Over the past years, we’ve seen an increase in disruptions that impact mental health both at a system and individual level as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Racism has been a significant topic at the front and center during this same time. If you take into consideration the civil rights movements like Black Lives Matter and Reconciliation with Indigenous and First Peoples of Canada, the impact on mental health over two short years is significant.
The reality is that many Black, Indigenous and people of colour continue to live with the negative impacts of racism on a daily basis. Additionally, evidence-based academic research has proven that there is a negative mental health effect when witnessing acts of racism as a bystander.
This webinar provides a historical context of the impacts of racism on mental health and how they manifest in the present day. This space will provide an opportunity to learn about the intersections of racism and mental health so that individuals can understand the root causes.