DeRico Symonds: Halifax Legal Strategist talks Community Justice Strategy

In this compelling interview, we delve into the remarkable journey of Derico Symonds, a prominent advocate for Black and African Nova Scotian communities in Halifax. Mr. Symonds serves as the Senior Justice Strategist at the African Nova Scotian Justice Institute, where he tirelessly works towards crafting a comprehensive Black Justice Strategy. His mission is nothing short of transformative – to create a society where justice is truly blind, and where equity and fairness are afforded to all, irrespective of their racial background.

The Canadian Government maintains that ensuring access to justice is a fundamental tenet of Canadian society, one that lies at the heart of the nation's commitment to the rule of law. The Government of Canada has undertaken a steadfast mission to provide equitable access to justice for Black and racialized communities across the country, all while actively combatting systemic racism and discrimination entrenched within the justice system.

But according to the 2019 General Social Survey (GSS) on Canadians' Safety, a staggering 46% of individuals aged 15 and older from the Black community reported experiencing some form of discrimination in the preceding five years. This troubling statistic highlights the pervasive nature of discrimination in the lives of Black Canadians.

Even more disheartening is the fact that within the Black population, a substantial 41% of individuals reported experiencing discrimination directly related to their race or skin color. This figure stands in stark contrast to the mere 3% observed among the non-Indigenous, non-visible minority population, illustrating the deep-seated disparities that persist in Canada.

Derico Symonds' dedication to fostering a more equitable and just society serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a Canada where access to justice is a reality for every citizen, regardless of their race or ethnicity. His work is not only inspirational but also a testament to the enduring commitment of Canadians to uphold the principles of fairness and equality in the pursuit of a just society for all.