Former lieutenant-governor decries 'perfect examples of systemic racism' in Nova Scotia
Former Lt.-Gov. Mayann Francis isn't holding back when it comes to recent moves made by the new Progressive Conservative government.
"Recently, there were decisions that were made by the new Nova Scotia government that are perfect examples in my view, of systemic racism and systemic discrimination," Francis said during a Zoom event with George Elliot Clarke on Wednesday evening.
Francis is concerned Dr. Kasa Munroe Anderson was removed as the deputy minister of communities, culture and heritage and that the health board was dismissed and replaced with all white individuals.
She is also expressing concern that Pat Dunn, a white man, was named Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs.
"For me, all of these decisions are a step backward and I have to tell you, when I heard about it, I said, it's going backwards. And it did have an effect on me, thinking about it for days and days and days cause you see, I have personally experienced racism in government, and in the health-care industry," said Francis.
Premier Tim Houston has faced backlash over his decision to name Dunn African Affairs Minister.
"There were some steps we took as a new government that we thought were the right steps, particularly the appointment of the cabinet minister from our elected caucus. It was not meant to send a message we don't care and if that's the message that's been sent, I apologize," said Houston.
Dunn said he's been listening to the reaction to his appointment and plans to reach out to many community organizations and key stakeholders to learn and understand the issues.
"I am committed to listening to the community and working on behalf of the community to earn their trust," said Dunn.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.