Conclusion

The engagement sessions across the Ottawa-Gatineau region have uncovered many promising ideas for addressing anti-Black racism in Canada’s justice system and have validated existing recommendations for improving access to justice for Black individuals.

Participants mentioned that many of the Framework’s recommendations are not new and should already be implemented. They acknowledged how diverse Black communities have tried for decades to foster better relationships with police. Participants highlighted the importance of addressing socio-economic challenges experienced by Black communities, including access to housing, lower employment opportunities, limited access to healthcare and other social determinants of justice. Investing in alternative justice measures, including restorative justice, could help reduce the overrepresentation of Black people as accused and incarcerated persons. It was also suggested to consider innovative approaches to justice, including expanding the Youth Criminal Justice Act to the age of 24.

Racial bias, assumptions about trustworthiness, and discriminatory mindsets are all eroding the confidence of Black communities in the justice system. In the absence of trust, Black communities will continue to perceive the justice system as a tool for the oppression and exclusion of Black communities. Accountability with consequential actions is necessary to bring about systemic change in the justice system.

Ottawa-Gatineau’s Black communities are worried that data collection could be used to criminalize Black communities rather than improve access to justice. There is also a concern that delays in collecting data will be used as an excuse for inaction. There is an urgent need to fix the wrongs of a justice system that far too often harms rather than protects Black people.

Jaku Konbit is honoured to have had the opportunity to facilitate engagement with Black communities in the national capital region. These engagements have yielded invaluable insights. Now is the time for the Department of Justice Canada to act on these testimonies. Black communities are determined and ready to see positive change. More importantly, they are expecting inclusion in the process. Nothing for us, without us.