Photo by Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo.
Good morning folks
As we enter the fall season, it is the hope of all of us at Black Ottawa Scene, that you are all keeping well and safe in these extraordinary times. With the announcement of a second wave of the pandemic, it is important that we all continue to follow the public health guidelines on social distancing, regular hand washing and social isolation when necessary. We simply cannot afford to let our guard down in the face of this unpredictable virus.
Ottawa Police chief Peter Sloly has only been on the job less than a year and already he is the target of the systemic racism that is a constant feature in the lives of people of colour in Canada. It is gratifying therefore to see the Canadian Chiefs of Police rally round in his defence following the spurious and vicious attack on him by the Ottawa Police union head, our Top Story for October. Famed Black writers and activists Ewart Walters and Robin Browne also weigh in with their own insights into this totally unwarranted attack. On a similar note, we report on resignations at the senior level of PSAC, the largest Canadian public service union, following inappropriate responses to an article by a Black manager within the organization. All to show that systemic racism exists even in organised labour.
Regular contributor Andy Kusi-Appiah provides part 2 of his piece: Societies work because people work. Our Religion columnist Rev Bassey Ekong follows with “Your Steps directed by the Lord”. Career consultant Dr. Helen Ofosu provides invaluable expert advice on job transition during a pandemic.
We also report on achievements of Black individuals in Canada and world wide. Ottawa’s own Gwen Madiba received the United Way Community Builder award, while Burundi-born Ketty Nivyabandi was appointed Secretary General of Amnesty International (Canada). This is followed by the appointment of Nigerian-born Kike Lawal as Executive Vice President of CIBC. Which makes all of us proud!
On the local scene, we report on the launch of Impact Black Global, a youth-based organization aimed at supporting Black community groups organizations at all levels, through diverse and innovative programs and projects. Kudos to IBG founder Sisi Akhigbe.
All these and more in the October edition of Black Ottawa Scene.
Here is the result of the September poll: Do you feel that the measures by school boards are enough to protect children and staff when schools reopen?
Yes 16% No 84% Thank you to all who voted.
Remember to vote in the October poll: Who would you like to see as the next President of the United States?
Wishing you and your loved ones the best of the month of October.
Godwin Ifedi
Editor