciation of diversity are the cornerstones of a rich and vibrant community. Creativity and diversity stimulate innovation.” (University of Waterloo, 2015). Emphasis on “appreciation of diversity are the cornerstones of a rich and vibrant community.” Without taking the time to properly learn about the history, injustices, and achievements of the Black community, how can the university and its student body show true admiration and respect for diversity? It is not possible. Participating in clubs, organizations, and general events that are related to challenging anti-Black racism is so important as it raises awareness and demonstrates recognition of diversity within the school. However, there is a flaw throughout these ideas if that is all the university is going to settle for. Notice that they (e.g. clubs) are optional. In the end, the truth is that only the interested and the curious will join diversity clubs and associations such as the UW-BASE; Black Association for student expression. To challenge anti-Black racism at UW, we must also make an effort to gather and teach the racist, the prejudicial, as well as the uneducated; not just the curious and the interested. Thus, that is why at least one non-optional “Challenging antiBlack racism” course should be placed in the school system and in all undergraduate degree requirements, so that every single student (no matter their opinion or stance on diversity) has the chance to grow, oppose, and fight against racism.

 

Just like how ARTS 130 courses and 10 breadth courses are required in the arts faculty, so should the “Challenging anti-Black racism” course. When exactly the student takes the course during the year should be flexible, though taking it early on (1 st or 2nd year) should be recommended, so that the actual student body itself becomes antiracist. What I mean by this, is that if the course is taken by a 4 th or 5th year student, their involvement and willingness to be an anti-racist leader within their 4-5 years at the University will be cut short as they are soon to be graduates.

 

I chose this trust because it is well known that education has the power to make a difference in the way people think to themselves, understand the world, and communicate with others. I chose this action item because I am proof that taking this class can transform someone’s false ideologies. I used to be a prejudicial person and wrapped myself with the idea that I am an inferior being because I am a POC. Thanks to this course, I know how to confront anti-Black racism, live as an anti-racist, and appreciate diversity. I now understand what terms like “white fragility” and “systemic racism” mean. Thereby, for those exact reasons and more, it would be groundbreaking if all students were to take this course at the University of Waterloo.

 

Until this course does become mandatory, I will demonstrate my personal commitment to challenge anti-Black racism at the University of Waterloo by encouraging and telling friends and acquaintances (in Gr 12 and high school 5th years) who are coming to UW to take the “Challenging anti-Black racism” course as one of their electives and for them to continue the chain of recommending it to others they know as well.

 

Truth Request for the region of Waterloo (Trust #2)

You can confront anti-Black racism by showing your true support of the Black communities through your actions and not just your words. In simpler terms, to transition from being non-racist to anti-racist, the region of Waterloo should lead yearly fundraiser events with the goal of helping Black owned businesses grow in Kitchener-Waterloo.

 

Before taking this course and engaging in conversations with other students in the class, I knew what Black owned businesses were, though I did not fully understand the importance of supporting them and how it can make a huge difference in a city/community. The rising awareness and general idea of supporting Black owned businesses in our cities might be well known among younger generations because of social media, though many older generations and adults are not educated on this topic. Which is why the official region of Waterloo should bring attention to Black owned businesses through major events, so that larger audiences and citizens become inclined to help strengthen Black owned businesses as well. Furthermore, as someone who lives in Kitchener currently but previously lived in Toronto, it is visually noticeable that there is and always has been a lack of support and appreciation for diversity in this region, whether it be in workplaces, and/or schools. Even if there is support, it is rare or temporary.

 

I chose this trust request because Black businesses in KW have so much potential and skill, and if Waterloo gives them official and proper recognition through organizing permanent fundraisers as a regional tradition, there will be an increase in diverse job inclusivity and decrease in problematic and racist aspects in business and economy, which I will further explain in the next paragraph.

 

If the Waterloo region chooses to consistently aid Black owned businesses with fundraiser events, this allows for local, new, and small businesses to find stability in our city. It is important to remember that this stability also contributes to the economic stability for Black business owners, their families like children, and their employees. To add, these hypothetical fundraiser events could largely contribute to challenging antiBlack racism in terms of closing the racial wealth gaps: “The data on the black income gap is stark: in a Canadian context, 23.9 per cent of black people are below the lowincome cut-off. Visible minorities in Canada earn $47,487 on average, while average income for black people is $35,310; and, black unemployment sits at 12.5 per cent, as compared to 7.7 per cent for other visible minorities.” (Salami, 2020). The cycles of systemic racism will only continue in all of Canada unless we act on it as a whole society. Now, it is not just the Waterloo region that can improve on becoming an antiracist community. However, change must start somewhere, and as our city is connected to many others like Kitchener, Cambridge, Toronto, and Guelph, the city has the ability to become an anti-racist model and leader, encouraging other regions to move toward the right direction as well.

 

As for my personal commitment to challenging anti-Black racism in the wider society, I will most definitely be purchasing from local and smaller businesses – specifically Black owned businesses, of course. Some Black owned restaurants in KW that I look forward to visiting once the pandemic is over: Four All Ice Cream, CE Food Experience, and Rainbow Caribbean Cuisine.

Trust Request for the University of Waterloo

Anti-Black scholars and theorists celebrated at the University of Waterloo should be acknowledged as just that: anti-Black. Calling attention to anti-Black attitudes in academia ensures an environment in which Black students can strive for academic excellence.

 

Within the university, a majority of the scholars we are tasked with studying are White, unless we are in a course that specifically focuses on the works and views of people of colour. Students should not have to be in a African Studies course in order to be exposed to Black scholars, and more importantly, students should not be kept from the racist nature of those they are tasked to learn within their classes. I chose this trust request to encourage the University of Waterloo to acknowledge that praising the accomplishments of such people while disregarding their anti-Black attitudes sends the message to Black students that these contributions to academia are valued over Black lives.

 

This action would involve disclosures to students upon investigating the works of known anti-Black racists. Communicating the subject’s racist actions and how they may have influenced their work is necessary to fully understand a concept and how it may have been impacted by anti-Black ideology. This promotes transparency within academia, and encourages students to think critically about how anti-Blackness has penetrated a large majority of the institutions within this society.

 

Challenging anti-Black racism at the University of Waterloo is only possible if the promotion and idolization of anti-Black scholars ceases entirely. It is understood that their works are an integral part within all aspects of academia, but the university has a responsibility to ensure that students, Black students especially, are aware of the backgrounds of the scholars they investigate. Praise about any individual’s character should cease entirely if they are known to hold anti-Black ideologies, and such people must be viewed in the context of their beliefs. Staff should not be censored, but must approach anti-Black scholars delicately in order to ensure that students do not misunderstand them to be correct in their racist misjudgements of Black people.

 

I am committed to ensuring that Black students at the University of Waterloo feel as if they are in an academic environment in which they are allowed to criticize anti-Black policies and incidents that occur within the university. When it comes to concerns raised by Black students regarding certain racist practices, I will support their cases and above all, I will believe that there is an issue, even if it is not directly impacting me. When this happens, offering my support would be the most effective way to use my privilege, as I do not wish to speak over the voices of Black students, who are often drowned out by White, and non-Black students.

 

Trust Request for the Region of Waterloo

The Region of Waterloo should commit to implementing community programs aimed towards Black youth. By doing so, Black youth will strengthen community bonds, and avoid feelings of isolation.

 

Community exists for reasons greater than a shared geographical location. It is a means of social support; an entity in which members advocate for one another, share a culture, and feel protected. Black communities benefit from a mutual understanding in a society that has been consistently anti-Black. I have selected this action item to emphasize the importance of bringing Black people, specifically Black youth, together. The Region of Waterloo has a highly concentrated White population, and Black youth could fall through the cracks. By implementing programs, clubs, and classes, Black youth can meet while having a baseline understanding of one another. Feeling seen and being understood can offset the loneliness that comes with not seeing yourself in your peers.

 

Community programs targeted to Black communities should focus on recreation, leisure, and wellbeing. Such programs have the ability to promote mental well-being, while providing an outlet to youths who experience the stresses of going to school in primarily White neighbourhoods. They could include instructional programs (arts, sciences, life skills) or sports, all targeted towards Black 0-18 year olds within the area. As a result, they learn with one another, become vulnerable with other similar youth, and establish and maintain friendships that enhance feelings of being a part of something greater than themselves. This would contribute to an increase in mentally healthy Black children, thus reducing rates of suicide.

 

Programming, like the ones mentioned above, equips Black communities with tools that they have systemically been robbed of. Extracurricular activities targeted towards children are often financially and geographically inaccessible. By providing spaces specifically for Black individuals to congregate, it sends the message that the general community cares about the well-being of their Black friends, neighbours, and peers. Combating Anti-Blackness does not exist solely in changing attitudes; it also requires efforts from various institutions that can provide resources for Black communities to become self-sufficient.

 

I am personally committed to challenging anti-Blackness in my local, and wider communities. As a non-Black person of colour, I will elevate the voices of Black people in the social spheres I take part in by listening to their dialogues, and refraining from inserting my views in conversations that do not pertain to me. I will be an active listener, and welcome criticism for my own anti-Black thoughts and actions, as I will never fully understand how these attitudes have harmed Black communities. I acknowledge that I have a responsibility to put a stop to any conversations that occur when racists feel comfortable with my White-passing appearance. I will not tolerate anyone who targets Black people with their words and actions. Within the LGBTQ+ community in which I am a part of, I will do my best to elevate the voices of Black queer individuals to ensure their needs are being met, and that issues specific to members of Black queer circles are being addressed. I will do my part in ensuring my Black peers feel heard and respected by me.

Trust Request for the University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo should commit to providing scholarships catered towards Black students in order to close financial gaps that may exist and increase representation of Black individuals in academia.

 

Having Black voices present in an academic space is crucial in eliminating biases that occur in this historically White institution. Black staff are a minority at the University of Waterloo, which becomes an issue when a substantial amount of students are racialized. Providing the means for Black students to initially attend an undergraduate program opens up avenues to progress in their postsecondary education. This does not account for hiring biases prevalent in staffing bodies, but will combat inequalities in education Black individuals experience. The purpose of this action item is to eliminate financial roadblocks preventing Black low-income individuals from attending the University of Waterloo. Attending a postsecondary institution is a luxury many do not have, and loans may be a deterrent when one is deciding their life path. It is crucial for Black bodies to be seen in academic spaces, and finances should not be a factor in deciding whether or not to seek a higher education.

 

This scholarship should take the form of an entrance scholarship and be based on merit, but not just in the academic sense. It is important to identify students who have the potential to succeed in a postsecondary environment. It is imperative that Black individuals, specifically from a low-income background, be included in postsecondary spaces, as they possess a unique world perspective that is valuable to peers and staff.

 

Anti-Black racism is deeply ingrained into the foundations of all forms of higher education. Concepts popularized by White people are taught by White professors to White students, and this, for reasons that are evident, is problematic when a student body is composed of minority groups as well. This action item will give equal opportunity to Black students with financial roadblocks, diversifying the institution, and establishing the framework for more Black students pursuing graduate degrees and professions in research and postsecondary teaching.

 

My personal commitment to combating anti-Black racism at the University of Waterloo is essentially to give room for my Black peers to speak out against anti-Black racism they experience. This includes total and unconditional support if allegations are made against staff and other students, if there are letters or petitions to be signed regarding matters concerning anti-Blackness and the University of Waterloo. As a White-passing student, I am not in the position to “take the wheel”, so to say, rather I will act as a support to my Black peers in any way I can when the opportunity presents itself.

 

 

Trust Request for the Region of Waterloo

The Region of Waterloo should establish a program for Black youth, with access to mentorship, mental health resources, and skill-developing programs to put Black youth on equal footing with their White counterparts.

 

Black individuals continue to be underrepresented in professional spaces despite anti-Black efforts made by the region. This lack of commitment by the Region of Waterloo is a failure; the following request will remedy this shortcoming.

 

This item is presented in hopes it will contribute to increasing opportunities for Black youth in academia and the workforce through providing the means to develop skills that they would have otherwise not been able to access. Programs such as this should be readily available and easily accessible in order to ensure their effectiveness. It is crucial that such programs not be associated with policing in any way, shape, or form; the goal is not to police Black youth, but to give them the resources to succeed in adult life. Defunding Waterloo Regional Police Service youth programs, such as COPS, is a necessary step in order to make the presented program possible. Black youth, who are unfairly targeted by youth programs presented by police services, will find the action item presented of more use, as it will focus on the general health and skill building rather than crime prevention. Access to mental health services and resources are lacking; there is both a financial barrier and a matter of convenience that may prevent some Black youth from reaching out in times of need. Again, the purpose of this request is to give Black youth the means to succeed, and without the proper support, mental health challenges can pose a threat to one’s potential.

 

This piece will, rather than prevent or put a stop to anti-Black racism in the Region of Waterloo, allow Black youth to succeed in spite of it. Committing to the end of anti-Black racism must include healing those who have been touched by it in any forms that it exists, both systemically and interpersonally. Providing opportunities for Black youth undoes the unjustified lack of support they receive in multiple sectors across multiple institutions, which, in itself, combats an injustice that Black youth in particular experience.

 

My personal commitment to challenging anti-Black racism in the Region of Waterloo relies on the fact that I am a White-passing person who will intervene if it is unsafe for my Black peers to do so. I am in a position of privilege, so I must use it rather than abuse it, so to say. This includes challenging blatant and ambiguous forms of racial prejudice, the latter being the most common and most harmful to Black people who experience it. My activism has, and will continue to, uplift Black voices by sharing messages through social media, and now that I am living independently, will potentially grow into volunteering for Black organizations and protests as they occur.

To the Senior Leaders at University of Waterloo,

The University of Waterloo is located in a city that is a melting pot of people from all over the world. The University of Waterloo has a hugely diverse student body with over 40% of students being international, this is something to proud of but we must provide the right supports for those minorities especially the Black community because anti-Black racism in our University is still a huge issue. The Univerity has Black activist groups already such as the African Students Association (ASA), Black Association for Student Expression (BASE), and Black Liberated Athletes Coalition (BLAC). These groups do a great job of bringing Black students together, but, it is not the students’ responsibility to patrol the school and the faculty to assure that it is a safe space for Black students, this is the staff’s duty to keep all students safe and feel welcome which is what the University lacks.

 

My proposal that will allow us to take a step closer to challenge anti-Black racism within our school’s walls is to evolve the current Black ran clubs provided and have the faculty work with these groups. Clubs are a great foundation in helping students connect with others and discuss issues and find solutions, but without the right resources, true change cannot occur. These clubs are given significantly low funding, around $75 per semester, which is nowhere near enough money to operate and gather the resources needed to help Black students excel. The first step is to give more funding, this will allow for more resources not just to the group itself, but for other students within the school. This can include, guest speakers, events that showcase the Black culture, inform others on Black history, and provide any Black students who struggle to pay for tutors or any other school-related expenses some resources that supply financial help. Providing a bigger budget covers the issue of Black students having something to express themselves and work to their greatest potential, but it doesn’t necessarily attack racism. What many other students and myself have noticed is the University only started to become vocal about anti-Black racism due to the Black Lives Matter movement becoming more popularized. While this is greatly appreciated, these announcements should have occurred earlier when many students have complained about the recurring racism from students and faculty for years. To avoid a situation like this from occurring again, the students from these clubs must work alongside the human rights office coordinator to stop these incidents right once they happen. People should not have to fight for their safety in a place where the safety of staff and students is supposed to be guaranteed.

 

My personal contribution to challenging anti-Black racism within the University of Waterloo is to work with these support groups through reposting resources, donating, help set up events or fundraisers, and reporting or calling out any acts of racism that I see happen. Taking anti-Black racism classes to further educate me on issues against the Black community and expand my knowledge on how to be a strong ally.

 

To the Region of Waterloo

The Region of Waterloo is no exception to the mistreatment of Black citizens and anti-Black racism. But due to Canada’s reputation of being the “good” country, the cities within are accustomed to hide the countless accounts of racism in order to keep up the “good” image. There are plenty of stories of Black people being racially profiled, stereotyped, and called offensive slurs that happen within our community and this is due to pure ignorance. We as a city must break this cycle of discretion otherwise we add to the silencing of Black voices and Black issues.

 

My proposal on how the city of Waterloo can provide the correct education while supporting the Black community is by teaming up with Kitchener/Waterloo-based Black activist groups to hold periodical events/charities with the money going towards Black-owned business, mental health services for Black youth, and providing resources to Black neighborhoods such as scholarships.

 

Black voices have been silenced for decades, with the City of Waterloo teaming up with local Black activist groups it allows for our society to know the specific issues of anti-Black racism that occur within our city which brings our community a step closer to challenging it. At these events, there will be Black guest speakers that will educate the community on the history of race and racism, the effects, and why we must challenge it. Education allows people to process their feelings responsibly. Racism is a heavy topic, it’s normal to have a lot of emotions while talking about it but education helps see all perspectives and gives the ability to act accordingly. Next, by educating yourself, not only are you helping yourself but also those around you. The city of Waterloo is filled with diversity, to know about anti-Black racism brings great comfort to those around you and shows solidarity and the willingness to invoke change. Lastly, it brings the community a step closer to take collective action. In order to create social change, we must introspect. Mental health services for Black youth is a very crucial part of this plan because of the intergenerational trauma that many are affected by. This trauma can affect one’s ability to cognitively function to their fullest potential, whether that be in school or personal life. The majority of households can not afford therapists or counselors, therefore, the money raised will go to raising awareness and mental health services for the Black community. Supporting Black-owned businesses not only takes a step further into giving Black people the opportunity to express their passions and run a successful business but also grows our economy and builds closer communities and a more welcoming environment.

 

My personal contributions to challenging anti-black racism within my city are to attend these events to further educate myself, donating money to said charities, support my Black peers by any means necessary, and using the privilege that I have in order to uplift Black voices and educate others on the Black issues.

University of Waterloo -Hiring Quota for Black Faculty Members

I’ve always wanted to go into psychology, specifically counselling, because there aren’t enough LGBT+ people in the field, and there’s a disconnect talking to someone who can’t empathize with you. It’s not something you can learn; either you have the experiences or you don’t. I turned 17 a few months ago, and can honestly say I’ve never had a role model who I could see myself in, until a month ago when I met an adult trans person, who is a counselor for LGBT+ people. They made it -through the suicide rates, the hatred, the dysphoria, through school and now they’re thriving. This trust request is for Black youth my age, who deserve to see themselves in universities, pursuing higher education, teaching, and in the fields they want to go into.

 

I think the power of representation is too often understated. People don’t understand the privilege behind seeing someone like you, doing what you want to do, and doing so successfully -this is something I myself benefit from as a white male. This is a significant issue in academia, specifically for visible minorities in teaching positions in North America. In the United States, 76% of university and college professors were white (Flaherty, 2019), and Canada sees a similar statistic around 78% (CAUT, 2018). According to CAUT in 2016, just 2% of university professors in Canada were Black (2018). Also in 2016, 94% of Canadian Black youth aged 15-25 said they would like to pursue a bachelor's degree or higher, but only 60% thought that they could, compared to non-Black youth around 80% for both categories (Statistics Canada, 2020).

 

This issue isn’t just about role models and the power of seeing yourself represented, consequential as those are, it’s about the tangible effects in universities. More often than not, the lack of Black voices and other minorities is reflected in policies, initiatives and the campus itself. Based on my knowledge, this is happening at UWaterloo. When the President’s Anti Racism Taskforce was announced, it was done so without involving or consulting the community members who had long been working on it, per the “Equity For Who?” open letter. For these reasons, I think the University of Waterloo should implement a hiring quota for Black faculty, not staff, that is proportionate to roughly 30-40%. On top of increasing representation substantially, and subsequently benefiting students and the campus, I believe this goes towards setting a precedent, one saying that there is a space for Black people in the academia world, and for lack of a better phrase, that UWaterloo is ready to put their money where their mouth is.

I want to and will be a student who challenges anti-Black racism at UWaterloo, and I think the first step to this is supporting Black peers through empowerment and solidarity. I have to use my voice when others are ignored or cannot, and be diligent in conducting myself.

 

Region of Waterloo -Act Making Racially Biased 911 Calls Illegal

A few months ago, my friend Sam told me someone called the cops on him and his friends. They were in a parking lot, all 15-17, hanging out. And he’s telling me about it, upset, saying he’s “gAnGsTer” and a thug. One of his friends had a gun in their car. They could’ve been assaulted or killed, not just because our police system is broken, but because some racist decided to report a bunch of kids doing nothing. I think this deserves to be punished. It’s a waste of resources for the police, and can be traumatizing and potentially life threatening for people who are racially profiled.

 

When you listen to the videos or audio recordings of a person calling the police on an individual or group, there seems to be a common theme. They’ll say they’re afraid, that they feel threatened by the dangerous or angry looking person who looks like they don’t belong. That they were attacked or harassed, and think the person has a weapon. If the police who come are not racist, they’re still coming based on the information that this person or group is a threat, and will likely be more alert and hostile.

 

People who call 911 and make false statements, report an offence that has not been committed and do anything to cast suspicion on another for committing an offence they did not can be charged under the Criminal Code of Canada. Schell, 2019). I don’t think this is enough. A few days ago, San Francisco passed a CAREN Act, effectively criminalizing contrived 911 calls based on race (Pereira, 2020). Anyone harmed by racially biased calls is able to sue the caller, making them liable in court at a minimum of 1000$. Waterloo and the rest of Canada should follow suit. Far too often, Canadians adapt this superiority complex over America, because we don’t have headlines around the world for police brutality, ignoring the systemic racism within our justice system. During interactions with Toronto police, “Black people are more likely than others to be arrested, charged or have force used against them” (Carter, 2020).

 

When callers make racist, fake and deliberately misleading 911 calls, they are enabling and perpetuating racism, police brutality and racial profiling. When police show up and are violent, aggressive and treat the “suspect(s)” unfairly, they are enabling the racist callers. These feed into one another, and cost people their lives and their loved ones. Waterloo and the rest of Canada need to adopt acts like the CAREN Act to begin breaking this cycle, and establishing that there is zero tolerance for this kind of ignorance and racism in using a service meant for emergencies. As residents and citizens, we need to be vigilant in protecting one another. I’m going to be someone who steps in, and speaks up.

Trust Request for University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo should hold mandatory training workshops for all students as well as staff members. The training sessions should be specifically focused on the historical roots of anti-Black racism and ways to challenge it. This interactive form of learning and training will allow students and staff to effectively combat racial bias.

 

I’ve chosen the implementation of mandatory workshops at the University of Waterloo for various reasons. To begin, I was able to become much more educated on matters regarding anti-Black racism through this course. I learned the significance of my own positionality and how it influences my outlook on the world and others around me. I broadened my awareness of the unconscious bias and systemic racism towards Blacks that was formed from its historical roots. I learned of the traumatic experiences of Blacks. I also practiced utilizing the media to raise awareness of these essential matters. The insightful discussions held amongst peers helped to truly solidify my understanding of challenging anti-Black racism. The more knowledge we carry, the more empowered we feel. Thus, I feel it necessary for every student and faculty member to participate in mandatory workshops that promote education on the historical origins of anti-Black racism. I find it equally important to have the workshops to also promote empowering discussions on how we can combat these prejudices and stereotypes stemming from colonization and enslavement. People can open up the conversation about witnessing or being a target of racism. Universities should promote these forms of open discussions that overall form unity. Eternity talks of her painful memories on campus, having to deal with numerous racist attacks. Hence, there are many Black Students and staff members out there experiencing the same situations, which affect their mental health and academic or work performance. We can come together in creating solutions to combating unconscious bias and preventing exclusiveness. I find workshops to be the most effective tool as it consists of a shared goal that the participants are working towards. Workshops also allow for a comfortable setting where people can be open and discuss their ideas. The workshops will operate in an educational manner that is followed by group discussions and group activities. Members will be educated on topics regarding the origins of anti-Black racism and the negative ideology of Blackness. Group discussions will proceed, relating to how we can challenge this ingrained ideology and prevent anti-Black racism from occurring at campus. As students and faculty members learn together and share open discussions, the workshops will foster greater inclusiveness and empower Blacks. Through the discussions, people will train themselves to avoid unintentional bias thinking and work together to find ways in challenging racism. Hence, unity will result and diversity will be promoted amongst our university. For my personal commitment to challenge anti-Black racism, I will become an active member of clubs promoting diversity and expression. For instance, we have a Black Association for Student Expression club that focuses on these aspects and plays a significant role in volunteering initiatives, charities, and campaigns. I would also like to become engaged in these initiatives and volunteer for their fundraisings. I will join cultural clubs that promote diversity among students. As someone who grew up in a community predominantly of Asians, I realized that I felt comfortable remaining in the same social circle and making Asian friends. However, by engaging in volunteering and cultural clubs, I can interact with people outside of my usual circle and learn more about others’ cultures.

 

Trust Request for Region of Waterloo

The Region of Waterloo can organize a program for Blacks that is dedicated towards helping the unemployed find and procure jobs. This program can also include employment training for Black youths. Its services can also provide advice and grants and directly connect job seekers to employers.

 

One of the many ways in which Blacks are oppressed is revealed through the statistical evidence of unemployment rates within the Canadian population. Black Canadians have had a significant, recent growth in their population, that reached around 3.5% of our entire population. However, they face above-average unemployment at a rate of 12% whereas, the unemployment rate is only 5% for non-Blacks. The same applies for the younger generations, where the rate is much higher for Black youths, despite their equal education. The systemic racism embedded in our society causes biased recruitment of applicants, which actually has further implications. Unemployment and low-income jobs lead to other challenges for Black families as they may not be able to pay for post-secondary education. Consequently, Black youths will struggle to enter competitive fields and continue to live in this cycle. Hence, I chose this as my trust request because the program would immensely benefit the community of Blacks. The goal of the program is to provide job opportunities for Blacks. Professionals would work with them in searching for which jobs are available in their field of interest. They would provide the contact information of employers for an interview to be arranged. Besides assisting in the job search, they will also provide advice and training to be well prepared for work. Young Black adults and youths may particularly benefit from this skill-building training. They can learn how to make an effective resume that stands out within our competitive modern-day environment and build communication skills for interviews. Moreover, a job searching process is often challenging and takes some time. Hence, the program can use its funding towards providing grants and income supports for unemployed Blacks. One key contribution this government program offers in challenging anti-Black racism is its promotion of diversity among companies. As more minorities are hired through this program, the pool of applicants for the job is much more diversified. The program will enable empowerment and uplifting of the Black community as inclusiveness is also promoted. From colonization and enslavement, stereotypes have been, long ago, created among Blacks, suggesting that they are intellectually inferior to others. However, through the launch of the program, such stereotypes are challenged and can be broken as companies employ highly skilled and competent Black employees. Furthermore, the cycle of living with low income can be prevented among Black families and the youth can enrol in universities. Overall, the prevailing unemployment issue will be reduced significantly. As for my personal commitments, I would like to invest in charities and make donations towards organizations engaged in their efforts to confront anti-Black racism. I will also use my time in volunteering for local events and advocate through these opportunities. There are so many organizations that I can become involved in to campaign against anti-Black racism. The power of media enables me to share on my social media platforms of petitions that can be signed, helpful resources people can use, and how others around me can also become involved. Moreover, the media also allows me to stay engaged in initiatives virtually. I may potentially witness racism in my everyday life, and thus, it is my responsibility to stand up to it and report any hate crimes. Lastly, I will support various Black-owned businesses and continue to educate myself through books and podcasts of ways to challenge discrimination.

Trust 1: The University of Waterloo should ensure that there is an adequate number of Black therapists available for counselling services, preferably proportional to the number of Black students at the University.

As awareness about anti-Black racism rises, we learn more about the psychological impact of facing racism. Racism, or discrimination based on race or ethnicity, is a key contributing factor in the onset of disease. It is also responsible for increasing disparities in physical and mental health among Black, Indigenous, and people of color. (Lewsley, 2020).

 

A 2015 meta analysis found that self-reported discrimination is consistently related to poor mental health. (Paradies et al., 2015). A 2018 paper suggested that the fear of racism itself in also harmful. (The Synergi Collaborative Centre, 2018)

 

Author and journalist, Eternity Martis addresses this issue in her book “They Said This Would Be Fun”: “Numerous, detailed studies have shown that racism is a chronic stressor, and experiencing anti-Black racism has serious mental and physical health effects… And the stress of experiencing racial discrimination on a daily basis also has a significant impact on the achievements of Black students, negatively affecting their success and causing them to drop out, fear going to school, and develop mental health issues.” (Martis, 2020: 74)

 

The University of Waterloo offers counselling services, free of cost which is a very good measure. However, it may not be enough. Facing anti-Black racism and all the issues that come with it, is an experience that naturally is unique to Black people. It may be difficult for non-Black therapists to understand what Black people go through.

 

In the article “Staying The Course: Psychotherapy In The African-American Community,” Old Dominion University psychology professor Janis Sanchez-Hucles says that “all too often therapists today do not understand the issues that are unique to African-Americans and the special dynamics that these clients bring to a first session of therapy.” People of color often enter therapy feeling like they may be judged and misunderstood. Having a therapist who looks like you can provoke a feeling of relief. A Black therapist and Black client can build a faster therapeutic alliance because of that unspoken connection. There are certain conversations about race, police brutality, Black cultural traditions, discrimination, missing Black fathers, mass incarceration, and even Trump that can be less difficult to have and discussed more freely. (Hudson, 2020).

 

Having an adequate (at least proportional to the number of Black students at Waterloo) number of Black counsellors could make a real difference. Black students may feel more comfortable as they would be going to someone who has had a similar experience to theirs. They may feel at ease not having correct stereotypes and assumptions that a non-Black therapist might have. Black students may also find it easier to trust Black counsellors to treat them fairly as Black people are often misdiagnosed. Black students would also be relieved of having to explain the nuances of Black culture as those things would be understood. The importance of having Black therapists for Black students can be summed up by this statement by blogger Rene Brooks: ” Being Black affects every single experience I have on this earth and will do so until the day I die. In order to effectively treat me, you have to understand what life is like for a Black woman.” (Brooks, 2020).

 

Trust 2: The Region of Waterloo should commission the collection of race-based data to study issues such as the prevalence rate of illnesses, educational outcomes, and incidences of avoidable encounters with police for racialized groups.

In any conversation about anti-Black racism in Canada, there is a glaring lack of Canadian data. This is a major reason of why there are misconceptions about the incidence of racism in Canada. Raced based data collection in the US regarding COVID-19 revealed that Black people were almost four times more likely to die from the virus. This shed light on the issues of the American healthcare system and gaps in access to adequate treatment for minorities. This could help create policy that can better tackle this issue. In Canada however, there was no reliable study that could help researchers analyze the impact of the pandemic on minorities. There are also no studies that attempt to look into educational outcomes of racialized groups.

 

One of Canada's leading experts on the social causes of disease told CBC Radio's The House last week that Canada's failure to collect race-based data on COVID-19 infections amounts to discrimination by "neglect”. "It's not about people being actively discriminatory or racist. It's sometimes about just neglect," he said. "And the fact that we haven't collected this data seems neglectful, because everybody really knew we should be collecting these data, but it was never at the top of anybody's list of things to do." (Watson, 2020). Back in September 2019, the Toronto Police Services Board took a historical step, and approved the collection of race-based data. Socio-demographic data would allow for healthcare professionals to have a stronger understanding of prevalence rates of particular illnesses that impact certain communities, and also determine if there are certain populations who aren’t regularly accessing healthcare services. This type of data will collect patient details, including age, racial identity, languages spoken, education level, and income levels. (Amin, 2019)

 

This kind of data could reveal where reforms are needed. For example, research from Toronto has shown that Black males have the lowest post-secondary opportunities due to their disproportionate placement in the “applied” stream of study. (Robson, 2018)

 

The Region of Waterloo needs to implement a similar measure, starting with looking into the correlation between race and incidence of COVID-19.

The University of Waterloo hosts a diverse community of students. There are multiple resources on their websites that address anti-Black racism and are dedicated to providing information about how to stay informed and their efforts in spreading awareness/ challenging anti-Black racism ( ex https://uwaterloo.ca/human-rights-equityinclusion/anti-racism) . Although these efforts barely scratch the surface, as long as racism exists there's always more that can be done. The book of racism has yet to reach its epilogue, so my chapters of challenges will write the narrative. I propose the concept of a school wide newsletter, one that provides information on nearby volunteering opportunities specifically designed towards Black people. In addition, it will have segments hosted by black leaders within the school, hotlines /resources for peer tutors, school-based clubs, and their respected affiliated black-led social media accounts etc. As a Black woman growing up with constant exposure to racism, I know how it feels to feel constrained. The Black woman has become synonymously depicted with being overly angry, loud, and unnecessarily frustrated. How could a collective deemed too loud be constantly silenced by society? Don't even get me started on Black men, the so-called gangsters of society, heartLESS, emotionLESS, powerLESS, “...less” always falling short of the exceedingly high expectations-- no-- demands of humanity, at least the white parts of it. I wrote and read a lot when I was younger, but rarely ever inspired to join any writing-based clubs. Oftentimes I was the only Black kid there, even when I did manage to join, I felt so out of place, so uninspired, so focused on. Yet I was in every club photo, being called for every photo as if it posed as the perfect opportunity to showcase “diversity”- whatever that means. I chose this Trust because I believe it's an effective way to integrate black leadership roles within our academic community, meanwhile spreading awareness to every member of UW, staff and students alike. The power of Black students having a platform to express themselves in unquantifiable. A lot of adults say that the youth don't want to read but maybe if there was something worth reading about, we’d be interested. A newspaper opens a whole new realm of opportunities, not only for the contents within the paper but the Black leaders who are at the core of the club, It gives an opportunity for Black students to take on various roles; editorial services, photography, writers, publishers and alike are able to come together, young Black minds finally have a collective to collaborate on literary ideas ( it also looks amazing on job applications and resumes ) . This idea will contribute to challenging anti-Black racism efforts by providing an outlet of expression for Black people and a stream of awareness that is accessible by all members of UW. You'd be surprised how much Black students had to say if given the chance to. Countless unread snapchat group chats between my friends and I hold some of the most profound texts you’d ever read, heartbreaking stories/reflections posing as a revelation of epiphanies. We’d always like to quote Gil Scott-Heron and say “[Our]revolution will not be televised”, but imagine if it was, or at least written. Although I can happily admit that (generally speaking) as an academic society we’ve come ‘far’ in terms of exposing/addressing racism, still, so much of racism is layered in disgruntled undertones or subtle looks and remarks under one's breath when looking at Black people- at me, in the halls. I commit to speaking up for myself and all those who fall victim to anti-Black racism and continually spreading awareness on campus, whether attending rallies, joining black-led clubs/organizations, or even simply starting a conversation among peers about how to conclude the non-fictional story of racism.

 

I chose this Trust based on a past interaction with my aunt, her Black son, my cousin, had been falsely accused of stealing another student's phone. She told me how she and the school bickered back and forth about the facts vs. the fictions, and she ultimately proved that he was even present at the alleged scene at the time of the incident. Both my aunt and cousin were exhausted and embarrassed over how long the incident was dragged on, they felt like they were talking to walls (the administration at their school. Afterwards, she was encouraged to speak of this occurrence with the School Board and beyond to spread awareness that racist and stereotypical attitudes towards Black people are still highly prevalent in our school systems. She received a half-assed apology as a response which was not due justice. As a reflection of that incident, I got to thinking of ways that Back people can more easily/directly reach people in positions of power, in not only WRDSB, but the Region as a whole. My idea was to create a Region wide meaning ( (i.e in a virtual setting ie a zoom conference) in which concerned Black Citizens and allies in challenging anti-Black racism have the opportunity to express their concerns (previously submitted in a question forum, i.e google forms); to the respective recipient of their concern (for example if the question is directed towards City Council, the Head of WRDSB etc ). This question/concern will then be answered/discussed during the meetings. I believe that this trust will contribute to challenging anti-Black racism in Waterloo Region by allowing a wider outlet for Black people to express themselves to others within our communities. Too often are our concerns tossed aside or unaddressed by people who hold the power to make a change. In the case of My aunt and cousin the false accuser should've been- at the very least- suspended for their allegations but instead got off scot free. If the situation received more attention, or was perhaps brought up with WRDSB, maybe they're would've been due justice for my cousin but it’s as if they don't want to be reached/bothered with catering to Black issues. The whole situation definitely felt like a feat for my family, especially my cousin who don't understand why someone would single him out and lie about him. Although, with an opportunity such as this, it grants access for the Black community to be taken seriously, for it draws attention to anti-Black racists and acts of racism within our region. As a future Human Rights Lawyer, I will be an advocate for minorities. As a Black woman, I am affiliated with the challenges that people of colour face on a daily basis. The boundaries, limitations and societal struggles placed on communities with diverse ethnic groups and cultures are ones that I am very familiar with, it's a tale that I know all too well, yet a narrative that I am determined to change. I commit to sponsoring change within The Region of Waterloo, and fostering awareness in not only Ontario, but our nation and beyond.

Document 1: Trust Request for University of Waterloo

Depression among Black men is often unspoken pain that deeply affects the health and quality of life of Black people. Black males, deal with societal pressure around their skin tone and toxic masculinity around counseling and mental health. Black men deal with a constellation of racism-related stressors, like discrimination, stereotypes, mass incarceration, and police brutality. These stressors degrade their emotional and mental well-being to various degrees. When paired with social norms and ideas about masculinity that require men to remain “strong,” dealing with this harsh reality raises the risk of depression.

 

The topic of Black male's mental health is Many Black men may hold on to masculine ideals to fight against emotional distress. In our world today Black people have been stripped of our humanity, including the right to express the full range of human emotions. Historically, the enslaved were violently deterred from expressing emotional distress or mental illness. We must recognize that the dominant ideals of manhood that tell Black men not to be vulnerable are rooted in white patriarchy and oppression.

 

Why it's important to recognize the signs and raise awareness? At the University of Waterloo, students must be prioritized and feel welcomed and safe in their school environment. Raising awareness of Mental health especially regarding Black males can help Black males deal with their problems. Males must have a sense of community that can allow males to learn how to cope and express themselves without feeling like they’re fighting this battle alone or deemed as “weak” or “feminine”. At the University of Waterloo, having more Black male educators can help and motivate other Black males. The University of Waterloo should help raise more awareness by creating events where this topic can be talked about. Within mental health week, there should be a day where it's dedicated to raising awareness about Black male's mental health as it’s a very important topic.

 

Personally, as a female understanding what my male counterparts go through is extremely important for me to understand including others. The reason why I chose this trust/action item was that I feel like Black male's mental health is something that people tend to ignore and not spoken about as much as it should be. There are many ways I can contribute to the Black mental health by making sure the school forms a therapy group or counseling one on one sessions and I could help spread awareness around black mental health and guide those to the services that need it.

 

Document 2: Trust Request for Region of Waterloo

Creating resources for white people to learn and talk about race and racism in our community is very important as it will help raise awareness and provide positive feedback for community members.

 

The reason why I chose this trust/action item was that I truly believe that it is extremely important to educate those who may face the challenges of understanding racism in their community, it's important this day in age that adults are educated on modern-day racism, having these resources available will help the overall parents pass their knowledge on to their children. It's all about creating this cycle which allows families to build and learn from one another. As talking about racism can be a challenge to explain to children, it's important that there can be ways to make educating on the topic easier.

 

Creating a service that provides resources and guidance and is very beneficial for communities as it will help bring people together. In the region of Waterloo, there are many cultures and races, Waterloo has a lot of diverse people, people from all over the globe.

 

It's important to recognize how we can help white people as the topic of racism can be challenging for many. Focusing on a question like what does "white anti-racist" mean? How can guilt get in the way, how can this learning befit the community?

 

Personally, there are many ways I could contribute as a belief I would ensure to help raise awareness by amplifying my voice. We need to be working toward a bold and powerful vision for liberation, not just an end to police murder, there are many ways of working together as a community can help fight against anti-black racism. Some examples include supporting Black organizations. White activists need to strike a balance between accountability to Black organizers and taking initiative. There are lots of roles for white people to play in ending white supremacy, and we must move other white people who aren’t already working for racial justice.

The Trust I have submitted to the University of Waterloo is, “The reviewal and reform of all introductory history courses at UWaterloo, to challenge the erasure of Black History in education”. I chose this action item because the erasure of Black History is currently exemplified through the lack of education among universities in Canada. This action plan is created with the intent to address the blatant neglect and omission of the teaching of Black History, as one should not have to participate in a specified ‘Black History’ course to receive education and knowledge of the accurate rather than ‘White washed’ history of Canada. I felt this trust to be once of importance as often Black History is completely omitted from the education curriculum, at all educational levels. Universities solution to this is to implement Black History courses. Although I feel these courses are important regarding the in-depth education of Black history in order to provide representation and challenge anti-Black racism, these classes should not be the sole source of Black History. One should not have to take Black History to counter and rewrite their false colonialist perspective of history in Canada. Black history should be taught especially in introductory classes because Black history simply is a foundational aspect of history in Canada.

 

The submitted trust will initially review the introductory history courses at the University of waterloo, as a reviewal and evaluation is necessary before reform can occur. I believe that the reviewal of introductory history courses should by reviewed under the discretion, consultation and evaluate of Black faculty and students. I believe this because those who created the conflicting curriculum contributing to anti-Black racism, cannot be relied upon to reform said curriculum. As stated by Bero (2020) One of the effective tools of Canada’s denial has been historical revisionism, which sees the country frequently painting its past atrocities in favourable light”. The article written by Bero (2020) emphasizes that “Canada’s education systems have no standardized curriculum for teaching African Canadian history”. These curriculums are praising White colonialism, whilst completely ommitting the fact that Canada is not innocent in the oppression of Black people. Included in the trust is not only the reviewal but reform of these courses. It is not enough to simply acknowledge the ignorance of omission of Black history, they need to be revised as well. As stated by Bero teachers probably never miss a chance to celebrate Canada’s role in the First World War, but rarely do students learn that the slave trade was practiced in New France going all the way back to the 1600s or that the buying and selling of slaves was advertised regularly in Canadian newspapers”. (2020) American colonialists are being praised by teachers and professors when teaching Canadian history, completely omitting the prevalence of Canada’s contribution to the enslavement and oppression of Black Individuals.

 

This Trust will contribute to the challenging of anti-Black racism at the University of Waterloo, by removing the current ‘White washing’ of our curriculum. The introductory courses are just a start, Black individuals need to be represented throughout our entire education system. To start, the teaching of Canada’s history needs to be accurate and requires immediate reviewal and reformation. This will eventually result in history students entering the field of choice with reduced bias an ignorance, hopefully encouraging them as well, to challenge anti-Black racism. This Trust represents my own commitment to challenge anti-Black racism. I will continue to educate myself, so I can better educate others. I will also continue to confront anti-Black racism, especially toward those in positions of power. Senior executives at the University of Waterloo must be aware of the anti-Black racism as it stands not only on their campus, but embedded within their curriculum. In order to be an advocate in challenging anti-Black racism, I must also challenge those around me, in this case the University of Waterloo.

 

The Trust I have chosen to submit to document 2 is the “Representation for Black individuals on the Regional Council of Waterloo”. I chose this action item because there is currently no Black representation on the regional council, in fact there is no diversity at all. I find this lack of representation to be incredible ignorant and oppressive. I feel as though we cannot challenge anti-Black racism in the region if all the people in power are White people. I chose this topic because the lack of Black representation across Canada is an issue of anti-Black racism, and exists on a smaller scale, in this case regional. I do not believe that White people can be the sole source of power in a diverse society that represents equality and equity. I chose this topic to because I believe that among a board of directors or council, there must be equal representation and racial diversity in order to challenge anti-Black racism. I feel as though this lack of representation not only reflects ignorance, but it also represents how lack of representation is directly linked to lack of opportunity.

 

This Trust will aim to have the elected officials of the region reconsider and evaluate why they do not have a single Black person on their council. Officials need to be aware of how their actions and privilege is contributing to anti-Black racism across the region. As a result of this Trust, there should be racial diversity among those creating regional and municipal policies. With lack of representation, there will be no reform. This Trust also aims to address the lack of opportunity in the region, this is also something that must be reviewed as a result of the submitted Trust. Over 15, 000 individuals in the region of Waterloo are Black, yet there is not a single Black individual on council. (Region of Waterloo, 2016). Therefore this action item is more than justified, it is necessary.

 

The Trust to increase representation for Black individuals on the Regional council of Waterloo will challenge anti-Black racism in several ways. One being that it will ensure Black voices and are being heard and respected. Having Black representation on council will encourage Black individuals to feel more comfortable voicing their concerns to council members. The concerns of Black individuals are often overlooked and dismissed by White individuals in power, which I believe to instill fear and intimidation amongst the Black community. By questioning our leadership methods and demanding reform of this methods, we are ultimately challenging the dismissal of Black people in politics, which is a blatantly anti-Black racist act. We cannot eliminate anti-Black racism if the very people in power are the once contributing to, and exemplifying, White privilege.

 

A way in which I can personally commit to challenging anti-Black racism, starts with standing behind the Trust to increase Black representation in politics. I must continue to challenge those in power, as corrupt government and politics are often formed by White people in positions of power. I cannot argue that anti-Black racism must be challenged without questioning those in charge. This is not only an issue within the Waterloo region, this is just a small scale example of what is happening. I can also commit to challenging anti-Black racism by educating those around me. I must continue to advocate for Black representation, and not stop doing so beyond this course. A personal commitment of mine is to not be complicit in anti-Black racism, as this itself is a racist act. I can challenge anti-Black racism is by challenging my peers and colleagues. Another way I am able to challenge anti-Black racism is by educating myself. I was not aware of the blatant lack of representation within local governments before this assignment, when I was able to make the direct observation. I can personally commit to challenging anti-Black racism by challenging myself, those around me, and those in power.

UW Racial Equity & Awareness Week

*This idea could be further developed to also raise awareness for other minority groups on campus.

 

UW Racial Equity & Awareness Week is an event hosted by WUSA’s service Racial Advocacy for Inclusion, Solidarity and Equity (RAISE). It is a week-long event meant to run different activities to help raise awareness and provide insight on all aspects of Black culture throughout the university, including all partner campuses. The goal of the event is to, each day, target 1 or more behaviours, actions, or events that have long given and continue to give place for racial aggressions against Black individuals. The activities can include but are not limited to, conferences/TED talks, fund-raisers, support groups, “walls of experience” (a dedicated space at each campus for Black individuals to write their negative experiences or moments when they have seen others confront anti-Black racism), inspiring social media challenges, promotion of Black entrepreneurs, giveaways, among many others. The overall purpose is to a) allow Black individuals at the University of Waterloo to make themselves be heard and reshape the perspective society has created on their culture and b) educate non-Black individuals correctly and refocus their view on Black culture so that they can do the same with others. I chose this idea of a Racial Equity & Awareness Week because I believe that both educating and engaging are necessary to truly make a change and start eradicating anti-Black racism. Some activities more deeply & realistically educate everyone at the university, while others put their new knowledge to the test by encouraging them to engage with real-life circumstances and create innovative solutions to confront anti-Black racism. I believe this event creates the perfect “education to engagement ratio” needed for students, staff, alumni, and everyone at the University of Waterloo to make a change in the society we live in today.

 

These activities create an opportunity for all students, staff, alumni, and every person at the university to come together, hopefully leaving behind all the biases that have risen through history and made their way into our society. The activities are meant to create bonds; truthful, long-lasting, and empathic connections between those who unfortunately have long been separated by racial distinctions and aggressions.

 

I will seek and do everything under my control to be a part of these bonds and ensure that others are able to confront the bias that has been long affecting our families, friends, perspectives, cultures, society, lives. My commitment to challenging anti-Black racism at the university is to stand up for our classmates and alumni, professors, and staff members; to eradicate society’s wrongful view and their feeling that they are a “minority” and help create an environment of racial equity in our campus.

 

Trust Request for the Region of Waterloo

Mobile App: Waterloo’s Equicentre

The Equicentre app is a mobile app designed by the Region of Waterloo to help minimize (and hopefully eradicate) the aggressions and racial inequities that still take place towards Black individuals. Equicentre is, as its name states, a “centre” looking to create an environment of equity for Black individuals that use it. The app’s overall purpose is to target racial inequities in both in-person and social media interactions. Although its main purpose is to fight anti-Black aggressions, the app also serves as a digital workspace for non-Black individuals to both educate themselves and help educate others and provide ways in which they have or people in Waterloo could confront racial aggressions against fellow Black individuals. It has 2 main options: discover and learn. The discover option contains upcoming events, professional/entrepreneurial opportunities for Black individuals, support and mental health sources, community discussion forums, social media hashtags, fund-raisers, and many more resources that combine in one space all the information Black Canadian individuals might want or need, as well as awareness activities for non-Black individuals to participate in. The learn option provides resources to educate yourself on the topic of anti-Black racism, TED talks about how to challenge it, important figures in the challenging of racial inequities, historical facts, and much more.

 

Most of us are usually on our phones or electronic devices for most of our day. Mobile apps are fun, interactive, and accessible, which is what most youth and young adults look for in their daily tasks. I believe that having useful facts and resources along with fun and captivating events in a single accessible space drastically changes the pace at which we all become educated and confront anti-Black racism.

 

Waterloo’s Equicentre app provides anyone with access to an electronic device and an internet connection with the opportunity to not only educate themselves on how they can confront racial inequities, but also provide ideas on how they can stop aggressions as well as enjoy fun events that help eradicate these societal biases against Black individuals and communities. All this and much more, from the screen of your device.

 

I recognize that we still have a long way to go when it comes to completely eradicate anti-Black racism from our society and country, but I believe that citizens would be much more motivated to do so if they saw their leaders and authorities take action with them. My commitment to challenging anti-Black racism within Canadian society is that I will observe more, analyze, and react accordingly. I will not let “small incidents” go by unnoticed or stay quiet before situations in which authorities should intervene. I believe and hope that we, leaders and citizens, will all be able to stand up for the people who are part of our community as much as “whites” are but have been minoritized long enough.

To Executive Leadership at the University of Waterloo,

As a Black student who lives in residence at the University of Waterloo, the diversity here is not the greatest. As a result, I feel very isolated and not included in many things. That’s why I believe that these trust requests are a great way of expressing the things that need to be changed at the University for the Black community. My trust request is looking into the future for the Black Community here at Waterloo. My trust request is that the University should educate the young generation on understanding the effects of Anti-Black Racism by creating classes meant to educate students on eliminating stereotypes and effectively reducing the role of the N-word in society.

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The classes that we have here present a way of informing students on the injustices happening but I feel as if it isn’t enough to change our society today. By taking action at the University, we can inspire other universities to do the same. Also, by presenting the University of Waterloo as an inclusive place for all, we can improve the diversity issues that I believe we lack.

As seen in the media today, change begins with the younger generation. But that change cannot happen unless we educate them. The concept of stereotypes has been passed on through generations. The hate of another’s skin colour does not begin at birth, it is nurtured through media, parental figures or the surroundings. As such, we need to do our best to eliminate this hate. There are many stereotypes of the Black Community that are known. It is a result of systemic racism and it will always be present in our society. I believe that part of hurtful racism is expressed through the N-word.

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It is an oppressive word and it is found to still be used to this day in spiteful ways. Many Black rappers have tried to take back the word by using it in songs, but it only allows for non-black people to use the word without thinking of the history and the oppressive roots behind the word. There are cases in the media today that demonstrate that non-black people using this word as racial slurs against Black people in arguments and aggressive situations. Because this word has been used so casually, the historical roots and pain that the word encompasses have been lost in the younger generation.

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The University of Waterloo should educate the young generation on understanding the effects of Anti-Black Racism by creating classes meant to educate students on eliminating stereotypes and effectively reducing the role of the N-word in society. By doing this, we can take action and ensure a better future for the Black Community at the University of Waterloo. In June 2020, a White Professor had used the N-word at the St. Jerome’s Campus at the University. There were no consequences for her actions, and it shows that the Black Community isn’t necessarily protected at the University. In order to prevent such situations from arising, the N-word’s use must be eradicated from society.

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Another thing to mention is the enormous role that stereotypes have on the Black community. Stereotypes, profiling and implicit bias all have a role in not just the mental health of the Black Community but as well as in their daily lives. Many face problems in finding work due to the stereotypes and prejudice built up against them. Not only that, but while in the workplace, they experience different scenarios of microaggressions. By educating students at the University of Waterloo, we can eliminate the appearances of these stereotypes in our future workplace environments. Although Canada is one of the most diverse countries in the world, we still need to work towards a goal of equality for everyone including Bipoc who live here.

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To Executive Leaders in The Region of Waterloo,

 In essence, I personally feel as if there are instances in a school and work environment where people encounter stereotypes and biases and brush them off because they do not recognize them as serious enough. But because of the casualness of these remarks or in face of casual racism, we should acknowledge that it is serious and can end up affecting the mindset of individuals who encounter them. My trust request is that The Region of Waterloo should encourage the education of microaggressions that are present in workplace and school environments by making workshops on such mandatory for workers and teachers alike.

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The reason I have chosen this trust request is that I have personally encountered these implicit biases or microaggressions in both a school and workplace environment. It affects the way that I see myself and others and I personally feel as if that is not okay. It is not easy to change the way someone thinks so easily but we should work towards the goal of changing people’s mindsets. Especially since there should be a nurturing environment in workplaces and schools to ensure the growth of individuals. In the face of the activism that we are seeing in social media and on the news, we should do more to help the wellbeing of the Black community so that they themselves understand that these microaggressions are not okay and to prevent them from happening in the future.

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Microaggressions are manifestations of people’s biases against marginalized groups that leave victims of such feeling uncomfortable or insulted. Unconsciously, I believe that people do this but in order to end these micro-aggressions, changing the way that people view these marginalized groups is the first step. For the Black community, these microaggressions have a way of influencing the way they may feel in particular environments such as workplaces and school environments. In fear of speaking out and conforming to such stereotypes, many choose to stay silent and it affects their livelihoods.

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In the moments that these Black individuals experience the workplace and school environment microaggressions, this may also have an effect on the younger generations after hearing what they may have to go through. They may feel the need to not do well in school because that may be expected of them. As well, they may not want to engage in school or pursue a degree because they may not want to have to deal with the expectations that they come with. That’s not to say that other races do not experience microaggressions themselves. But with everything happening in the media today, I feel like we should start with the community that is being put in the most spotlight currently which is the Black Community.

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This trust request will help challenge anti-black racism because it will lead to changing the mindset of individuals by implementing a strategy for reducing the frequency of microaggressions and the appearance of Stereotypes. If we do this, it is challenging anti-black racism in our own little way. This may lead to similar workshops being enacted in other cities such as cities in the GTA. By teaching adults how to handle, manage and prevent microaggressions from occurring, we are able to teach the younger generation as well.

Despite the actions being taken in media such as activism and protests, as well as petitions, I believe that starting smaller will increase our chances of combatting anti-Black racism in our daily lives. Racism is seen everywhere but by taking action with this trust request, I believe that we will be able to prevent it from occurring in comfortable spaces. And in doing this, we may be able to get rid of it permanently, hopefully in the near future.

The trust that I chose specifically for the University of Waterloo was to create a drop-in service specifically for Black students for counselling services, financial supports, etc. I come from Niagara College and they have a great service for Indigenous people to hang out, talk, and study but they also provide services. I think that this would be great for Black students in the university. Not only would this service provide a safe place for Black students to hang out and study, but it would also provide counselling sessions and supports and resources. By supports and resources, this could be financial services (help creating budgets, helping with credit, etc.), referrals to these services for someone who will be graduating, referrals to support for LGBTQ+ students, help for drug addiction, and trauma supports.

 

This service would help a variety of Black individuals. This service could help contribute to anti-Black racism at the University of Waterloo because it could set up days where there are educational speakers, exercises, documentary showings, etc. at the Hagey Hall Hub or any other hub or area in the university. This would help contribute by not only allowing Black students but being welcome to people who want to learn more about what is being talked about on that particular day, (i.e. March 22, 2021 at 6:00p.m. – African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross documentary will be shown in the Hagey Hall Hub). These events can be advertised through bulletin boards, online, and on posters around the school. An optional idea that can be done would be to do a voluntary donation on the day of event – which could be done by non-perishable food items, money donations that could go towards the service, etc. There are so many opportunities that would come from a program like this, not only for Black students but for people who want to learn about anti-Black racism and allies.

 

My personal commitment to challenging anti-Black racism at the University would be to attend rallies for anti-Black racism, continue being an ally for Black people, and continue classes that teach about Black history, anti-Black racism. There is a course I am already hopefully planning on taking called “Black and free”. I will continue to be an advocate for the Black Lives Matter Movement. I will continue being an ally to my friends. I will continue educating myself and learning about Black history, Black social movements, and everything in between. Once I move to Waterloo, I will be attending events that the University of Waterloo holds for Black people, whether that be marches

 

The trust that I chose for the Waterloo Region is to create and establish a service for Black and Indigenous people to go to for resume building, help with job searching, workshops, and certificates. I chose this trust because there are not services specifically for Black people. I do not know if we should consider it to be one trust or two because these two groups would benefit from these services made specifically for them. I personally know Black people that would attend these services faster than a service like “Job Gym” because it is specifically tailored to them and they would feel more inclusive. This service would be great for people who find it hard to write a resume and need help to build one and have a hard time finding employment; or need help to get certificates like Smart Serve or Safe Food Handler’s, and workshops based on employment, resume building, etc.

 

This will contribute to challenging anti-Black racism because a centre like this would bring inclusivity to Black people; it would also challenge anti-Black racism by helping so many individuals who are in poverty by helping them gain employment. According to the Government of Canada’s website, Black people make up approximately 18% of racialized persons living in poverty (National Council of Welfare Reports, 2020). This kind of agency/ program would allow Black individuals to feel more comfortable coming to a specific place to help them.

 

My personal commitment to challenging anti-Black racism is to continue being an ally to Black people. Being an ally means to continue to stick up for Black rights whether that be in my own home by teaching my own children about racism and how to challenge it and towards my family members with racial micro aggressions; this also includes challenging anti-Black racism in the community. Challenging anti-Black racism in the community could be anything from attending marches for the Black Lives Matter Movement, standing up for Black people who are being racially profiled by people in the public, including police; this also means signing petitions and donating to Black specific programs. Some Black initiated donations in Waterloo or surrounding areas could be the Black Community Solidarity Fund or Justice for Regis. I will also continue to support Black owned businesses. I currently buy handmade clothing/ masks from a Black friend who owns a small business from home. Once moving to Waterloo, myself, I would look up and research more Black owned businesses to support.

To Executive Leadership at the University of Waterloo,

This year, following the murder of George Floyd, countries from around the globe (including Canada) gathered to protest in the name of Black Lives Matter. Not only did citizens march in the streets to physically protest, but thousands of universities, schools, faculties and businesses also released statements regarding the Black Lives Matter movement. Although there was no released official statement found written by the University of Waterloo, there are several links to various events challenging anti-Black racism, open to not just students and staff, but faculty as well. However, reading each of these titles, many workshops are focusing on taking responsibility in the anti-racist movement, understanding racism and racial microaggressions and overall, the responsibility that comes with equity and inclusivity. Although each one of these workshops entails an excellent opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to educate themselves and understand racism; the University of Waterloo should understand that equity and liberation of Black students and faculty is not overnight propaganda that can be paraded for an abbreviated period, only to return to announcements regarding such topics, and having no ratifications. The University of Waterloo should and must take into consideration everything they have done to ensure that the physical act of equity, equality and respect of representation is accounted for. This does not just begin with the dean of each faculty, but also the staff and especially the police officers and security guards who are meant to instill the law in affiliation with the University of Waterloo’s outlined conduct.

 

As a student at the University of Waterloo, the University faculty has a responsibility to rightfully represent Black professors, authors and literacy analysts affiliated with the University. It is respectfully requested that the school should take action to provide a platform and let students as well as other members of the academy hear what Black representatives have to say for themselves rather than being spoken for.

 

The human rights, equity and inclusion division associated with the University, aim to: “bring members of our campus community together to facilitate understanding and address systemic barriers to equity, inclusion, and decolonization” (The University of Waterloo 2020). The president of the University has created an Anti-Racism taskforce (PART). Their statement on the University’s home page recognizes the importance of diverse perspectives and identities, and that anti-racism must be engrained in every aspect of the school’s society. Under their tab regarding the engagement of “BIPOC” community members, through the development of PART, they have held discussions with more than 40 “BIPOC” individuals who have expressed their interest in challenging anti-Racism at the University of Waterloo. Under a section, they have listed “BIPOC” employees speaking about the limitations in their careers. The drop-down menu provides very brief bullet points that do not seem to aim liberation and address how to amplify these “BIPOC” voices, but rather, short general problems that contribute to the umbrella term of “BIPOC.”

 

To ensure that each person of color's voice is heard, especially that of Black individuals, the University should aim to have each Black, Indigenous and persons of color receive their own platform because as they have mentioned before, PART recognizes the “diverse perspectives and identities.” For example, the workshops that were mentioned earlier are a good start, but to better amplify Black voices, the school can start with UW academic affiliated literature as it coincides with students learning from each faculty at the University. To ensure that the University of Waterloo is striving to give a platform to lift Black voices and give them the respectable recognition they deserve, a new workshop is to be considered. In reference to future events, monthly literature workshops should be held to dedicate the Black professors, authors, editors and literacy analysts to teaching and constructing conferences with students about their work, dedication and commitment at the University of Waterloo. Each presenter should have the opportunity to amplify their voice and present what it means to be a Black person representing literature for students to learn and study from at the University. This workshop would give a platform to Black representatives and allowing their work to be perceived the way they anticipated it to be. The importance of these workshops and the relation to equity and equality would advance what the University of Waterloo has aimed to provide through PART, and rather than blanketing racism under various groups of ethnicities, appreciate each ethnicity individually, starting with Black leaders in literature whom students are studying from in their classes.

 

To see a better future for this campus, the following list provides demands for the faculty:

1. Consider leaving the term “BIPOC” and instead take the time to individually give a platform to each person of color, amplifying their voice through separate platforms to ensure “diverse perspectives and identities”

2. Create workshops amplifying Black representatives affiliated with the University of Waterloo

3. Consider beginning workshops with Black literature representatives given that students are studying from diverse authors

Signed on October 30th 2020

 

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The history of racism in Canada is no secret. Countless times Canadians have attempted to defend themselves trying to prove that the impacts of colonialism and racism have not affected the North. However, Canada is not exempt from racism in any way. For example, the country’s history of negligence and disrespect towards indigenous peoples and their land is one of many instances that prove Canada indeed has just a racist past like any other country, and that colonialism has indeed affected the country. Unfortunately, the economy of Canada has advanced so far that it has practically hidden any aspects of systemic racism. And the denial of Canada’s involvement only magnifies the fact that Canada still holds racist ideologies. This trust request solely focuses on the history of racism in education systems. Racism and discrimination have made its way through school districts, especially in schools registered with WRDSB. With many conversations and minimal follow-through, staff, guidance counsellors and School Administrators have not met their goal.

 

Education systems were built on the grounds of colonialism to serve those who were not White. Black, Indigenous and Brown peoples were disrupted by the detrimental effects Colonialism brought, and in 2020, students from all over WRDSB who not White are, are still facing its repercussions. The fact of the matter is that the history of colonialist roots was meant to ultimately suppress Indigenous and Black peoples. This year, following to eruption of the Movement Black Lives Matter, WRDSB took to acknowledge that any sort of anti-Black racism, racial harassment, bigotry discrimination exists in the schools registered under the WRDSB. As they addressed the situation, they also spoke about the concerns of allegation regarding racism and have assured that any report is being referred to a School Administrator for follow up. Although WRDSB has written that they have introduced the Human Rights and Equality department for addressing discrimination, students across the school board cannot simply wait for racist remarks to be called out upon them, only to report the problem and expect immediate repercussions. Those kinds of incidents should have already been set in place long ago. What students need is continuous acts presented by school staff and administrators that racism and discrimination are eliminated in classrooms and education buildings.

 

To ensure the safety of students who are not of White ethnicity, the Ministry of Education must require every staff member under the WRDSB, to attend workshops for supporting Black and Indigenous students. Spending time to learn and understand the history that falls under prejudicial remarks that could become a detriment to a Black or Indigenous child’s learning ability. The Ministry of Education must require each Staff and School Administrative member to acknowledge that education buildings are given areas for students to learn without facing consequences due to their skin colour. These workshops will be set in place at the same time in which students receive a day off for Professional Activity/Development Days (PD/PA days). These given days provide an excellent opportunity for teachers to receive their education about the students they teach and understand how the history of systemic racism and affected education systems, and how small solutions can be implemented every day in classrooms to void discrimination at all costs. Guidance counsellors will also be required to join these workshops as they provide the most crucial assistance, mental health and academic counselling. Staff and School Administrators do not realize the endangerment towards a student's mental health when it comes to the fuel of racism. Guidance counsellors should be equipped with the knowledge of social support and psychological adjustment concerning Black, Brown and Indigenous students. Counsellors should be aware of symptoms and aim to provide care effective immediately rather than providing information that would not be beneficial towards any prejudice the student has faced, nor facilitate mental health assistance. With the proposal of these workshops properly set-in place, WRDSB can work towards a better and brighter future for students across the board.

Signed on October 30th, 2020

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND:

“I hate racial discrimination most intensely and all its manifestations. I have fought all my life; I fight now, and will do so until the end of my days. Even although I now happen to be tried by one, whose opinion I hold in high esteem, I detest most.” Nelson Mandela.

 

Nelson Mandela, one of the many leaders who have challenged racism by having introduced ways to reduce discrimination based on race and ethnicity. For a very long time, the Black people were denied basic rights and were discriminated in all settings of life, be it in schools or universities, workplace, public places etc. We, at the very basic level can do very little in order to improve the lives of racially and ethnically diverse people, but we should never refrain ourselves from doing our bit.

 

TRUST REQUEST 1:

University of Waterloo as an educational institution welcomes more than 1000s of students every year from more than 120 countries across the globe. Students call the University their “second home.” But, with so many diverse individuals interacting regularly, there can be scope for racial conflicts. In order to ensure that everyone’s rights are protected and each and every individual grows to his/her full potential and capabilities, the university can implement the following possible action:

  1. Explicit lessons on race and conflict resolution should be given to all students: I am a firm believer that when we work together, in a collaborative manner, is only when we can expect the society to change. One cannot work in isolation and expect things to change overnight. Racism is a deep-rooted problem of our society, but we need to ensure that Black people get their due rights, and no longer accept any kind of favoritism towards the White people. As someone rightly said, “change takes place from within.” We need to first familiarize ourselves with our own thoughts and opinions, only then we can spread awareness among masses. Hence, we should start working from the grass-root level by first educating ourselves, our peers and people whom we interact daily. University provides us with the perfect platform. In my opinion, in order to challenge racist thoughts, University should devote one day of a week (preferably a weekend) to hold interactive sessions and workshops on how to challenge racism. This can be a daylong event whereby, students, faculty members and other staff work together to make posters, banners, graphics, slogans, etc. that can be used to spread awareness. Students can also be divided into small groups to present various aspects of racism, how to challenge it, instances of sufferings of Black people, ways to reduce this social divide via campaigns, power point presentations, etc. An important highlight of this lesson would be to declare it as a non-graded course and treat as an extra activity as this will ensure more active involvement and marks/grades will never be the priority. My personal commitment towards this initiative would be to reach out to as many students and staff members as possible and encourage them to contribute towards this initiative. Gradually we can expect people to enroll in large numbers and someday this can be one of the biggest community outreach lessons.

 

TRUST REQUEST 2:

The city of Waterloo is both, an educational and career hub with many reputed Universities offering quality education, along with MNCs offering jobs that will help them grow in their careers and as responsible and independent citizens. Being a pool of opportunities, the city might sometimes as well lead to incidents that raise racial conflicts and disputes. In order to reduce such conflicts, the city can:

 

1. The City of Waterloo can impose a mandatory weekly event on weekends whereby all the citizens of the city can get together and organize various events and functions with each other. This can be a mode of recreation for the people as well as an opportunity to interact with people who are not culturally and ethnically same. The events should not necessarily be something that is related to challenging racism, but simple games with food, dance, gossips etc. where people of all race, backgrounds, genders are welcomed.

 

In such a way everyone will have an opportunity to befriends with people around them. The Black people will also feel secure and have a sense of belonging when they interact with people who respect their culture and ethnicity. This will lead to mutual trusts and understanding which eventually leads to harmony in the city. Conflicts arising due to racial difference will also minimize. Children are the ones who enjoy such kind of events the most. Hence, this will help young children get the exposure to the concept of diversity, racism, and harmony since a very young age and will be able to deal with the issue of racism in a mature manner. The key highlights of this events should be that the citizens should have the autonomy in deciding the kind of events to be organized, the funding for it, and most importantly the rules and regulations to be followed during the social gatherings. There should be minimum influence and indulgence of the government and police.

 

Along with this, the government should encourage the media to report these events that are being organized in the city. This might motivate citizens and government of other provinces and countries to organize such events as well. The way Black people are perceived largely depends on how they are portrayed by the media. Penalties should be imposed if any incident is misrepresented. The only thing Black people expect from being a part of such diverse community is to be respected, loved and considered to be equal as others. Involving them in community level decision making processes, such as a basic decision on the timings of a local park (closing and opening time), makes them feel that their opinions matter and they form an integral part of the society.

The Region of Waterloo might consider implementing the above-mentioned suggestions in order to ensure peace and harmony among heterogeneous communities.

Trust Request for the University of Waterloo

The action that I wish to see taken by the University of Waterloo is as follows. I wish to see the University of Waterloo host seminars and/or conferences where they invite Black speakers to speak of their experiences with racism in our community. By doing so I hope for the University to foster a safe environment for students and faculty members to learn about racism, and learn about how they can combat it.

 

I chose this as my Trust Request as I feel like there is a large percentage of the population at Waterloo that doesn’t have much experience with Racism. I know that I personally didn’t learn much about anti-Black racism, (and how alive it is today) until very recently. This shows how there are so many people who might not realize that they see racism on a regular basis.

 

I believe that by hosting these seminars and conferences, more and more students at the University of Waterloo would have their eyes opened to the racism faced by Black people all over the world. These seminars would educate students and staff on the dangers that Black people face every day, and would give Black speakers the chance to teach us non-Black people how to best fight against racism. This request doesn’t seem overly difficult to accomplish, as the University of Waterloo has plenty of space that could be used for a conference, and they have such a vast network of students, faculty, and alumni that finding speakers should not be an issue. Especially for a topic as important as racism and Black Lives Matter. I believe that this request would have a large, and positive, impact on the University of Waterloo. Education is what this institution is all about, and by holding these seminars and/or conferences the University would not only be educating their students. They would be fostering a safer environment both on and off campus. These seminars would teach everyone how they can stand up to racism, and as such I believe that the racism faced by Black students and staff would diminish significantly. Hearing the stories of speakers could also give Black students the confidence needed to speak up about racism that they have faced on campus. As the University continues to hold the seminars the gains would grow exponentially, as Waterloo graduates would be able to go into the workforce and enact these same changes. The positives of these conferences and seminars would be immense, and I personally see no downsides to holding them. These seminars also give the opportunity for local Black business owners, artists, and creators to speak and gain some publicity for their project or product.

 

As a student at the University of Waterloo there is a fair amount that I can do to help challenge Anti-Black Racism. Firstly I want to establish myself as someone who is always willing to listen and help, and if anyone is having a problem facing racism then I would be there to support them in an instant if they ask. I also want to ensure that I never assume I know everything, or that I know even close to everything there is to know about racism. By having this mindset I am always able to learn more, I am able to find new ways to fight racism, and I never accidentally dismiss someone because their story of racism isn’t one I had heard before. I also want to ensure I support Black student initiatives both on and off campus, so that their incredible ideas, and work, can make the world a better place.

 

I believe that by holding conferences and seminars, the University of Waterloo would be able to vastly improve the social environment both on and off campus, and I hope to see these conferences implemented soon.

 

Trust Request for the Region of Waterloo

My trust request for the Region of Waterloo is as follows. I wish to see the Waterloo City Council hold monthly or bi-monthly town halls (virtual or in person), that focus on listening to Black members of the community. Where members of the community can speak up about the racism and oppression that they face. I wish for the Black members of the community to be given a platform through these town halls where they will be able to expose any racism they face so that we can foster a safer environment for everyone.

 

I chose this as my trust request for a variety of reasons. I believe that one of the only ways to combat racism is to expose it, and there is no better way to expose racism and oppression than to listen to those who are most impacted by it. As the Waterloo City Council is entirely comprised of white people, they are not nearly as aware of the effects of racism as the Black members of the community are. While that is another issue in and of itself, one of the ways the City Council could work on helping the Black communities in Waterloo would be by giving them an opportunity to inform us of their problems. By listening to what the Black community needs, the City of Waterloo will be able to combat oppression and racism in a much easier fashion than if they were simply trying to find solutions at random.

 

I believe that these town halls would be able to implement great change in the Region of Waterloo. In a similar fashion to the conferences and seminars, it would give the opportunity for Black Voices to be heard, however it would be less about educating about racism and more about exposing it in our community. I believe that through this the City would be able to see if perhaps some of their funding is going somewhere that hurts the Black members of the community, and 4 by seeing this they would be able to redirect funding to support Black people. It would also give the City Council the ability to work with local Black businesses, Black activists and Black community members to create events or charities that support them. By working with these activists, businesses, and community members, the Region of Waterloo stands to gain a great deal in terms of culture and community, as everyone would benefit from the changes that would arise from these meetings.

 

As a student who lives in Waterloo there is plenty I can do to challenge Anti-Black Racism in our community. I would ensure that I attend as many of the town halls as possible so that I could hear what the Black community needs from me. I would also support local Black artists and businesses where possible. I would raise awareness for anti-Black racism in our community, and would also attend/help organize BLM protests with the help of Black activists in our community. Finally I would do my best to help educate those in our community who are ignorant of racism, and by doing so I could bring in more people who would assist me in supporting the Black community in Waterloo. By doing all of this, I hope to be able to incite change for the better in the Region of Waterloo, and I hope to be able to have others by my side as I push for a better future.

 

I believe that these town halls would bring lots of improvements to the Region of Waterloo, and I am greatly looking forward to the day that the first one is held.

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