Focused, hybrid-method survey gives clearer insight into Black experience in Canada
Study lead and equity policy expert available for interviews
TORONTO, May 21, 2021 – Most Black Canadians regularly experience racism, whether it is in criminal justice, education, employment, health care, or in the recently added COVID-19 pandemic scenario, a York University-led ongoing survey reveals.
“This experience is not new, but because Black Canadians are typically classified under the larger visible minority group, their unique challenges have always been undermined,” says Professor Lorne Foster in the School of Public Policy & Administration, who led the study as part of the Blackness in Canada project.
Nearly 13,000 respondents – both Blacks and non-Blacks – participated in the one-of-its-kind national survey that combined traditional and modern (online / wiki survey) methods of data collection.
The Black Canadian National Survey Interim Report 2021 was released today revealing the study results, while the online survey will be open until June 1.
Within the survey, Black Canadians gave a series of recommendations that they feel would best address systemic racism in the country. Among them, a call for more educational opportunities for Black Canadians, more anti-racism education in schools, and amendments to the Police Services Act to allow for independent watchdog agencies and harsher penalties for racist conduct by police.
The national survey, which began on March 21, is being conducted by York’s Institute for Social Research that Foster leads, in partnership with the Canadian Race Relations Foundation and funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.
Foster is available to discuss the survey results, as well as comment on topics covered in the survey including:
- Black experience during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Racial profiling, police carding and anti-Black racism
- Public policy reform and workplace diversity
York University is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change and prepare our students for success. York’s fully bilingual Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario’s Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. York’s campuses in Costa Rica and India offer students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future.
Media Contact:
Gloria Suhasini, York University Media Relations, 647.463.4354, suhasini@yorku.ca
