The black family in Canada: A preliminary exploration of family patterns and inequality

This paper presents a preliminary and exploratory analysis of the general profile of the black family in Canada, based on data from the 1986 census. The primary focus is the interrelationship of family and household type, marital status, household income , and possible consequences for children, given the context of racism. The paper begins with a review of the relevant literature on marital status among black populations in North America and its possible effects on children. Similarities and differences in the historical and present day circumstances of black families in Canada and in the United States are summarized, and underlying reasons for these differences are discussed. The paper then presents and analyzes the 1986 census data on black families and children i n Canada. In examining the data drawn from the census, it is noted that the shortcomings in the methods of data collection, and the forced descriptive categories available for the black population on census forms, prevent a more accurate picture from emerging. Therefore, the analysis provides a general picture only, and does not deal with internal differentiation in the black population (e.g., differences among Canadian – born, West Indian or Caribbean, American, and African). The variables used in the analysis are: highest level o o f schooling, household income, household type, census family status, marital states, sex ratio, gender, place of birth, and ethnic/racial origin. Among the patterns noted are that: black children are more likely than white children to be in an extended family; one – third of black children live in households with incomes of less than $20,000; black females are more often separated, divorced, or never married than are white women and other visible minorities, black women experience a particularly imbalanced sex ratio, due mainly to Canada's immigration policy; and black children are 2.5 to 3 times more likely than white children to be living in a lone parent household. In addition to examining possible reasons for observed patterns, the paper concludes with specific suggestions for policy change that would equalize opportunities for blacks in vital areas (e.g. early childhood education). The need for further research is discussed.