Racism in Dartmouth

As the MLAs for Dartmouth North and Dartmouth South we want to add our voices to those speaking out against two recent acts of anti-Black racism that took place in Dartmouth.

These most recent acts of hate - which District 5 Councillor Sam Austin wrote about in his recent newsletter - were aimed at two separate Dartmouth families in or around the place that they should feel the most safe, their homes. In one instance, the word “noose” was spray painted on a power pole in front of the home of a family of colour, and in the other a family with a “Black Lives Matter'' sign in their window received a letter containing vile anti-Black racist sentiments. We have been holding both of those families in our hearts and are here for you, or anyone else in our districts that experience racism, if you need us. Don’t hesitate to reach out to either of our offices; our contact information is below. We are committed to working together to make Dartmouth a safer, more equitable, and more accepting place for all Black, Indigenous people and other People of Colour (BIPOC).

Let us be clear: there is no place for racism, of any kind, in Dartmouth. We are both proud to be the elected representatives for areas that are home to people of many different races - including a historic Black population - who come from a variety of different countries, and who practice a wide spectrum of religions. This diversity is a strength, and something that makes Dartmouth beautiful.

This spring people around the world, throughout North America, across this province, and in this city have been protesting against racism and police violence under the banner of Black Lives Matter. This is a movement that we both wholeheartedly support. This fight is not new, but increased attention from the media and general public means many people are thinking and talking about race and racism in ways they haven’t before. These conversations can be difficult, but are crucial. As Dartmouthians it is all of our responsibilities to speak up against racist statements, acts, and institutions when and where they happen.

As decision-makers we must not only speak up but also take action to prevent and respond to racist acts and disassemble racist systems. We both take this privilege and responsibility seriously, and will continue to push for changes like the ones we outlined in this article, Seven steps Nova Scotia could take to rectify racism, which we wrote for the Chronicle Herald back in June. We are always open to talking to constituents about what actions we can take as legislators to make this province a more equitable and just one for BIPOC people and communities.

In solidarity,

Claudia Chender, MLA for Dartmouth South
902-406-2301
ClaudiaChenderMLA@gmail.com

Susan Leblanc, MLA for Dartmouth North
902-463-6670
SusanLeblancMLA@bellaliant.com