To date, I have the honour of talking with psychologists, social workers, former MLA, lawyers, youth, Minister of cabinet, Vice Provost at a University, documentary film maker, former media broadcaster, and policy makers. Each episode ends with some calls to action so the listener can walk away with ideas they can think about, do, and do more of on their anti-racism journey.
Shibao shares how he came to Canada 30 years ago and completed his doctorate at the University of British Columbia. He notes his research interests in transnational migration, diaspora studies, Chinese immigrants in Canada, ethnic race relations, and comparative and international education are derived from his lived experience as a newcomer in Canada. He explains the glass gate, glass door, and glass ceiling faced by many racialized minorities. He voices the importance of “enacting an anti-racism education.
Lorelei shares that her birth dad is Metis and she did not meet him until she was 26 years old. She voices the importance of cultural discovery and knowing one’s cultural identity. She notes the importance of “being double” and the significance of celebrating all aspects of identity rather than “half” of an identity. She conveys how it is crucial to know where you are from and where you are going.
Mayor Jyoti Gondek talks about the need to continue to have conversations about racism and to work together to unpack systemic racism. She is very proud of our youth who are engaging in such conversations to provide ideas to have Calgary be an anti-racist city. She shares some raw moments when she felt broken. She voices how “we can be better than this” when it comes to being welcoming and inclusive.
Linda talks about how she was born in Suriname and came to North America in 1993 (Colorado and then Calgary in 1997). She shares the racism and microaggressions she has faced in the workplace and outside the workplace. She discloses how she speaks five languages and people would comment on how eloquently she speaks English. She notes the importance of anti-racism in action and the need for love, kindness, and belonging.
Samantha shares experiences of racism in her upbringing and the present. She notes there is systemic racism, racial trauma, and exclusion faced by racialized people. She voices the importance of finding community, self-reflecting, learning, and unlearning. She notes we need to see tangible work in the area of anti-racism and not just talking about change without real investment.
