Toronto / November 2023
“Racism and colonialism are anything but neutral” - Debbie Douglas, February 9th, 2023.
Introduction
In June 2013, OCASI developed the original Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression Policy through consultation with leaders in the equity space. The revised policy is a culmination of work and efforts that rely on the knowledge and experience of leaders, staff, and organizations in the immigrant, migrant and refugee serving sector .
Building on the work and relationships established during the drafting of the original policy, the revised ARAO Policy practices a similar method of participatory approach involving extensive discussions, conversations, and decision-making with various employees, stakeholders, and networks/councils/collectives.
While this ARAO Policy broadly covers anti-racism and anti-oppression, agencies and members must understand, necessitate, and prioritize the structures and practices required to facilitate its advancement.
OCASI ARAO Policy Kit
OCASI ARAO Policy - Updated December 2023
OCASI ARAO Overview - December 2023.doc
ARAO Implementation Guide (For Organizational Adoption_Adaptation) - December 2023.doc
OCASI ARAO Glossary of Terms – December 2023.doc
The kit will be uploaded soon in French.
OCASI introduced the new policy and kit to member agencies at virtual launch sessions held on November 15 and November 22, 2023. The launch featured an introduction by Debbie Douglas, Executive Director; presentation of the kit by Asha Edwin and conversations with sector leaders:
- Axelle Janczur - Executive Director, Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services
- Rose Anguiano Hurst - Executive Director, Women’s Enterprise Skills Training Windsor Inc.
- Lucia Harrison - Chief Executive Officer, Kitchener Waterloo Multicultural Centre
- Surranna Sandy - Chief Executive Office, Skills for Change
View session recordings in English and French on the OCASIOntario YouTube channel.
Resources
We will curate policies from OCASI member agencies and other resources iin this space.
Please send us your own anti-racism anti-oppression policy and links to recommended resources by email to policyevents@ocasi.org