Black Joy

Race, racism, and resilience

Throughout history, Black people have faced many challenges, working hard to succeed even when things were unfair. Despite this, they have found ways to smile, laugh, and celebrate. This happiness is powerful because it shows that Black people are not defined only by struggle but also by their ability to enjoy life.

The invention of race to classify, organize and justify the oppression of some humans over others has and continues to place dark-skinned people at the opposite end of power, privilege and all that is defined as good, worthy and human.

In Canada, this is seen through the forced displacement and assimilation of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people, and through immigration laws that prevented racialized people from being full participants in Canadian society. Systems, institutions, and individual racist beliefs result in unfair disadvantages for Black and Indigenous people and other racialized people. Specifically, policies, behaviours and beliefs that dehumanize and exclude Black people are classified as anti-Black racism.

Oppression

Oppression is when a group of people is treated unfairly or cruelly by others who have more power. This can mean being denied rights, opportunities, or respect because of things like their race, gender, or beliefs. It often makes people feel hurt, angry, and hopeless.

Assimilation

Assimilation is when people from one culture start to adopt the customs, habits, and way of life of another culture. It can mean learning a new language, changing the way they dress, and adopting new traditions.

Displacement

Displacement is when people are forced to leave the place where they live. They have to move to a new place where they may not know anyone or have any of their things. This can be very hard and scary for those who must leave their homes.

Racialized

Racialized means being seen and treated differently because of race or skin colour. This happens when people make assumptions about others based on their appearance, often leading to unfair treatment or discrimination including unequal access to resources and opportunities.