In the Aftermath of Colten Boushie's Death and the Acquittal

question 252

Essay

In the aftermath of Colten Boushie's death and the acquittal of the white man who shot and killed him, Universities Canada - an organization that represents the country's institutions of higher learning - released a statement affirming its commitment to supporting the Indigenous community. The statement read:
We are fully committed to supporting our Indigenous students, faculty, staff and local communities now and in the weeks and months to come. As Canadian society grapples with the ongoing reality of racism and the challenges of reconciliation, Canada's universities reaffirm our commitment to fostering a renewed relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada, by examining and changing our own institutional approaches, policies, practices and structures. . . . As public institutions of learning, discovery, and community service that deeply value dialogue, debate, and cross-cultural exchange, Canada's universities are committed to a leadership role in advancing reconciliation in Canada.
Such sentiments are important but what is needed for genuine and effective change to occur are large-scale educational efforts. For example, educational endeavors must involve frank and extensive discussions that include the relevant concepts of systemic racism, racial alexithymia, the white racial frame, the pro-white subframe, the anti-others subframe, and counter-framing. What might such an educational endeavor look like?

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Definitions:

Cost Centers

Departments or segments within an organization that do not directly generate revenue but incur costs, essential for budgeting and financial analysis.

Budget

An accounting device used to plan and control resources of operational departments and divisions.

Budget Performance Report

A report comparing actual results with budget figures.

Cost Center

A division or department within a business that does not directly contribute to profit but incurs costs, used for budgeting and controlling expenses.