The statements are good, but not enough.

A joint message from the Canadian Association of Black Journalists and Canadian Journalists of Colour:

Over the past several days, media companies have released statements decrying anti-Black racism in Canada. By and large, these statements are necessary, but they are far from sufficient.

The Canadian Association of Black Journalists (CABJ) is concerned about systemic racism in a broad sense, but we are especially concerned by that which saturates Canadian journalism and media. Not only are there too few Black journalists in Canadian newsrooms, and a dismal number of Black managers at all levels, but the industry persistently refuses to report on itself. Disaggregated demographic numbers are not released by Canadian media companies; while white-centered and biased coverage is disseminated to listeners, readers, and viewers, the industry resists even the barest measures of accountability.

This alone is cause for alarm. 

So should the countless experiences of racism and micro-aggressions faced by Black journalists, by their racialized co-workers and industry peers. These are not new problems. Black journalists have been facing the same uphill battle in Canadian media since well before the CABJ was founded in 1996. Now is the time for tangible changes within the industry.

Earlier this year, the CABJ joined forces with Canadian Journalists of Colour (CJOC) to release seven ‘Calls to Action’. As two organizations representing Black journalists, Indigenous journalists, and journalists of colour, we share a common vision: we demand an equitable, accessible, representative, and fair industry. We want an industry that is truly inclusive, and an industry that makes good on previous empty commitments to multiculturalism. There have been too many panels, too many town halls, and too many training sessions, all of which have ultimately led to on-air gaffes, unprofessional comments and columns, and a litany of incidents underscoring the work that remains to be done.

Now is the time for accountability and frank discussions with industry leaders about the changes that need to happen when it comes to data collection, hiring practices and the general work culture at predominantly white Canadian news and media organizations.

We also hear from Black-owned media companies about the need for more financial support for the important work they do. These outlets fill a gap in Canada's media landscape long since neglected by major publications and media conglomerates. This too needs to change. There must be an increase in funding and support for independent, Black-owned publications and productions.

Over the next few weeks, we will be reaching out to you—newsroom leaders and media outlets—to engage in these conversations. We also invite you to reach out to us proactively.

In solidarity,

Canadian Association of Black Journalists

Canadian Journalists of Colour

This statement has been translated into French. That version is available below.