It is only from understanding that we can act. 

(Page 9 of the Rights in focus: Lived realities in BC report, August 2024.)

 
The "Rights in Focus" report by BC's Office of the Human Rights Commissioner released a couple of weeks ago provides an overview of human rights issues in British Columbia. It examines ten key areas, including housing, education, healthcare, and employment, highlighting systemic inequities disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. The report combines data from various sources and personal testimonies to underscore the persistent challenges faced by these groups. Each section includes a "Spotlight" that delves into specific issues, aiming to raise awareness and prompt action to address these inequities and protect the fundamental right to substantive equality.
 
The employment section of the report highlights systemic discrimination in the labour market, affecting marginalized groups such as Indigenous people, women, immigrants, and people with disabilities. These groups face barriers to employment, unequal pay, and limited access to secure jobs and leadership positions. Discriminatory practices, including biases in hiring and promotion, persistent pay gaps, and the exploitation and vulnerability of temporary foreign workers, are supported by data that I found shocking.
 
This information is familiar to those working in employment programs and supporting the wider social care practice. What I found most interesting was the evidence that supports the report's statements, which is crucial for any advocacy work, whether you are on the front lines in employment programs or within the government advocating for funding from the treasury board. To paraphrase the quote from the beginning of this post, we act only through understanding. The report gives us the data for a compelling call to action.
 

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC