Historical Context of Anti-Black Racism

The content on this page provides a brief overview of the historical roots of anti-Black racism in Canada. Understanding this context supports meaningful action in schools and reinforces why intentional strategies are required to address ongoing inequities experienced by Black students, staff, and families.

Young black student in classroom sitting at desk writing in notebook

Global and Canadian Historical Context

Anti-Black racism has deep historical roots that extend across the African diaspora. Globally, European colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade shaped beliefs, policies, and institutions that positioned Black people as inferior. These ideas persisted long after enslavement ended and continue to influence social systems today.

In Canada, the presence and experiences of people of African descent span more than 400 years. This history includes both periods of settlement and community building and periods of forced enslavement, segregation, and exclusion.

Key historical influences include:

  • The forced displacement of millions of Africans through the transatlantic slave trade
  • The enslavement of Black people in early Canada and the use of enslaved labour to support colonial settlement
  • Government policies that restricted or discouraged Black immigration, such as the 1910 Immigration Act
  • Segregated schools and community spaces that limited educational and social opportunities for Black children and families
  • Persistent beliefs and narratives that portrayed Black people as dangerous, less capable, or in need of control

These historical forces created patterns that continue to influence how Black students and families are perceived and treated in educational settings.


Impacts of Enslavement and Systemic Racism

Although enslavement was abolished in Canada in 1834, many of its underlying ideologies continued. The impacts are still felt across generations through:

  • Stereotypes that portray Black students as disruptive or less academically capable
  • Disproportionate discipline and heightened surveillance of Black youth
  • Underrepresentation of Black identities, histories, and achievements in curriculum and school environments
  • Barriers to equitable participation in programs, pathways, and leadership opportunities
  • Limited representation of Black educators and leaders within the education system

Understanding these impacts helps educators and system leaders recognize why targeted strategies are necessary to support belonging, learning, and well-being for Black students.


Modern Context and the Need for Continued Action

While progress has been made, anti-Black racism continues to shape educational experiences in Ontario. Recent research, including the OHRC’s Dreams Delayed report, highlights persistent inequities in belonging, discipline, achievement, and representation for Black students.

A clear understanding of this history strengthens the commitment to:

  • Interrupt discriminatory patterns
  • Embed identity-affirming and culturally responsive practices
  • Create school environments where Black students feel safe, respected, and able to thrive

This historical context is not included to assign blame but to support informed action and system accountability.


Digital Resource Companion

Additional background information and practical resources that support Grand Erie's Anti-Black Racism Strategy are available by accessing the links below. These materials provide further guidance for educators and school leaders and will continue to evolve as new learning and resources emerge.

The companion will be updated periodically to reflect new learning, research, and classroom resources.