Peter Fragiskatos
Peter Fragiskatos
Member of Parliament for London North Centre
MP Fragiskatos' Statement on the Black Lives Matter Protest in London, ON
June 8, 2020

MP PETER FRAGISKATOS’ STATEMENT ON THE BLACK LIVES MATTER – LONDON ONTARIO PROTEST:

The murder of George Floyd has sparked calls for justice and equality that have not been seen in decades. We are witnessing the unfolding of history. Thousands gather peacefully on a daily basis throughout the United States and Canada and demand that more be done to combat anti-Black racism and the hate that drives it.

On Saturday, those who gather in Victoria Park will express the same sentiment. I support this message and desire for change unequivocally. However, on the advice of my personal physician, I have decided to observe the gathering virtually. This is a decision taken for health reasons and I do not disparage the choice made by those who will be attending. I hear, see and acknowledge their anger and frustration.

Our country has made enormous progress in the struggle against racism. Human rights principles are enshrined in our laws. The Charter of Rights ensures that we are protected from the potential excesses of the state. Multiculturalism is now a value that is widely embraced. All of these achievements are important, remarkable even. But, perhaps that progress has made us complacent.

Anti-Black racism is a lived reality for so many in our country and city. Our fellow citizens continue to be judged not by the content of their character, but by the colour of their skin. This is also true for Indigenous peoples and people of colour more generally. None of this is acceptable and until it is addressed, we are all diminished. The advances of the past do not make up for the failures of the present. As many in this movement for change have taken to saying, all lives cannot matter until Black lives matter.

This moment has been called a “turning point” by many. I certainly hope it will be. Whether this happens will depend on all of us joining together as allies to listen, learn and think about what steps can be taken in the short and long term to create a more just country and a better world. Tomorrow offers an opportunity to do just that. I do not have the answers on how to best approach a meaningful path forward that can lead to lasting change. Yet, what is clear is that we must all do more. Indeed, I must do more.

I have never been the victim of racism but I will continue to do my best to stand as an ally to the Black community of London and work with my colleagues at the federal, provincial and municipal levels to keep advancing an anti-racist agenda. We have no choice because there is no middle ground in this struggle. Let us embrace the future with that truth at the forefront of our actions.

Sincerely,

Peter Fragiskatos, Member of Parliament (MP) London North Centre

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