‘Community Conversation’ set to tackle anti-Black racism in Sarnia

Tara Jeffrey A ‘community conversation’ exploring anti-black racism is set for this Tuesday evening at the Gateway Room in Sarnia.

Tara Jeffrey

A ‘community conversation’ exploring anti-black racism is set for this Tuesday evening at the Gateway Room in Sarnia.

The event, ‘Anti-Black Racism: A Community Conversation’ is a joint partnership between the Social Services Network of Sarnia-Lambton, Future Black Female and the Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce.

“We see that racism is really a public health issue, because it does impact people, in terms of their wellness and their well-being,” said Andrew Bolter, who co-chairs the anti-racism committee of the Social Services Network of Sarnia-Lambton. “And we thought it was important that we acknowledge to the community that this is an issue – and that we are all responsible for doing something about it.

“And the first step is to be able to talk about it and learn in a safe way.”

The event takes place Tuesday, Jan. 24 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the St. Clair Corporate Centre’s Gateway Room. It’s open to the public and registration is not required.

Guests can expect an information session from the Sarnia-Lambton Immigration Partnership and the Sarnia-Lambton Alliance Against Hate, sharing local action and results from a survey highlighting racism, discrimination, and oppression experienced in Sarnia-Lambton.

Representatives will also be on hand from Future Black Female — a feminist-informed non-profit that works to empower Black girls and women between the ages of 16 and 22.

Lastly, a panel discussion hosted by city councillor Adam Kilner will include three Black women sharing their own experiences of living in Sarnia.

“We see this as the start of a conversation,” Bolter added. “This is the first of many events we hope to hold… we’re well aware there other groups in Sarnia-Lambton that experience racism, and there’s going to be opportunities to look at those as well.”

IF YOU GO:

WHAT: Anti-Black Racism: A Community Conversation

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 24, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m

WHERE: The Gateway Room, St. Clair Corporate Centre (265 Front St. N. Sarnia)

DETAILS: Event is free and open to the public. No registration required.