Racial Discrimination Wrong and Unlawful

The Human Rights Commission is asking all Nova Scotians to consider their privilege and the impacts of their actions after several high-profile instances of anti-Black racism.

All occurrences of anti-Black racism are wrong and unlawful. When acts of anti-Black racism show up in public the impacts are immense and threaten the safety and well-being of people of African descent, their families and communities.

Whether overt acts of intentional discrimination, covert signals to others of racist views, or offensive attempts at humour, anti-Black racism is a reality for many Nova Scotians.

A history of oppression, segregation, and violence, ongoing experiences of discrimination through systemic inequities and frequent micro-aggressions, these negative actions are ever present for people of African descent. When public acts of racism targeting Black people occur, the impacts can be profoundly harmful and traumatic.

It is the right of all Nova Scotians to live a life free of discrimination and fear for their safety and the well-being of their loved ones. It is the responsibility of all Nova Scotians to ensure our behaviours honour and uphold these rights and the safety of our friends, families, colleagues, and neighbours.

If anyone believes they have been the target of discrimination due to race or colour, please contact the Commission and consider filing a complaint under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.