Nova Scotia has to do more to confront systemic racism: Halifax mayor

Halifax Mayor Mike Savage says Nova Scotia has to do more to confront systemic racism.

He says the poisonous work environment at the municipal transit garage described in a Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission board of inquiry decision this week is “very disappointing.”

READ MORE: N.S. Human Rights Commission finds Halifax Transit mechanic discriminated in ‘poisoned work environment’

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Savage says the city did the right thing when it dismissed the main perpetrator of the racial slurs and harassment in 2001, but that he returned to work after an appeal.

He says the city has tried settle the case before, and has never disputed that there was wrongdoing.

READ MORE: Halifax bus mechanic who allegedly created ‘poisoned work environment’ no longer works for HRM

Savage says systemic racism against African Nova Scotians has impacted all levels of government and organizations in Nova Scotia and that “we all have to do better.”

A hearing is set for Monday to discuss the awarding of damages or assignment of mandated training.