Dignity Forum takes aim at rise of racism in Alberta

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Racial discrimination in Alberta and the actions needed to create a more inclusive province are the focus of a conference in Calgary this weekend.

The Dignity Forum launched as a non-profit in May out of a concern for the rise in discrimination and violence faced by racialized groups in Alberta. The group is hosting its first in-person conference Saturday with speakers, panels and breakout sessions intended to open a dialogue about human rights and diversity in the province.

“The purpose of the conference is to really explore some issues as to how we can collaborate — to come together — in order to deal with the racism that we see in our community,” said Ron Ghitter, Dignity Forum founder and chair.

Ghitter, a former Alberta MLA and Canadian senator, said speakers at the conference will highlight the challenges faced by racialized communities and how education and the Alberta Human Rights Commission could be used to address the issues.

“We know we’re not going to change racism overnight, racism has always been with us and it will continue to be with us. But when it starts to accelerate the way that it is, we have got to start responding to it and bring people together to say, ‘This is not what Calgary’s all about, this is not what Canada is all about,” said Ghitter.

“I think it’s reaching out to the goodness that exists within our community and the acceptance of people and all they have to offer. … People are eager to get involved.”

The event is fully booked, which Ghitter said is a testament to how many people in the community want to be engaged in anti-racism discussions and action.

The event’s keynote speaker, Avnish Nanda — an Edmonton litigator who frequently acts for parties advancing civil liberties, human rights and Indigenous self-determination — is scheduled to open the conference after prayers from an Indigenous elder.

The panels and speeches will feature representatives from the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the Ontario and New Brunswick human rights commissions, Iniskim Centre at Mount Royal University, and other expert voices and activists.

Policy Wise will present its study of the Alberta Human Rights Commission and suggestions on how to handle racism within Alberta communities. As well, a panel of representatives from the United Conservative Party, Alberta New Democratic Party, Alberta Party and city council will discuss their visions for the future of the Alberta Human Rights Commission.

Ghitter said events and conversations like these are necessary to give a voice to those facing discrimination and prejudice. On the same day as the Dignity Forum’s conference, UCP members will debate and vote on a policy resolution to push back against anti-racist education efforts.

“Meaningful change will only come about by concerted, action-oriented programs focusing on critical thinking education programs in our schools, and an active and empowered Alberta Human Rights Commission,” said Ghitter. “We can’t just sit back in complacency and do nothing about it, because the dangers of that are too difficult to even think about.”

sbabych@postmedia.com
Twitter: @BabychStephanie