Systemic Racism in the Federal Public Service: 45,000 Black Employees Seek Justice in $2.5 Billion Lawsuit

A class-action lawsuit, known as the Black Class Action, has been filed against the Canadian government, seeking $2.5 billion in damages on behalf of over 45,000 Black employees who have faced systemic anti-Black discrimination in the federal public service. This landmark case alleges that Black employees have been denied promotions and faced barriers to employment due to their race, dating back to 1970 

The lawsuit, led by Nicholas Marcus Thompson, a social justice advocate and union leader, aims to address the systemic racism and discrimination that has persisted in the federal public service. The plaintiffs are seeking long-term solutions, including:

– Establishment of a fund to address the psychological, pain, and suffering, and financial losses of both past and present Black employees. 
– External Reporting Mechanism: Creation of an external and independent body to report harassment or misconduct.
– Equitable Representation: Adoption of a policy to ensure the number of Black employees reflects the percentage of Black people in the general population.
– Black Equity Commission: Establishment of a commission to investigate challenges facing Black employees and implement solutions.

Despite the government’s claims of addressing racism and discrimination, they have spent nearly $8 million fighting the lawsuit, while allocating only $787,207 to develop and implement a mental health fund for Black federal public servants ³. The government’s actions have been criticized, with many calling for them to settle the lawsuit and address the systemic issues.

The case has sparked widespread attention, with organizations like the Federation of Black Canadians and the Black North Initiative supporting the plaintiffs. The United Nations Human Rights Council has also been involved, with the Black Class Action Secretariat filing a complaint against the federal government.