Following the death of George Floyd, the pain that the black community has been feeling manifested into a powerful protest — one aimed to stop systemic racism and police brutality once and for all. And while the height of the movement has been taking place within the United States, countries around the world have taken it upon themselves to fight for the cause and honor the memory of those who lost their lives to the police.

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Many Canadian cities staged protests of their own, and despite certain provincial leaders naively claiming that systemic racism is basically nonexistent, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appeared ready to acknowledge the role anti-Black racism still plays in Canada. “Over the weekend, we saw thousands across the country join peaceful protests against anti-black racism,” said Trudeau, during a press conference. “By standing together and denouncing the few that would try to derail the demonstrations, Canadians are sending a message that they will never tolerate injustice.”

“To young black Canadians, I hear you when you say you are anxious and angry,” he continues. “When you say you this brings back painful experiences of racism that you’ve faced. I want you to know that I’m listening and that your government will always stand with you.” When asked about Donald Trump’s use of militarized police against protestors, making direct mention to his church-photo op moment, Trudeau took over twenty seconds to contemplate his response.

“We all watch in horror and consternation at what is going on in the United States,” he continues. “It is a time to pull people together, but it is a time to listen. It is a time to learn what injustices continue despite progress over years and decades. But it is a time for us as Canadians to understand that we too have our challenges. Black Canadians and racialized Canadians face discrimination every single day. There is systemic discrimination in Canada, which means our systems treat Canadians of color differently than they do others. It is something many of us don’t see, but it is a lived reality for racialized Canadians. We need to see that…and take action.” 

HotNewHipHop sends our support to the entire Black community and all of those doing their part to ensure that justice is achieved.