March 11, 2021

Treaty 1 Territory, Homeland of the Métis Nation, Winnipeg, MB – In the Legislature today the PCs refused to pass legislation that would make workplaces safer and more inclusive spaces for all Manitobans especially BIPOC Manitobans. NDP MLA for St. Vital, Jamie Moses, brought forward a bill to address systemic racism in the workplace but the PCs refused to let it pass.

“All Manitobans have role to play in addressing systemic racism,” said Moses, “and that includes Legislators on both sides of the aisle. This is not a partisan issue. This is about combating systemic racism in the workplace and our communities. This bill reflects the voices of the BIPOC community and I was proud to bring it forward today. The PCs need to put partisanship aside and pass this Bill so we can make life better for BIPOC Manitobans.”

The bill would require all employees of provincial government bodies and agencies to complete annual and ongoing anti-racism training. This legislation is a community-led response inspired by feedback from the NDP’s survey on systemic racism in Manitoba.

“In the last year we’ve seen calls for racial justice and equality that demand immediate action,” said Moses. “The PC government cannot ignore those voices a day longer. It’s time to pass this legislation and build a fairer, more inclusive province for everyone.”