Doors are more open now in Saint John for people of colour than it was 50 years ago, but racism still turns it's ugly head.
That's according to Ralph Thomas, president of PRUDE (Pride of Race, Unity, Dignity through Education) and VP of NB Black History Society. He tells CHSJ news in tough economic times when opportunities are limited, people tend to look at differences and make decisions based on that.
Thomas grew up in the country in the Willow Grove are by St. Martins, and says people were much more accepting and helped one another. Whereas in the city 50 years ago, black people were excluded from certain buildings and functions.
Thomas doesn't believe racism will ever completely go away, saying people will judge anyone that's different, whether that be race, religion, sexuality, etc. But when racism does come around, PRUDE takes action through education and "nips it in the bud."
February is Black History month, for a list of events around the province, click here.
