York Region school board releasing anti-Black racism strategy

The public is invited to register for the virtual launch event on March 8

Newmarkettoday.ca
March 5, 2021

York Region District School Board is holding a virtual event on March 8 to unveil its Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy: Creating anti-racist and Black-affirming learning and working environments.

The anti-Black racism strategy will support the board in its work to address incidents of anti-Black racism and create safer and equitable spaces for students, staff and our community, a news release states.

The launch event will inform viewers of the content of the strategy, including the seven priority areas, and why a strategy is needed specifically to target anti-Black racism in education.

The virtual event will feature a keynote address by Robin Maynard, author of Policing Black Lives, external consultant Tana Turner, student performances, Director of Education Louise Sirisko, board chair Cynthia Cordova, trustee Elizabeth Sinclair and members of YRDSB senior leadership team.

The public is welcome to attend the March 8 event, from 5 to 7 p.m. The event will also be recorded and available on the board's website.

The strategy was developed in response to continued evidence of anti-Black racism in schools and marks a coordinated effort between York Region Black community leaders and staff to address anti-Black racism at YRDSB, according to the YRDSB news release.

The systemic nature of anti-Black racism requires that school boards act proactively to support greater access to education and opportunities for all students and to challenge the marginalization of Black students, staff and families.

The Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy was co-developed by members of the Black community of York Region, staff and in consultation with students.

Registration details are available on the board's website.