Elementary Teachers’ Federation Union calls for action to dismantle barriers facing Black educators and students

BY PAUL JUNOR

The 83,000 strong teachers’ union, Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario has been at the forefront of fighting for an: equitable, inclusive and properly funded public education system. It has been particularly concerned about the issues such as: underfunding of public schools, violence against educational staff, inadequate maintenance of schools, chronic shortage of educational workers and systemic racism that many of its Black educators face.

On Friday, January 31^st, 2025, they issued a press release in anticipation of Black History Month 2025 to draw attention to systemic issues that Black educators and students face. “As Black History Month begins, Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario celebrates the many achievements and lasting contributions of Black Canadians. Black history is woven into the fabric of Canadian history – past, present and future. The accomplishments, strength, and excellence of Black individuals and communities deserve recognition this month, as well as: celebration, respect, and reflection every day of the year. ETFO highlights the fact that the celebration of Black History is a year-round event as the greatness of Black Canadians is intricately connected to Canada’s history for over 400 years.”

“The need to address systemic barriers that Black educators and students face is urgent”

The press release focuses on the often-missing aspects of Black Canada history. It notes, “Black excellence has always been a cornerstone of Canada’s story, yet Black educators and students face ongoing systemic barriers in the education system and society. They must be confronted and dismantled. Discrimination, underrepresentation of Black educators and unequal access to opportunities persist, demanding urgent and collective action.”

There has been push back and opposition to diversity, equity and inclusion programs in Canada, which ETFO wishes to highlight. It knows that equity-seeking and equity-deserving groups from BIPOC communities are vulnerable. The press release notes, “This is particularly crucial as we continue to see a rise in counter movements to decrease diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in both private and public institutions.”

ETFO is concerned about the persistence of ingrained and deeply structural and institutional obstacles that hamper the fight against these: social, educational and racial injustice. The press release notes, “Despite efforts to address anti-Black racism embedded in organizational and institutional structures: policies, procedures, and programs, Black people still disproportionately face discrimination in areas such as education, healthcare, and housing,”

ETFO is aware that these systemic barriers are compounded when diverse social identities are considered. The press release notes, “Black people with multiple intersectional identities, such as: race, gender, or sexuality, face additional forms of oppression.”

ETFO concludes its call for action with words of hope and optimism. “As we work to build a more just society. It is imperative that we continually reflect on the historical ramifications of colonization and actively strive to dismantle anti-Black racism while celebrating and promoting Black excellence. ETFO remains unwavering in its commitment to this work, both within the realm of education and beyond. The federation focuses on implementing systemic changes to confront anti-Black racism, and to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for its Black members.”