Okotoks taking a stand against racism

Okotoks’ mayor has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging other communities to stand up in the fight against racial discrimination.

Town of Okotoks councillors proclaimed March 21 as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination after hearing a presentation from Foothills Community Immigrant Services (FCIS) executive director Ric Morales on Feb. 22.

Mayor Bill Robertson challenged his fellow mayors and reeves in the region to follow suit.

“Consider the challenge has been thrown out now,” said Robertson.

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination was first declared by the United Nations on March 21, 1966. Morales said given changing demographics and events of the past year, such as the Black Lives Matter movement, it’s important for municipalities to stand behind their citizens and advocate for the end of discrimination.

As a former teacher, vice-principal, and principal at various Foothills school between 1988 and 2013, Morales said he’s seen the changes in demographics in the region, and it’s time to acknowledge and work towards eliminating racial discord and systemic discrimination.

“While many celebrate and acknowledge our country’s cultural diversity, we also are reminded of racial discrimination, negative consequences, hatred and intolerance, disrespect for and devaluing of others, the wanton callousness and animosity towards others throughout the past year especially was most evident,” said Morales.

He said municipalities – and their residents – all have to take up the torch, to do what they can within their communities, neighbourhoods, families and workplaces to challenge racial discrimination.

While he was generally accepted into and engrained in the community through his role as a teacher and administrator, Morales said it’s not like that for every person who belongs to a minority group.

There has been evidence of discrimination and marginalization of certain groups through the past year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with blame being cast on people due simply to their heritage, and racism has been at the forefront with the Black Lives Matter movement and other events in 2020, he said.

“I think that’s a sad legacy, and we don’t want that to be an ongoing part of who we are as a community,” said Morales.

Coun. Ed Sands said it’s important for municipalities to take a stand and get behind the movement to end discrimination by encouraging diversity and acceptance within their communities.

“During stressful times in society, I think society can harden and these messages need to be heard and need to get out,” said Sands. “I will do my part as best I can.”