What Happens Next? Beyond Black History Month…
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” – African ProverbAs we approach the end of Black History Month, it’s imperative to ask:
what happens next? Now the 28 days are over, does the work of acknowledging and addressing racial inequality stop? The answer is no. Black history, Black culture, and the ongoing struggles for racial equality are not confined to February; they are issues that require attention every day of the year. This article aims to encourage you to continue this journey—keep learning, keep speaking up, and keep demanding change.As we’ve discussed in the previous articles of this series, Black history is filled with resilience, triumph, and struggle. From the contributions of influential Black individuals who helped shape Canadian society to understanding the origins of Black History Month and the significance of symbols like the Negro National Anthem and the Pan-African flag, we’ve come a long way in recognizing the complexity and depth of Black experiences. But the question remains:
what happens now?In today’s labor movement, the fight for racial equality remains a core issue. The work of Black trade unionists continues to highlight the intersection of race and class, calling for inclusive workplaces, accessible opportunities, and fair treatment for all workers, regardless of race. We’ve seen this in the ongoing advocacy of OPSEU/SEFPO and CBTU, pushing for anti-racism education and policies aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by us as Black workers.This effort is part of a larger movement that not only recognizes Black History but also seeks to address the ongoing systemic inequalities. Black Canadians still face barriers in many areas, including employment, education, housing, and healthcare. These are issues that don’t vanish after February ends. We don’t just stop being Black at midnight.…One critical historical event worth remembering is the 1793
Act to Limit Slavery in Upper Canada. While this act didn’t free any enslaved people, it was a significant step in limiting the importation of enslaved individuals into the province.However, slavery wasn’t officially abolished in most British colonies, including Canada, until 1834. Acknowledging these historical facts is essential to understanding the deep roots of inequality that persist today.So, as we move beyond this month of reflection, what can we do? Here are some things to think about when figuring out these next steps:
- Continue the Conversation: Racial equality is not a one-month Engage with your colleagues, peers, and community members year-round. Share what you’ve learned, talk about these important topics, and make sure that others are aware of the issues that still need to be addressed. Knowledge is power, and by continuing to educate ourselves and others, we build momentum for change.
- Speak Up & Stand Up: If you encounter injustice or inequality in your workplace or even in the union, don’t stay silent. Speak up for yourself and others who may not have a voice. Whether it’s advocating for anti-racism policies or pushing for more inclusive representation in leadership, your voice matters. The fight is ongoing, and every small action can contribute to meaningful change. Closed mouths don’t get fed!
- Use the Resources Available: As members of this union, you have access to a wealth of resources to help you grow professionally and personally. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these opportunities. Reach out to your allies and use your support systems to amplify your concerns and ideas. Together, we can work toward a union that is truly reflective of our diverse If you feel that the resources aren’t enough, then speak up, let us know, so we can work to fix it.
- Support Your Black Colleagues: We as Black workers face unique challenges, and it’s important to ensure that our concerns are heard and addressed. If a Black member of your union raises an issue or shares their experiences, take it Show up for each other, not just during moments of crisis, but continuously. We need to create an environment where Black members feel seen, valued, and included in all spaces, not just when diversity optics are at play.
- Take Action for Future Generations: Succession planning, mobilizing, and rallying for a more equitable future should be The work we do today will lay the groundwork for the generations that follow. Let’s ensure that the next generation of Black workers has an easier path toward equality, opportunity, and fairness.
This work isn’t just for one month; it’s for life. The fight for equality, for fairness, and for justice is a long one, and it requires all of us to keep pushing forward.I need to see you in all the spaces! Not because the Equity EBM put in a motion, not because special consideration had to be made to ensure your inclusion in a space or because we had to “shame” people into diversity and equity. We need to change the narrative, let’s start with our union as there is a lot of work to be done here.As your Equity EBM, I am committed to being your voice at the table, representing you in spaces where you may not yet be seen. I encourage you to reach out to me directly at
[email protected] or reach out to the Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee. You have representation in each region. Whether you have concerns, ideas, or simply want to connect. Invite us to your GMMs, events and workplaces, we will be there! Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more inclusive union that truly reflects the diversity and needs of ALL its members.Let’s keep this momentum going. Let’s continue learning, speaking up, and fighting for what’s right. The work of Black history, the work of racial equality, doesn’t end with February—it continues every day, and we must all be part of that ongoing journey.Thank you for your support, and let’s continue fighting this good fight.Your Unapologetically Black Sister, in solidarity,Nicole AnozieOPSEU/SEFPO Equity Executive Board Member
Coalition of Racialized Workers Board Liaison
