The Government of Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to diversity and inclusion with the launch of Canada’s new Anti-Racism Strategy: Changing Systems, Transforming Lives: Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy 2024–2028.

The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity and Persons with Disabilities, introduced the strategy, emphasizing the ongoing battle against racism despite progress. The initiative aims to strengthen federal leadership in combating racism and discrimination, striving for a fairer and more inclusive society.

The strategy targets key priority areas, including promoting economic, social, and cultural empowerment; advancing racial equity in immigration, health, and housing systems; reforming justice, law enforcement, intelligence, and public safety systems; and leveraging international engagement to drive racial equity and inclusion domestically.

Indigenous peoples, as well as Black, racialized, and religious minority communities, continue to face barriers to inclusion, hindering their full participation in Canadian society and the economy. The new Anti-Racism Strategy represents a $110.4 million investment to address these challenges across various sectors, including employment, justice, law enforcement, housing, healthcare, and immigration.

Over 70 federal initiatives are incorporated into the strategy, reflecting a commitment to ensuring federal policies, programs, and services align with Canada’s diverse population. Moreover, the government plans to invest over $70 million in local initiatives nationwide, fostering community partnerships to combat racism at the grassroots level.

Minister Khera emphasized the strategy’s significance in confronting racism within institutions and supporting community-led initiatives. The initiative is viewed as a roadmap towards a more inclusive future, inviting all Canadians to contribute to the solution.

The strategy’s development involved extensive consultations with racialized communities, ensuring alignment with their needs and aspirations. Parliamentary Secretary Sameer Zuberi underscored the strategy’s transformative potential in empowering Canadians impacted by systemic racism and discrimination.

Canada’s endorsement of the UN International Decade for People of African Descent and investments in Black communities further highlight the government’s commitment to equality and empowerment. The extension of efforts until 2028 reflects ongoing dedication to promoting equality and strengthening leadership within Black Canadian communities.

The United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent recommended the adoption of a second International Decade for People of African Descent, receiving support from Canada. The government’s pledge underscores its commitment to advancing racial equality and combating discrimination on both national and international fronts.best headline 9 words