Progress and Change in Nova Scotia, Op-ed

NOTE: The following is an op-ed piece by Premier Darrell Dexter.

March 21 marks the International Day of the Elimination of Racial Discrimination--a day that reminds us to remain vigilant in our efforts to stamp out racism.

As this day nears, I am reminded of how important it is to always keep equality and acceptance of each other in view. Never become complacent.

Nova Scotia has a very long tradition of diversity -- racial, linguistic, religious, and ethnic. Diversity began for this region when the first Europeans arrived on the shores of Mi'kmaq traditional lands.

As we've seen throughout time, it has never been easy for different groups of people to live together. This is certainly true when you look at the history of our province. Some of our worst injustices have been based on racial differences.

Not that long ago racial tensions in Nova Scotia were blatant and obvious. In 1982, for example, the Ku Klux Klan announced its intention of pursuing its nefarious activities in our province. In response, the government of the day denounced any such activity.

In 1991, the Marshall inquiry made 82 recommendations to improve the justice system for African Nova Scotians and aboriginal persons. Many aspects of race relations were examined.

Fast forward to today, and the recent cross-burning incident on the lawn of a bi-racial couple in Hants County. I think that most of us had hoped such incidents of racism were things of the past.

This was a terrible racist act...but the difference in that incident happening now as opposed to years ago was the overwhelming public outrage and condemnation it received. It was heartwarming to see the outpouring of support to the family.

This is a clear sign that times are changing and Nova Scotians are no longer willing to tolerate such racist behaviour. It is a clear sign that Nova Scotia is turning a corner and is trying to put past prejudices and resulting injustices behind it.

Today, more than ever, we're seeing progress on many fronts.

Earlier this month to mark the 20th anniversary of the Marshall inquiry, the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society sponsored a symposium to honour the legacy of Donald Marshall, Jr.

Further confirmation of change was the Africville apology on Feb. 24 in Halifax.

I have also asked the justice minister to see what can be done about getting a pardon for Viola Desmond, who was convicted for standing up for her civil rights and liberties in 1946.

The strong positive public support for these and other events confirms that we are moving forward together in our fight against racism.

Some people say that racism still exists and is systemic in Nova Scotia. Others say they have never seen or heard incidents of racism. The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission says that about 20 per cent of its workload relates to race-based complaints. The commission's race relations division continues its work to help change attitudes and explain discrimination and its impact on people.

While we know that we are making inroads, there's no doubt we still have more to do. That said, there is a big difference between the Nova Scotia of 2010 and the Nova Scotia of years ago.

I believe the difference is that equality and acceptance now lead the way, and Nova Scotians want each person to be treated with respect and dignity. By continuing our collective efforts, we can make this possible.