The Launch of the Afro-Canadian Contractors Association: A New Era for Black Representation in the Construction Industry

As Black History Month unfolds, the launch of the Afro-Canadian Contractors Association (ACCA) stands out as a significant milestone in the quest for equality and representation within Canada’s construction industry. Established in September 2020 by a dedicated team of six board members, the ACCA aims not only to increase the visibility of Black-owned contracting companies but also to create a more equitable landscape for Black tradespeople across the country.

The Mission Behind ACCA

The ACCA was conceived with a clear mandate: to strengthen the presence of Black professionals in the contracting sector by embracing the principles of Talent, Respect, Unity, Skills, and Trades (TRUST). It aims to build a robust pool of experienced and qualified contractors specializing in residential and Institutional, Commercial, and Industrial (ICI) sectors. The vision is to foster an environment where Black contractors can thrive, ensuring fair representation and opportunities for all.

The Challenge of Racial Discrimination

Despite the contributions of Black contractors to various projects across Canada, racial discrimination continues to plague the industry. Studies indicate that even before they arrive at construction sites, many Black workers face rejection and significant barriers preventing their entry into Canada’s colossal $453-billion construction sector.

Stephen Callender, president of ACCA, stated, “Black contractors have a longstanding history of contributing to projects across Canada. Yet, full integration into the industry has only been achieved by a small subset of talented Black-owned construction companies.” His call for equality emphasizes the urgent need for systematic change, not merely within contracting firms but throughout the industry as a whole.

A Response to Recent Events

The urgency of ACCA’s formation was particularly highlighted by disturbing incidents of racism in the construction sector, such as the presence of nooses at job sites in the Greater Toronto Area last summer, during a time of heightened awareness following the murder of George Floyd. These events underscored the presence of systemic anti-Black racism in the industry, as acknowledged by Richard Whyte, chief estimator at EllisDon Corporation, who stated, "The formation of ACCA is much needed at a time when the Canadian construction industry has no choice but to admit there is a serious problem."

The need for a centralized organization like ACCA serves as an important first step in addressing these longstanding issues, providing a platform for Black-owned construction companies and amplifying their collective voice.

Barriers to Equal Employment

One of the challenges faced by Black contractors is the systemic barriers posed by unionized work environments. Many construction companies cite an inability to fulfill social procurement mandates due to a lack of accredited Black union tradespeople. However, this perspective often overlooks the complex socioeconomic barriers that prevent Black workers from accessing union membership, leaving them at a disadvantage in securing well-paying jobs.

Building a Future Together

ACCA aims to dismantle these barriers through unified advocacy and professional development. The organization is committed to offering a range of workshops tailored to educate Black contractors and help navigate the complexities of the construction industry. By establishing a supportive network and lobbying for reforms within unions and industry stakeholders, ACCA aims to create sustainable pathways to success for Black workers.

Conclusion

The launch of the Afro-Canadian Contractors Association marks an essential step forward in advocating for equity within Canada’s construction industry. By focusing on the principles of TRUST and tackling systemic discrimination head-on, ACCA is paving the way for a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable future for Black contractors and tradespeople. This initiative not only highlights the rich contributions of Black professionals in construction but also underscores the urgent need for systemic change to ensure fair treatment and equal opportunities across the board. As we commemorate Black History Month, the ACCA’s launch serves as a powerful reminder that progress is not only possible but imperative for the future growth and integrity of the industry.