News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – A research study aimed at identifying what systemic Black racism looks like in the province will be conducted in partnership with the New Brunswick Community College and Black Lives Matter New Brunswick.

The overall objective of the project will be to study the key indicators of systemic Black racism and address barriers faced by the Black community.

“We know that systemic racism in New Brunswick is a significant issue and our government is committed to addressing it,” said Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Trevor Holder. “We are thrilled to support this project because partnerships such as this one will be critical in dismantling all forms of racism and making New Brunswick a more inclusive and attractive place to live. This is another example of how we address important issues by working with our post-secondary institutions.”

The Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour is providing about $85,000 to create a diverse research team including a director, researcher and a research associate from the community college; the president of Black Lives Matter New Brunswick and two professional consultants.

“Recognition of the Black experience and support for community healing is at the core of this research project, which will support Black Lives Matter New Brunswick in bringing about systemic changes to the health care, education, social development, and justice sectors,” said Mary Butler, president and CEO of the New Brunswick Community College. “In choosing to build more racially equal and inclusive communities, we must ask difficult questions, identify necessary changes and build on our collective strengths. We look forward to being part of this research and the resulting actions.”

The study will examine how key indicators affect policies and practices within four specific sectors; and seek out best and proven practices in alleviating systemic Black racism.

Four key questions will guide the study:

• What are the key indicators of systemic Black racism in New Brunswick?

• How do these indicators affect policies and practices within four specific sectors?

• What best or proven practices in alleviating systemic Black racism currently exist in New Brunswick communities?

• How can these best practices inform policies and procedures across communities and sectors in the province and beyond?

“This past year, our current provincial government was the first in New Brunswick’s history to acknowledge the existence of systemic racism. We appreciate that they are now taking real, concrete steps towards addressing and dismantling systemic racism within the province,” said Matthew Martin, president and CEO of Black Lives Matter New Brunswick. “We at Black Lives Matter New Brunswick are excited for our partnership with NBCC and the New Brunswick Government and look forward to collaboratively bringing forth a more equitable, inclusive and just society, in which all citizens feel welcome and valued.”

The final report and recommendations resulting from this research is expected to be completed this fall.