Red Coalition awarded of fighting against racism and discrimination

Red Coalition awarded of fighting against racism and discrimination

Black History Month is often framed as a time of commemoration, education, and celebration of cultural contributions. But for the Red Coalition, it is equally a moment to demand justice and accountability in a society where racism remains deeply entrenched.

At a recent community gathering, the coalition delivered a passionate and unfiltered message: silence is no longer an option.

One of the evening’s most striking remarks came from a coalition member who described the group as the “blow-up team.” The phrase carried a defiant edge, reflecting the coalition’s commitment to exposing injustice rather than allowing it to remain hidden.

“If you have a problem and you come to us, don’t expect us to keep it quiet,” the speaker declared, to murmurs of approval from the audience. “That doesn’t work anymore in 2023. Nobody comes to us and says, ‘I’ve been discriminated against, but keep it to yourself.’ That time is over.”

The speaker acknowledged the sobering reality that racism is unlikely to disappear in his lifetime. Yet, he stressed, this recognition does not weaken the resolve to confront it directly.

“We’re not going to eradicate racism out of this province, not in my lifetime anyway. But we will fight tooth and nail and hold folks accountable—no matter who they are. Because at the end of the day, we all need respect.”

His words reframed Black History Month as not only a celebration of heritage but also an urgent reminder that respect and equity remain unfinished business.

The gathering also underscored the indispensable role of women in the movement for racial justice. A female board member, one of three women serving on the coalition’s leadership team, highlighted the multiple responsibilities women shoulder—balancing family, careers, and community work—while also stepping into advocacy roles often forced upon them by systemic inequities.

“Usually women are the ones taking care of the home, the children, and their daily work or business,” she noted. “But while our men are being locked up and profiled—the very ones who are targeted most—we must be the ones to stand at the forefront, defend them, and make sure their voices are not silenced.”

Her call to action was firm and direct:

“I want to encourage the ladies in this room—and everywhere—to speak for your brothers, your husbands, your sons, your cousins. Because while they are in jail, while their voices are being shot down, we must be the ones to carry the work forward.”

Her remarks sparked a round of applause, resonating deeply with women in attendance who recognized their own lived realities in her words.

The Red Coalition’s message reflects a broader frustration with the persistence of racial profiling, over-policing, and systemic inequities faced by Black communities in Canada. While the coalition acknowledges progress in awareness and representation, it argues that meaningful change requires relentless pressure on institutions and those in power.

The insistence on “blowing up” issues, rather than quietly addressing them behind closed doors, signals a shift toward more visible and confrontational activism—one that refuses to let discrimination be minimized or brushed aside.

As the evening drew to a close, the atmosphere was charged with solidarity and determination. The speakers reminded the audience that Black History Month is not only about honoring the past but also about shaping the future with courage and collective responsibility.

“We all need respect,” the coalition member repeated, his voice steady but firm. “That’s what this month is about. Celebration, yes—but also respect.”

The applause that followed carried more than appreciation; it carried a promise. A promise that, despite the obstacles ahead, the fight for dignity, accountability, and justice will not waver.