Signals tend to reveal emergent phenomena sooner so that changemakers can turn their attention to possible opportunities, disruptions, innovations and developments that affect their missions, programs and work. Signals can become mainstream and evolve into trends — when a signal hits a certain threshold, for example, it might become a trend in the broader society or sector, and begin to diffuse rapidly.
Interconnected efforts and coalitions when fighting for human rights is more important than ever as many crises layer on top of each other, maintaining inequalities and impacting historically marginalized groups.
Chinatowns in cities across Canada have been facing vast gentrification, anti-asian racism, and a housing crisis that has only worsened since the pandemic hit. Now, the local population faces a dire lack of amenities and services.
Words like decolonization are not made for the global south. If the global cooperation and aid sector fails to use language that is meaningful, inclusive and accessible to everyone, conversations on advancing the sector’s future will remain one-sided.
COVID-19’s disproportionate impact on Black Canadians exposed longstanding economic and social inequities, and caused significant stress and trauma for the population. The CHN provides a way for these communities to heal collectively.
Many small organizations are limited from accessing grants through their lack of charity status, and operational power, while still being a driving force for vital projects. Without grantmakers who will adapt to their unique needs, these grassroots community groups will be stunted from growing their impact in their communities.
