Recognizing Arab Heritage Month means celebrating the culture and contributions of this diverse community – while acknowledging that Arab Canadians are facing steep barriers to inclusion and equality.
Anti-Arab attitudes have been recognized as a growing problem in Canada for decades. But anti-Arab sentiment, particularly anti-Palestinian racism, has risen steeply in Canada since last year. These discriminatory attitudes have found a way into the workplace, and public sector employees are faced with demeaning stereotypes and racial profiling, impacting their career advancement and ability to do their job.
At a time when world events have precipitated a sharp rise in hate, honouring Arab culture and heritage is an important step towards progress. For the more than one million Arab Canadians, this recognition can be the difference between surviving and thriving within their communities and their workplace.
As April comes to a close, let’s continue to support our colleagues, friends and community members, stand against discrimination and hate, and instead, stand up in recognition and gratitude of the many contributions of Arab Canadians to the social fabric of our country.
