Brampton pledges to join The BlackNorth Initiative to advance its anti-Black racism agenda

BY PAUL JUNOR

The City of Brampton under the leadership of Mayor Patrick Brown has been at the forefront of addressing anti-Black racism.

Brampton City Council approved the creation of the Black African and Caribbean Social, Cultural and Economic Empowerment & Anti-Black Racism Unit on June 10^th, 2020. This unit has already accomplished some positive and proactive things since its inception and aim to:

• Develop an action plan to eradicate systemic anti-Black racism in Brampton.
• With guidance from local community stakeholders, uplift the social, cultural and economic position of Brampton’s Black community.

The City of Brampton issued a press release, which indicates that its City Council had unanimously pledged to be part of The BlackNorth Initiative. The BlackNorth Initiative (BNI) was founded on June 10^th, 2020 and is led by the Canadian Council of Business Leaders against anti-Black systemic racism.

According to its website wwwblacknorthca it is “On a mission to end anti-Black  systemic racism throughout all aspects of our lives by utilizing a business first mind-set. We believe that if corporate Canada can boldly take on the challenge to add gender diversity to Canadian boardrooms and executive suites by declaring policies, setting specific targets, holding itself accountable, it can do the same work to create representation for Black Canadians.”

The press release describes three initiatives that The BlackNorth Initiative has been involved with: business mentorship, homeownership bridge program and a mental health program for Black youth. The celebration of its one-year anniversary was marked with a statement from Wes Hall, Founder and Chair. “In order to welcome a new and truly inclusive era and to create an equitable future for all Canadians, we need to redouble our efforts. Corporate Canada cannot allow complacency or inertia to rob Canada of this historic opportunity. Now more than ever, we need the support of our allies.”

The list of all its accomplishments can be seen on its website. It is fitting that Brampton, which is one of the most culturally diverse and ethnic cities in Canada, is partnering with the BNI. The Equity Office at the City of Brampton will work to ensure fair and equitable treatment of all individuals and promote a harmonious environment both inside the City and for its residents.

Gwyneth Chapman, Senior Advisor, Economic Empowerment and Anti-Black Racism stated in the press release, “The BNI fills and identifies a massive vacuum – the lack of support for Black businesses and professionals in corporate Canada. This is an opportunity for corporations and influencers to assume a level of social responsibility in the elimination of systematic barriers for racialized communities across the country. Their advocacy for success and involvement of Black talent, businesses, youth, and the community is admirable. This is an unprecedented initiative and l am very excited about the possibilities to come.”

Mayor Brown stated, “This pledge reaffirms the City of Brampton’s commitment to end systemic racism in our city. We have a broader perspective and reach into the Black community to listen, listen and commit to making real, impactful changes that will help remove systemic barriers that exist in our city.”

David Barrick, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Brampton stated, ”Working with external organizations, such as the BNI, and building community partnerships will play a crucial role in helping us develop this plan and lean on a network of experts to bring this plan to action.”