Symbols matter when it comes to diversity

In 1946, Viola Desmond was wrongfully convicted simply because she was a black woman determined to exercise her right to full equality. Transgendered people are still denied full equality, and their cause suffered a setback last week as a result of the mean-spirited Progressive Conservative resolution.

The face of Viola Desmond on Canada’s new $10 note is much more than simply an image on plastic. It underscores Desmond’s groundbreaking battle for inclusion, as a black woman who had the audacity to sit in the whites-only section at the cinema, writes Sheila Copps.Photograph courtesy of Wikipedia

Opinion

BY SHEILA COPPS

November 26, 2018

OTTAWA—Last week was the best of times and the worst of times when it comes to moving the needle on equality. Symbols matter when it comes to diversity. That is why the face of Viola Desmond on Canada’s new $10 note is much more than simply an image on plastic. It underscores Desmond’s groun...

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