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African Americans In Canada Essay

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Recommended: Racial discrimination in the twentieth century

The issue of a disproportionate percentage of African Americans in Canada's prison system has a long and complex history that can be traced back to the nation's early days of colonization and slavery. The roots of this multifaceted issue can be found in the systemic racism and discrimination that have been a part of Canadian society for centuries.

The history of African Americans in Canada can be traced back to the 17th century, when the first black slaves were brought to the country by French and British colonizers. These slaves were used primarily for labour on plantations and in households, and they were treated as property rather than human beings. This system of slavery persisted in Canada until 1834, when it was officially abolished. After abolition, …show more content…

Specific examples from the past that support the disproportionate percentage of African Americans in Canada's prison system include the case of the Black Loyalists, who were promised freedom and land by the British government in exchange for their loyalty during the American Revolution. However, many of these Black Loyalists were denied the land and resources they were promised and were forced to live in poverty and marginalization. This lack of resources and opportunities led to a similar pattern of poverty and unemployment, which also increased the likelihood of involvement in the criminal justice system. Both slavery and the Black Loyalist experience have contributed to the problem of racial profiling and bias within the criminal justice system, which has led to a disproportionate number of African Canadians being incarcerated. Additionally, in the 20th century, African Canadians faced discrimination in housing, employment, and education, which led to high rates of poverty and unemployment in black communities. All of these past events have greatly influenced the problem that exists today, as the legacy of slavery and discrimination has

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