Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 11: Support the work of the Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA)’s Diversity Committee in increasing the participation and representation of Muslim actors and characters in TV, film, radio and other cultural media in Canada, and in resisting the vilification and stereotyping of Muslim people in media content in Canada.

Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 12: Outreach and invite Muslim community allies to labour meetings, gatherings and events, and provide space to learn about the experiences and perspectives of Muslims themselves and learn about the work that unions and labour organizations are doing. Small gatherings for sharing and exchanging information, even just conversation can break down barriers and build solidarity.

Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 13: Partner with service organizations, community groups, schools and places of worship in your community that are providing services or assistance to Muslims.

Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 14: Lobby the federal government to ensure Canada’s humanitarian commitment to refugees continues and to lead by example, by standing up to any racism and hatred directed towards Muslim newcomers and other racialized groups in Canada and internationally.

Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 15: Include articles, commentaries or blogs in internal communication networks, so members can learn more about Muslims in Canada and how to help. Quickly deal with any backlash from members on your social networks too.

Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 16: Co-host and co-sponsor activities at community events (fairs, festivals, tournaments, etc.) where union members, community members and Muslims in Canada can interact: tobogganing races, hot chocolate or fruit cocktail socials, bake sales, BBQs, picnics, potluck suppers, etc.

Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 17: Seek out the leadership of your local Muslim community to keep the communication channels open between the community and your local union and labour council leadership.

Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 18: Publicly profile and promote union and labour council’s support and efforts in fighting discrimination against Muslims; sending a strong signal to everyone in the community. For example, write a letter to the editor or an opinion piece for local media, co-author it with community allies to show there is widespread support, organize a public statement (like a news release) to publicize your support efforts locally and how that connects with efforts across the country.

Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 19: Work with the CLC, affiliate unions and labour councils to actively participate in the federal government’s cross-country consultations on a new national anti-racism approach to find new ways to collaborate and combat discrimination.

Recommendations to trade unions

Recommendation 20: Work to increase equity representation in CLC committees and on decision making bodies such as Canadian Council.