March 21 is marked as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. We remember victims of the 1960, Sharpeville, Massacre, in South Africa, when peaceful protesters stood up against racism and were faced with a violent response.

In Canada and around the world, racism, colonialism and xenophobia continue to dominate and shape our societies. Systemic racism is embedded in the fabric of our institutions, and unions are not exempt. Discrimination against Black, Indigenous, and racialized members persists in the labour movement and within unions. This is evident, not only in the lack of representation of Black, Indigenous and racialized members in union leadership, but also in the ongoing barriers faced by members who experience workplace racism in receiving representation that reflects and understands their lived realities. These members face further barriers when they are women, members with disabilities, or 2SLGBTQIA+ members.

CEIU Anti-Racism Plan: Help us take the next steps

In 2023, delegates to CEIU’s National Convention voted to create a CEIU Anti-Racism Plan, following PSAC’s adoption of its Anti-Racism Action Plan.

The CEIU Anti-Racism Plan aims to make our union more inclusive of Black, Racialized and Indigenous members and to empower them to be full and active union members. To develop a strong plan of action, we need to hear from you about your experiences and your ideas for building an anti-racist union.

• Fill in our survey to share your insights!

Members who complete the survey could win a $100 e-gift card.

Taking action

Other ways that you can mark this day and contribute to the fight against racism:

• Take a look at some of these Anti-Racism Resources
• Read about PSAC’s Anti-Racism Action Plan

Share our survey with your co-workers who are CEIU members and within your local