Engagement on Definitions of Discrimination and Racism

Nova Scotians can give feedback on proposed definitions for types of discrimination and racism that will be addressed in the Province’s equity and anti-racism strategy.

“Community input has been critical in shaping our approach to addressing racism and discrimination in all their forms,” said Pat Dunn, Minister responsible for the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism Initiatives. “We heard from more than 2,000 people as we developed the Dismantling Racism and Hate Act, a unique piece of legislation in Canada, and we want to continue to engage with Nova Scotians as we take the next steps in building the strategy.”

Legislation passed in April commits the Province to developing an equity and anti-racism strategy by July 2023. Seven types of discrimination and racism were identified for definition and inclusion in the strategy:

• ableism
• anti-Asian racism
• anti-Black racism
• anti-Indigenous racism
• antisemitism
• gender and sexuality-based discrimination
• Islamophobia.

Nova Scotians can offer input by attending virtual engagement sessions between September 19 and November 19, or by completing an online survey. A full list of session times, draft definitions and the survey are available at: https://www.oeaengagement.ca/equity-and-anti-racism-legislation

Additional Resources:

The Dismantling Racism and Hate Act: https://nslegislature.ca/sites/default/files/legc/PDFs/annual%20statutes/2022%20Spring/c003.pdf