Ford government must commit to funded action plan to tackle anti-Black racism in Peel

QUEEN’S PARK – Deputy Leader MPP Sara Singh (Brampton Centre) and NDP Black Caucus Chair MPP Laura Mae Lindo (Kitchener Centre) issued the below joint statement following the unanimous passing of MPP Singh’s motion for action on anti-Black racism in Peel schools:

“New Democrats welcome unanimous support from the government and independent members for our motion calling on the Ontario government to ensure the review of the PDSB is independent, open to the public and that the government commits to a funded action plan to address anti-Black racism in Peel schools.

Black students, families and community members are looking for accountability from this government. We do not need another report to gather dust on the shelf. We will be looking for the Ford government to make both the interim and final review public and for a real commitment of financial resources to ensure that the implementation of any findings are not left on the shoulders of the Board.

A systemic problem requires a systemic solution. The Education Minister’s review cannot look at governance structure alone. It must look at the experiences of anti-Black racism from students all the way up to board members. Only if done right can this review move Ontario one small step closer to becoming a province where Black students can feel safe, supported, and free to learn.”