In recent years, the global focus on anti-Black racism has intensified, shedding light on the systemic injustices that Black individuals face.

As the executive director of the Black Screen Office (BSO), I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of these systemic barriers within Canada’s screen industry. Despite the progress made, the battle against anti-Black racism is far from over. Now more than ever, we cannot afford to ease our efforts in dismantling these deep-rooted issues.

Our organization has been at the forefront of advocating for change and providing essential tools to address these challenges, notably through our Anti-Black Racism Training for Mentors and Leaders (developed in collaboration with Natasha Tony and Elevate Inclusion Strategies). This program, specifically designed for non-Black employers and decision-makers, is a crucial step in understanding and addressing the nuances of anti-Black racism within our industry. It’s a space for sharing, learning, and actively building skills to support Black talent in a meaningful way.

Understanding intersectionality and positionality is fundamental in this journey. Intersectionality reveals how overlapping identities experience power systems differently, while positionality reflects how our personal backgrounds influence our perspectives and interactions. These concepts are vital in comprehending the multifaceted nature of racism and discrimination.

The reality of anti-Black racism in Canada is stark and deeply rooted in history. From the early days of slavery to more recent incidents of systemic discrimination, Black Canadians have continually faced obstacles in various spheres of life. In the workplace, this racism often manifests in subtler forms, such as unconscious biases and microaggressions, which significantly impact mental health and professional opportunities.

Today, anti-Black racism continues to marginalize Black individuals socioeconomically and politically. It’s evident in the inequities in healthcare, education, housing, and the labour force.

The use of coded language, such as “cultural fit,” often serves as a barrier to professional advancement for Black individuals, reinforcing a workplace culture that implicitly privileges whiteness.

The psychological toll of navigating these systemic barriers is immense. Black individuals often find themselves altering their identities and enduring mental and emotional strain simply to align with societal norms. This constant negotiation of identity significantly impacts mental health and overall well-being.

In addressing these challenges, the concept of allyship becomes crucial. Authentic allyship involves empathy, commitment, and a willingness to educate oneself about anti-Black racism.

It’s about using one’s privilege to support and advocate for marginalized groups, rather than engaging in performative actions.

As we continue this fight, it’s important to remember that being an ally is a continuous learning process. It requires active participation, self-reflection, and a readiness to engage in critical conversations. Through our Anti-Black Racism Training and various initiatives, we aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to make meaningful change.

In conclusion, the journey against anti-Black racism demands not just our individual efforts, but a collective commitment to change. The BSO stands as a catalyst for this transformation, inviting partnerships with those dedicated to eradicating systemic racism. Authentic allyship and collaboration are the cornerstones of our strategy in dismantling these deep-rooted barriers.

We encourage those who share our mission to engage with the BSO, bringing your unique perspectives, resources, and energy. Whether through participating in our initiatives, collaborating on projects, or amplifying our message, your contribution is invaluable. Together, we can create a dynamic network of allies, driving impactful change in the industry and beyond.

As we forge ahead, let’s unite in our efforts to build an inclusive future where diversity is not only recognized, but celebrated. Join us in this vital work. Let’s keep our foot firmly on the gas, driving towards a better, more inclusive tomorrow.

Joan Jenkinson is the executive director of the Black Screen Office. She is an accomplished television executive and an outspoken advocate for Black Canadians working in the screen industries. Under her leadership, the BSO has been named the 2022 Changemaker Organization of the Year. Joan is a founding partner at Artemis Pictures, which is focused on developing and producing scripted content for television.