The tragic death of George Floyd at the hands of American police officers has rightfully raised the issue of racism in our society, regardless of borders. The community housing sector exists to provide shelter and services to all people in need, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender, age, or socioeconomic status. The Canadian Housing and Renewal Association and the community housing sector across Canada calls for an end to racism, racist behaviour, and structural racism in all its forms. We call for a dialogue between those who have been the victims of systemic racism, including African Canadians, Indigenous peoples, LGBTQ+ Canadians and others, and those in positions of authority and power to ensure that racism in all its forms be eliminated. Community housing providers commit to working with their tenants and others to create safe spaces where tenants can feel secure, supported, and protected. CHRA calls on political leaders in Canada, the United States, and around the world to provide strong leadership by implementing measures designed to lead to greater equality between all peoples. The time is now to stop racism in all its forms – it is now up to all of us to act.
