Report to the Civic Authorities of Metropolitan Toronto and its Citizens

Publisher:  Cross Cultural Communications Centre, Resource Library, Toronto, Canada
Year Published:  1979
Resource Type:  Article
Cx Number:  CX2110

Abstract: 
This report was written by Cardinal Carter in response to a request by Paul Godfrey, the Chairman of Metro Council. The request was made because of "an upsurge in tension created by individual events and by a growing apprehension on the part of visible minorities of our city that their rights were wither infringed or, at the very least, downgraded" says Carter.

Carter outlines the situation in Toronto and makes the point that mutual tolerance and understanding is necessary on the part of both minority communities and the police force. Carter also points out that a balance must be struck so that minority groups are not treated with any special leniency, and at the same time, that they are not made the objects of prejudiced or unfair treatment by the authorities.

Section Three of the report deals with racism specifically, and the fact that it exists in Toronto is beyond doubt, according to Carter. This racism is lodged deep in Canadian history, and Carter suggests that "the only real solution lies in a change of heart in all of us".

Carter goes on to put forth certain suggestions to rectify the immediate situation in the Police Commission. He recommends a committee which would form a link between the Commission and the visible minorities. He also discusses the role of the media in the work of the police force among minority communities, complaints against police, verbal insults directed toward minorities recruitment of police force members, the rights and protection of police officers, and education of police in terms of their work among minorities.