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Government Hopes Education Trumps Racism

Thursday, 18 February 2016 06:07

Oxford County is not immune to the sting of racism, but with more education that could change.

WOODSTOCK - The Liberal government has announced they will be establishing an anti-racism directorate with a mandate for more education.

Premier Kathleen Wynne says the government is establishing the directorate now because issues faced by Syrian refugees and the debate over police street checks known as carding have thrust the issue of racism back into the spotlight. Woodstock Mayor Trevor Birtch thinks it's a great idea and says some of the comments lately have really bothered him and his family.  

"For those of you who know me my wife, who is an amazing woman, she came to Canada as a political refugee from El Salvador. So hearing some of the rhetoric lately regarding refugees, racism, etc, it has shaken me a little bit." 

Birtch says he has heard racist comments while he is out in the community with his wife and children.

"And with my own children there are times where people have said different comments to me and it really hurts. I don't think it's individuals that are looking to spread ill will, I think it is just individuals who are uninformed and been led astray and having this directorate will help educate the public in a way that will make us a more inclusive society." 

Birtch says it is tough when you hear those comments and the children hear those comments but they try to use it as a learning experience. 

"We always end up talking about how you need to be the stronger, better person and you need to respect those individual's freedom to voice their opinion. But at the same time if there is an opportunity to help educate them, help them to get to know you and know you are not a threat." 

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