Grieving Together in the Face of Hate
There are moments when words feel painfully inadequate.
When we hear about lives taken through acts of hate, violence, or intolerance, our hearts break; not only for those who have died but for their families, friends, neighbours and the communities that have been forever changed by their loss. It is crushing.
Fostering Diverse Communities Canada acknowledges the grief that so many people are dealing with. Whether close to home, across our country, or around the world, these acts remind us that hate has real and devastating consequences. To everyone mourning today, we see you and we feel you.
For the members of the communities who are repeatedly targeted because of their identities - religion, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, country of origin, skin colour, disability, or other aspects, these events open old wounds and create an increased sense of vulnerability.
Today, we pause to remember those whose lives have been lost. We honour their memory by recommitting to our work and also to extending kindness and respect.
May we choose compassion over fear, understanding over division, courage over silence. Because there is No Place For Hate in our communities.
What can we do today? Let us bring our courage and compassion together during these difficult times.
Check in with someone who may be grieving or feeling unsafe.
Attend a community vigil. Light a candle in your window.
Learn more about communities affected by hate and listen to their experiences.
Become an active ally.
Challenge misinformation.
Speak up when you witness racism or discrimination. Borrow from Jesse Lipscombe’s campaign - Make It Awkward.
Support organizations working to build inclusive, safe communities.
Commit to one act of kindness that will help someone feel like they belong.
When it seems like there is increasing division and hate, let us not yield to fear nor allow it to stop us from being brave and doing the right thing. Take the time to grieve, and support those grieving and then, when you’re ready, believe that there is strength in community and get involved to help create the spaces you want to live in.
What am I doing? I’ve been working on developing a No Place For Hate campaign that I will be making available to you for free. Watch for the announcement of the campaign’s launch.
In sympathy and solidarity,
Tymmarah Mackie, Founder & President
Fostering Diverse Communities Canada
