Open Letter to Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Francois-Phillippe Champagne

Let’s condemn the discriminatory treatment of Africans living in China

Dear Minister Champagne,

The Coronavirus is a global pandemic, affecting countless nations, a threat that does not discriminate based on country of origin. I have heard concerns from the African diaspora in Brampton for their loved ones in response to the numerous reports of the government directed discriminatory treatment of Africans living in Guangzhou and spreading to other areas of China. These reports are disturbing and should be condemned by those in power. Food and shelter is a basic human right which we must not ignore during a time of crisis.

Now more than ever our humanity is being tested and those in government carry the responsibility of ensuring the most basic of human rights are protected during this crisis. In Canada we have condemned the mistreatment of people of Chinese descent during this pandemic. They have helped and continue to help make Canada what it is today. Canada must continue its tradition of leadership on the global stage by ensuring that the actions of government officials in China against Black Africans cease and ensure they are given access to food, shelter and medical care during this crisis.

Thank you for your urgent attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Patrick Brown

Mayor of Brampton