How we Battled Racism | BodyBreak Hal Johnson
I had the opportunity to grow up in Canada and go to University and work in the United States. As a black man, my perspective of both countries is quite different than those of my white friends.Ā
Racism in the US is in your face. Ā It's always present. Ā But in Canada, it's there but subtle.Ā
My goal in creating Body Break, 32 years ago, was to break down barriers and change attitudes. I wanted to show that regardless of your physical ability, your ethnicity, the colour of your skin, we can all live, work and play together.Ā
In the last 3 weeks, I have had numerous white friends call me and ask me a wide variety of questions. They have all asked āwhat can they doā? Ā I simply say LISTEN. Ā For my entire life, in order to succeed, I have had to become a chameleon and conform to society. Ā For the first time in my life I feel white people want to learn and want to listen.Ā
I feel that talking about my experiences, the encounters with police and the racism in the workplace as a bi-racial person in both countries it can help educate those who want to listen. Ā It can also give us hope that we can get through this time stronger and more unified than ever. I am extremely hopeful this is a new day for all of us to come together.
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Tagging: @politicsofcanada @abpoli
