Theme: United for Equity – Empowering Black Canadians and Building Inclusive Communities
On February 12, 2026, Canada Virtuous Women (CAVIWO) hosted a powerful virtual event focused on confronting racism and advancing equity in multicultural communities. Convened from Ottawa, the gathering brought together speakers, community members, and youth voices for a meaningful dialogue on systemic racism, inclusion, and social responsibility.
The session began with a welcome from the CAVIWO Founder, who offered a land acknowledgment recognizing the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe people and honoring their enduring relationship with the land. Participants were also guided through virtual engagement protocols to create a respectful and courageous space for honest conversations about racism—both overt and subtle.
Addressing the Reality of Racism in Canada
The first speaker, Adjeh Sieni from Etobicoke, explored how racism in Canada often manifests quietly through systemic barriers, denial, and exclusion rather than overt discrimination. She urged participants to recognize the historical roots of racism tied to colonization and emphasized the need for organizations to move beyond performative diversity initiatives.
Drawing from personal experiences in workplaces and public spaces, Sieni highlighted how “polite” or silent racism can influence hiring, promotions, and opportunities. She reminded attendees that equality is not about treating everyone the same, but about recognizing existing barriers and pursuing intentional equity.
A Youth Call for Healing
Adding a powerful intergenerational perspective, Beltus Nyambi Jr. delivered a moving poem titled “Silent Racism – Let’s Heal the World.” His message encouraged participants to reject silent racism and to raise children who understand their dignity, worth, and equality.
Through a faith-centered reflection, he reminded the audience that viewing one another through the lens of love and compassion eliminates any justification for hatred and calls communities toward justice and grace.
Unlearning Racism
The second speaker, Oliver Nshom from the United States, addressed the topic “Confronting and Unlearning Racism.” Drawing from lived experiences, he emphasized that racism is learned behavior—and therefore it can be unlearned.
He challenged participants to take personal accountability, confront harmful narratives, and commit to ongoing learning. His message encouraged individuals not to be limited by societal stereotypes but to actively shape a more just and inclusive future.
Becoming Transformative Voices
The final speaker, Coach Irine Asanji, introduced the concept of the Four Voices of Racism, a framework describing common responses to racial injustice:
- Offensive Voice – Actively perpetuating racism
- Defensive Voice – Denying or minimizing racism
- Non-Responsive Voice – Remaining silent or disengaged
- Transformative Voice – Actively addressing injustice and promoting inclusion
Participants were encouraged to reflect on their own responses and intentionally choose to become transformative voices within their communities.
Community Reflections
During the open discussion, attendees shared personal experiences with racism and bias. One participant, Marilyn, spoke about facing stereotyping and dismissal in healthcare settings despite her professional qualifications. Her testimony underscored the importance of cultural humility, institutional accountability, and protecting personal dignity.
The discussion reinforced that multiculturalism requires more than tolerance, it requires education, respect, and structural change.
Key Themes from the Event
Several important themes emerged throughout the dialogue:
- Acknowledging systemic racism
- Addressing unconscious bias in everyday interactions
- Recognizing racism within marginalized communities
- Balancing cultural identity with mutual respect
- Moving from statements of diversity to measurable action
- Encouraging intergenerational dialogue and leadership
To ensure accessibility and inclusion, interpreter Nafissatou provided French summaries after each presentation, allowing Francophone participants to fully engage in the conversation.
Moving Forward
CAVIWO encouraged participants to remain engaged by completing the post-event survey, attending a follow-up virtual session on February 19, and joining the in-person community gathering on February 21 in Ottawa.
The event concluded with a shared understanding that anti-racism work requires continuous commitment, courage, and collaboration. CAVIWO’s Multiculturalism & Anti-Racism Event was not simply a conversation—it was a collective call to action.
Multiculturalism is more than coexistence. It is about equity, dignity, and the shared responsibility to build communities where everyone belongs.
Through initiatives like this event, CAVIWO continues to create platforms that amplify voices, challenge injustice, and inspire meaningful social change.
