Black Lives Matter – Statement By Hamilton Ward 8 Councillor John-Paul Danko

Hello, Ward 8 Neighbours!

The Black Lives Matter movement in the United States and solidarity movements around the world are both inspiring and heartbreaking as they highlight the need for change.

I would like to thank the residents of Ward 8 and across Hamilton for taking the time to share their thoughts and well articulated recommendations.

For more, please continue reading below.

It's impossible to see the abject failure of the United States without thinking of systemic racism, rising neo-fascism, inequality, wealth disparity and far-right conspiracy protests happening right here at home. We are not immune.https://t.co/VzwO0H5Z8o

— John-Paul Danko (@JohnPaulDanko) June 2, 2020

Systemic Racism is Here in Hamilton

There is no question that systemic racism is an ongoing issue in Canada and right here in Hamilton.

There have been many concerning instances over the years of Hamilton Police Services’ interactions with Black people, people of colour, Indigenous, oppressed and repressed communities.

There are ongoing issues with Alt-Right hate groups in Hamilton and it’s clear that racist and neo-fascist elements are working hard to infiltrate and spread their intolerant ideologies in Canadian communities.

Protests Intolerance and Hate At Mohawk College Event

Racism, Inequality and Wealth Distribution

COVID has added an additional strain to Canadian society and further exposed the interconnected nature of systemic racism, inequality and wealth distribution.

I believe we have a unique opportunity to address some of these long-standing issues as we look to recovery.

Hamilton Police are certainly part of this conversation and I understand that there are very legitimate concerns over police conduct. I also believe that the Hamilton Police Service is committed to improvement.

Police Budgets and Priorities

I also share concerns that the Hamilton Police Services budget may not reflect the true needs and priorities of our communities.

In 2019, I took the rare step of voting against the approval of the Hamilton Police Services budget because of concerns with accountability. In 2020 Hamilton Police Services took special efforts to address those concerns – so I believe we are making progress on police budget accountability (although at a slow pace).

The Black Lives Matter movement has shown the world what Black people, people of colour, Indigenous peoples, oppressed and repressed people live with on an ongoing basis and, together with my colleagues on Hamilton City Council, I am committed to working towards constructive solutions here in Hamilton.

Questions or Concerns?

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office here.