COCA Anti-Racism Statement
The Council of Ontario Construction Associations stands with its member associations in our commitment to recognize, address and eradicate all forms of racism and inequities faced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) within our organizations and the construction industry at large, including companies, unions, employer associations, workers and job sites.
COCA is on a journey of continuous learning about systemic and individual racism in our society, our organizations and our industry. While on this journey, we will take action to challenge racism in all its forms, whether intentional or unintentional.
Simply put, COCA will not tolerate any forms of racism – period.
We are engaged in this effort alongside our member associations, many of whom have already taken steps to create and promote an inclusive workplace culture free of racism, bullying, and harassment of any kind.
COCA is taking action in these areas:
- We commit to developing policies and practices that foster a culture of anti-racism within our organization.
- We commit to sharing resources that support our members in their respective journeys to becoming diverse, inclusive and welcoming workplaces.
- We commit to promoting and celebrating the work and perspectives of BIPOC individuals in our industry.
- We commit to sharing updates on our progress towards these goals.
As individuals and organizations, we are at various points along the journey to becoming anti-racist. This work will cause discomfort for some, but discomfort means we are making progress. Lasting change is only possible when we move out of our comfort zone.
Achieving racial equality in our industry and our society is an urgent, vital and collective goal. When our individual differences are recognized, respected and valued, we are all stronger.
Anti-Racism Toolkit
The fight against racism has taken on a new sense of urgency. It’s a priority issue across North America and in all sectors of the economy, including the construction industry. High-profile incidents of racially motivated violence and harassment aimed at Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) have shone a spotlight on our collective responsibility to take action.
Systemic and lasting change won’t happen overnight, but the journey to racial equality starts with a few steps. The best time to begin is now.
COCA has created this online resource as a living document and a launching point for continued learning and action.
This toolkit covers five areas:
- Why We Need to Take Action Against Racism
- Your Legal Rights and Responsibilities
- Writing an Anti-Racism Statement
- Sample Policies and Practices
- Recommended Reading and Viewing
Download the COCA Anti-racism toolkit
COCA Stronger Together
Acoustical Association Ontario
Architectural Glass & Metal Contractors Association
Association of Millwrighting Contractors of Ontario
Barrie Construction Association
Canadian Farm Builders Association
Canadian Institute of Steel Construction
Concrete Floor Contractors Association
Construction Association of Thunder Bay
Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario
Grand Valley Construction Association
Hamilton-Halton Construction Association
Interior Systems Contractors Association of Ontario
London and District Construction Association
Niagara Construction Association
Northeastern Ontario Construction Association
Ontario Association of Demolition Contractors
Ontario Erectors Association
Ontario Industrial Roofing Contractors Association
Ontario Masonry Contractors’ Association
Ontario Painting Contractors Association
Ontario Sheet Metal Contractors Association
Ontario Structural Steel Fabricators Association
Pipe Line Contractors Association of Canada
Reinforcing Steel Institute of Ontario
Sarnia Construction Association
Sault Ste. Marie Construction Association
Toronto Construction Association
Utility Contractors’ Association of Ontario
Windsor Construction Association