Statement from Minister Khera on the International Day for People of African Descent
On the International Day for People of African Descent, we honor and celebrate the significant contributions of people of African descent, both within Canada and globally.
For generations, individuals of African descent have been integral to various sectors in Canada, including science, sports, politics, business, research, education, and the arts. Their impact has been instrumental in shaping our national identity and enriching our communities, making them more dynamic and prosperous each day.
Today also provides an opportunity to acknowledge Canada’s historical challenges and the ongoing systemic barriers, racism, and discrimination that people of African descent face in their daily lives.
The Government of Canada is committed to the principle of inclusion, striving to build a just, equitable, and thriving nation for future generations. This commitment led us to endorse the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent in 2018, making Canada the first OECD member to officially recognize this UN Decade.
Since our endorsement, we have allocated up to $872 million to initiatives focused on racial justice, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment. Key programs such as the Black Entrepreneurship Program, the Black-Led Philanthropic Endowment Fund, and the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative are designed to support and enhance the capacities of Black-led, Black-focused, and Black-serving organizations across Canada.
Although the UN Decade spans from 2015 to 2024, we have extended our federal efforts domestically to 2028 to further promote equity and empower Black communities. Additionally, in April, Canada expressed support for the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent’s call for a second Decade.
On this International Day for People of African Descent, I reaffirm our dedication to supporting Black communities in Canada in achieving their full potential and working towards a more equitable, inclusive, and just future for all.