Under the Equity Office
The task force under Roach will report to Lisa White, executive director of the Equity Office.
“James and Cynthia bring nuance, expertise and commitment to this critical phase of implementation,” she says. “We are delighted that they will be working alongside the Equity Office and the Black Perspectives Office.”
The task force’s efforts go hand in hand with the other work being conducted by the Equity Office, White notes.
“The Equity Office approaches institutional change through lenses such as accessibility, anti-racism and Black perspectives. This makes our work — training, programming, policy analysis, etc. — intentionally intersectional.”
She adds that Roach and Alphonse “will further fuel our commitment to do work that is much more than the sum of its parts.”
White also expresses her appreciation for Willkie’s vision and tireless work in ensuring the delivery of the final report.
“Angélique’s grace and leadership brought diverse stakeholders together to realize a shared goal. The results speak for themselves: a comprehensive action plan to address anti-Black racism at Concordia and a transformational change.”
After her intensive commitment, Willkie admits she’s ready to step back.
“It’s hard to let go after almost three years of non-stop investment, but I need the break, and I know James and Cynthia will get the job done,” she says. “In any case, it’s essential that this work not be tied to my person but, rather, to our institution, and passing the baton is the first step.”
Concordia support
Roach also praises Concordia President Graham Carr and Anne Whitelaw, provost and vice-president, academic, for their full backing during the process.
“Anne and Graham have been incredibly supportive and open, willing to have difficult conversations and make all their resources available to the task force. And by their endorsement, it’s really made everyone realize that this is an important institutional priority,” he says.
“The recommendations are going to help create a more inclusive and welcoming space for Black Concordians, which in turn benefits Concordia as whole,” Roach adds.
“I look forward to seeing more recommendations realized — and seeing units in the departments fully adopt and take ownership of the recommendations.”
Learn more about Concordia’s President’s Task Force on Anti-Black Racism.