Impact of Race and Culture Assessment (IRCA)
The African Canadian Civic Engagement Council (ACCEC) writes impact of Race and Culture Assessment (IRCA) for all members of African descent to provide the court with a complete picture of the individual’s social location family and highlight the specific circumstances that contributed to the individual’s involvement in the criminal justice system.
The Impact of Race Culture Assessment (IRCA) is a report that provides the judge with a complete picture of an individual’s background, histories, by contextualizing the circumstances and experiences of individuals of African descent from the Black community. The report provides information on the historic and intergenerational trauma and understanding of the individual’s community while articulating the circumstances of an accused for a judge to make informed sentencing and release decisions.
ACCEC’s pre-sentencing reports are vital resources for Black Albertans, law firms, and the judicial system. These reports provide a comprehensive view of an individual’s background, highlighting factors like historic and intergenerational trauma that contribute to their involvement in the justice system. By contextualizing the experiences of individuals of African descent, ACCEC helps judges make informed decisions on sentencing, rehabilitation, and community re-entry.
Led by ACCEC’s President and CEO, Dunia Nur, these reports are rooted in extensive knowledge of social work, African Indigenous Knowledge Systems, and trauma-informed care. Despite no funding for this program, she has devoted her time and expertise to pioneering these reports, which have influenced case law in Alberta, addressing anti-Black racism and rehabilitation.
ACCEC’s advocacy efforts recently led to the recognition and compensation of pre-sentencing report writers, though challenges remain in securing support for specialized training. Despite limited resources, ACCEC has developed advanced training programs that are now nationally recognized. This dedication, alongside collaboration with scholars, has enhanced the impact of their work. ACCEC also plays a key role in preparing bail plans and immigration assessments, all with the goal of reducing the overrepresentation of Black individuals in the criminal justice system and promoting equitable public safety.,
Relevant Links & Information
The report provides information on the historic and intergenerational trauma and understanding of the individual’s community while articulating the circumstances of an accused for a judge to make informed sentencing and release decisions.
CBC News — How Systemic Racism is Factoring Into Sentences for Black Albertans
Reported Decisions — R v Chol, 2022 ABPC 41
