Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce
Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce (DRART) is part of the Region's commitment to develop and implement an Anti-Racism Framework to ensure a healthy workplace and to address racism within the communities the Region serves.
The Taskforce includes racialized community members with lived experiences; representatives from industries, associations and public institutions; Regional Councillors; Regional staff; and the CAO of Durham Region.
The mandate of the Taskforce is to act in an advisory role to Regional Council, through the Finance and Administration Committee, on issues related to racism—structural, systemic and interpersonal. The work of the Taskforce is guided by its Council approved Terms of Reference.
The scope of activities members may undertake include:
- Providing advice, feedback and guidance to Regional staff and Council on implementation of Durham Region’s Anti-Racism Framework and initiatives designed to advance equity.
- Supporting and enabling successful implementation of Durham Region’s anti-racism plans by engaging and influencing relevant partners and networks.
- Providing accurate and transparent reports to Regional Council on progress in the implementation of Durham Region’s anti-racism plans.
- Hosting events and providing forums for residents to learn more about what the Region and its partners are doing to address racism.
Make a difference in your community. Apply to join DRART.
The Region of Durham is currently seeking two community members and one institutional representative to join DRART. All applicants must live or work in Durham Region. In addition, the institutional representative should be employed by any of the following organizations:
- Community and socially focused organizations
- Professional Associations
- Healthcare and non-profit organizations
- Academia with a focus on anti-racism or anti-oppression
Visit the Region of Durham's Committees page to apply.
Updates, insights and information - read the latest post on our news feed.
Meet the members
 Shauna BookalShauna is a recognized leader in community relations committed to providing advice and expertise that support coaches and athletes. Passionate about creating inclusive programming, Shauna continues to inspire, motivate and encourage positive change. |  Pita-Garth CasePita-Garth is a dedicated community advocate with a passion and vision for strengthening communities by addressing barriers faced by diverse groups. With a creative mind, Pita-Garth is always open and willing to try new things by meeting people where they are at to receive different perspectives. |  Ruvette CoelhoRuvette is a medical radiation therapist at the Durham Regional Cancer Centre. Passionate about social justice, health care and education, Ruvette has dedicated most of her adult life learning about how to further these causes. |
 Akuah FrempongAs a healthcare administrator in Durham, Akuah envisions a healthcare system that acknowledges and incorporates an individual’s intersectionality for more holistic, accessible and client-centred care. Akuah is looking forward to working with the DRART team and connecting with the Durham community to develop policies and programming with the goal of making Durham Region more inclusive for all. |  Trynée HancockTrynée is an active community member with a passion for volunteerism and community engagement. Bringing a distinct perspective and experience to the community, Trynée is looking forward to celebrating and advocating for the representation of the rich diversity within Durham Region. |  Jeany MunawaCommitted to removing barriers, Jeany works to provide accommodations to foster safe and health workplaces. Jeany is frequently engaged in community building and strives to achieve positive outcomes for all. |
 Brianna NelsonBrianna’s main focuses are mental health, youth engagement, research, and community development. Along with a commitment to social justice and amplifying the voices of Black, Indigenous and other self-identified womxn of colour, Brianna brings extensive experience in building systems where knowledge-sharing, leadership, healing and creativity are prioritized. |  Channon OyeniranInterested in Black History and eradicating racism against the Black community from an early age, Channon’s keen interest and passion in these areas, helped her realize she must do all she could to educate others and raise awareness of the rich history of Black people. |  Nikhila SamuelAn advocate of anti-racism education, Nikki has a keen interest in the topics of diversity, equity and inclusion in educational institutions. Nikki brings more than 10 years of experience working in community development and post-secondary settings; training, advocating and developing culturally appropriate programming and services for marginalized youth and adult learners. |
 Jackie Williamson Jackie is a faculty member in the nursing program at Durham College and belongs to various committees and panels addressing racial barriers, violence, oppression, and mental health and addictions. |
Gail Wilson-Beier Personal life stories prompted Gail’s desire for social justice and addressing systemic barriers. Gail’s lived experiences are applied to her work on marginalization, identity and diversity. |
-
See the hate, stop the hate – Reporting Hate Activity Initiative
The number of crimes and incidents fuelled by racism and discrimination in Canada is on the rise.
In response to this, the Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce (DRART) has developed new informational posters to help raise awareness about hate activity and encourage reporting of such incidents. Our goal is to ensure that community members can identify hate activities when they occur and know where support can be accessed.
Reporting hate activity in Durham Region
Feel free to print the posters in 11 x 17 to ensure accessibility and add the PDF to your digital collection of resources.
Together, we can create safe and welcoming communities.
Jeany, Shauna and Councillor Lee
On behalf of the Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce
-
Amplifying the impact of Durham Region Association of Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs
The Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce is committed to fostering a more equitable and inclusive community for all. We believe that recognizing and supporting the outstanding work of local individuals and organizations is essential to achieving this goal. That said, we'd like to highlight the Durham Region Association of Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs (DRABPE), a vital force in our community.
DRABPE plays a crucial role in empowering Black professionals and entrepreneurs in Durham Region. By providing networking opportunities, mentorship, and resources, they help to create a supportive environment where Black-owned businesses can thrive. Their dedication to fostering economic growth and promoting diversity within the business community is truly commendable. Learn more about events hosted by DRABPE and how to volunteer or become a member at https://drabpe.org/. -
DRART invites you to celebrate Emancipation Day!
August 1 marks Emancipation Day. On this day in 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act took effect, initiating the long road to freedom for enslaved African people, and descendants in parts of the Caribbean, Africa, South America as well as Canada. As we approach Emancipation Day, we are encouraged to reflect on the transatlantic slave trade and the deaths of millions on their forced journey out of Africa. By confronting this painful past, and the ongoing injustices experienced by Black communities we can unite in our advocacy against anti-Black racism. As we unite, let’s recognize the resilience and leadership of Black communities in eliminating racial discrimination and celebrate their continuing contributions to the social fabric of this country.
Shauna, from DRART, explains the importance of this day:
I believe Emancipation Day holds significant importance to African/Caribbean Canadians. The historical legacies of slavery and segregation have entrenched disparities in access and opportunities, which persist today. Our predecessors have tirelessly advocated for a brighter future, endeavouring to pave the way for upcoming generations to success and flourish in the fields where representation of African/Caribbean Canadians is lacking.
Reminder! Join us for the regional Emancipation Day Celebration. This year’s celebration takes place on Thursday, August 1 at Esplanade Park in Pickering. The theme for 2024 is Courage from our Heritage, Empowerment for Tomorrow!
Event details and information on Emancipation Day can be found at durham.ca/EmancipationDay.
-
Join the Taskforce in Countering Hate Speech
June 18 marks the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the harms of hate speech and promoting inclusion. There is no place for hate in Durham Region. The Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce is taking a stand against all forms of hate activity today and everyday.
The Taskforce is committed to fostering a strong and inclusive region. By welcoming and celebrating what makes us unique, we can create a place where everyone can thrive. We can build healthy communities on a foundation of respect and understanding.
If you witness or experience hate speech or a hate motivated crime or incident, you are encouraged to report it. For more information, please visit Durham Regional Police - Stop the Hate! Report Bias and Hate.
Helpful resources:
Canadian Human Rights Commission
Council of Agencies Serving South Asians
Ontario Human Rights Commission
Signup Banner
