March 21, 2025 Statement from the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 

Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour reaffirms our unwavering commitment to combating racism in all its forms. We in the union movement know racism is not just a social problem; it’s a workplace, a community, and an economic one. We know that discrimination weakens our solidarity, divides workers and promotes exploitation. We know that racism is woven into the history of Nova Scotia, from the displacement of Indigenous communities to the systemic exclusion of Black Nova Scotians.

While progress has been made, the reality is we still see racialized workers facing wage gaps, barriers to advancement, and disproportionate exposure to precarious work. The fight against racial discrimination is far from over. Our unions have always been at the forefront of the struggle for fairness. We have fought for better wages, safer workplaces, and stronger protections against discrimination for a very long time. To be clear, our work doesn’t stop at policy; it’s about action. Action that matters, like ensuring collective agreements, includes strong anti-discrimination language, pushing employers to address racism head-on, and standing in solidarity with workers who face racism and harassment.

Governments at all levels must do more that can do more with the political will to do so. Our priorities in correcting the wrongs must include more effective employment equity laws and enforcement of those. We must see tangible consequences for workplace discrimination and support, real support for workers experiencing racism. It is not enough to discuss change; the time for talk is ending, and we need policies that dismantle systemic barriers and hold employers accountable. As a force against workplace and community injustice, our unions must continue to lead the way. Education and awareness must also remain our unions’ primary purpose on this front.

We all know that racism doesn’t just disappear; it must be actively challenged. That’s why the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour and our unions in Nova Scotia and across the country will continue to push for anti-racism training, policies that protect marginalized workers, and a broader recognition that an injury to one is an injury to all. Racism, discrimination and inequality must be opposed in our workplaces and communities. So when you see someone experiencing racism, support them? Ensure that your workplaces and communities are changing for the better. If we work together, Nova Scotia can become more just, equitable, and united if we work together to make that happen.