Despite denials and lack of adequate publicity, black children continue to face racism and other forms of discrimination in our school system. Sadly in 2014 a Zimbabwean-Canadian student, PJ Makuto. was severely beaten at Sutton school in a case that made headline news.
Our team has been giving support and kept in constant contact with the Vaughan African Canadian Association (VACA) since that incident occurred. VACA has met with the school board for over 10 years regarding incidents of racism against black children. There have been several articles and news reports lately regarding the York Region District School Board (YRDSB) and the Minister of Education, Mitzie Hunter has expressed her outrage regarding Islamaphobia and anti-black racism.
After the Sutton school incident involving PJ Makuto, no changes were made, and no one followed up with requests for change. Minister Hunter released a statement a few weeks ago that stated her dismay at the Board.
On Friday, December 2nd, a press conference was held in Toronto to announce a Human Rights complaint has been filed against the Board. Your Zimbabwe Canadian Support Group is one of the coalition partners supporting VACA in fighting against racism and the measures now in process.
This is where you come in. VACA is need of the support of our community. They are looking for lawyers, human rights lawyers, activists and families who will stand and fight this cause with them for the benefit of our black community. They are also looking for any families from Zimbabwe or other African communities living in York Region who have experienced incidents of racism based on religion, culture, ethnicity or race who would like advice on their options to seek justice.
Please contact Shernett Martin, Executive Director, at 386 333-1242 or by emailat vaca@rogers.com if you can help or your children have been affected by racism in the schools under the York Region District School Board.
Together, we are stronger.
