Photo by Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo.
Good morning dear readers
As we enter Stage 3 of the lifting of the Covid 19 pandemic lockdown, I hope you and your loved ones are keeping safe and well. It’s been a struggle for most people, some more than others but it seems the elderly have suffered the brunt of the effects of this deadly virus. We urge the various levels of government to increase their scrutiny of seniors’ residences and put meaningful measures in place for their continued safety and well-being.
We are excited about the appointment of Yusra Osman as the City of Ottawa’s first anti-racism specialist, our Top Story for the month of August 2020. Together with our indefatigable Councillor Rawlson King, we expect great things from her challenging role in confronting and eliminating systemic racism from all of the city’s operations and services.
In keeping with our tradition, the August edition honours the 2020 graduates from various educational institutions. Black Ottawa Scene salutes Jayde Williams-Priddie, Dominique Peart and Sidney Anthony for their academic successes.
Our Guest Columnists continue to impress, with former RCMP officer Cal Lawrence giving his insight into the Black Lives Movement, while newcomer Tabitha Sabiiti addresses how to create a just world. Our career expert Dr. Helen Ofosu writes about the challenges of promotions on the job while Rev Bassey Ekong speaks to why people without vision fail.
The Black Lives Matter movement continues to gather momentum, vastly dominating social media discussions and showing up that anti-black racism does really exist in Canada. A good example is the recent apology from Ottawa Police after a racist 911 call from a white woman.
Here’s the result of the July poll: Do you believe the Black Lives Matter demonstrations will bring an end to anti-Black racism?
Yes 15% No 85%
Thank you to all who voted.
Do remember to vote in the August 2020 poll: Do you believe there will be a second wave of Covid 19?
All these and more in the August edition of Black Ottawa Scene.
Stay blessed and enjoy the rest of your summer.
Godwin Ifedi
Editor