For Immediate Release
Toronto… (July 5, 2001) In response to the recent racist and pornographic e-mails reportedly being exchanged between OPP and Ministry of Natural Resources employees, the League for Human Rights of B’nai Brith Canada is hoping for serious ramifications for the perpetrators.
“It’s time for a strong message to be sent throughout the OPP that racism and sexism will not be tolerated! The reaction has to be strong enough not only to show our society’s disgust at such attitudes but to also produce a ripple effect throughout other organizations whether public or private”, asserted Steven Scheinberg, National Chair of the League for Human Rights of B’nai Brith Canada. “It’s disappointing and disturbing that public servants are engaging in such reprehensible activities.”
Racism and sexism in the workplace cause a poisoned work environment and contributes to under-representation of targeted groups in certain areas of employment. “There is nothing funny about racist and sexist jokes. They perpetuate negative stereotypes which cause real harm, not only for the targeted group but for all groups who are potential victims of discriminations”, advised Toni Silberman, Chair of the League for Human Rights, Ontario Region. “If, along with a strong response from employers, all those who receive or hear racist or sexist comments broke their silence and took a stand against intolerance, perpetrators would quickly get the message that these attitudes will not be accepted.”
The League for Human Rights encourages all workers to stand up to their colleagues or report their actions to their internal harassment offices or local human rights agencies. Sensitivity and diversity workshops can also be arranged for workplaces who want to make a strong statement against prejudice and discrimination.
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B’nai Brith has been active since 1875 as the country’s senior advocacy and volunteer agency.
For further comment,
For more information, please contact:
D
Dr. Karen Mock, League for Human Rights - (416) 633-6224, ext. 111, (416 )802-1105 (cell)
Amelia Golden, League for Human Rights - (416) 633-6224, ext. 130, (416)802-2163 (cell
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