By: Kojo

Canada has taken a historic step towards addressing systemic racism and advancing the social and economic well-being of Black Canadians with the recent announcement of a $7.25 million investment in the creation of the National Institute for People of African Descent. The funding, to be spread over three years, was announced by Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, and is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent.

The institute, to be led by Caribbean African Canadian Social Services (CAFCAN), will serve as a vital hub for research, community engagement, and policy development focused on improving the lives of Black Canadians. The aim is to create a space that centers Black voices in the conversation around social justice and economic inclusion, while also addressing the systemic challenges that have long impacted Black communities across the country.

“Canada wins when we include people,” said Minister Khera, highlighting the government’s belief that diversity strengthens the country. She emphasized the transformative potential of the National Institute as the first of its kind in Canada. By focusing on tackling racism and discrimination, the institute is poised to celebrate the contributions of Black Canadians while shaping policies that create a more inclusive and equitable society.

The government’s commitment to this initiative is a continuation of its broader efforts under the UN International Decade for People of African Descent, which Canada endorsed in 2018. The decade, which spans from 2015 to 2024, was recently extended domestically to 2028, reaffirming the government’s dedication to supporting Black Canadians in areas such as entrepreneurship, social justice, and economic empowerment. In line with this, the federal government has already allocated $872 million to Black-focused initiatives, ranging from racial justice programs to economic dignity projects.

CAFCAN Board Chair Bola Adenuga and Executive Director Floydeen Charles-Fridal expressed their pride and excitement in leading this groundbreaking initiative. “We are humbled to lead, on behalf of diverse Black communities across Canada, the foundational phase for the National Institute for People of African Descent,” said the leaders in a joint statement. They underscored the significance of creating a national organization grounded in Africentric principles, with a focus on addressing key priorities such as education, health, and justice.

Charles-Fridal spoke passionately about the importance of having the right strategy and leadership in place to ensure the institute’s success. Reflecting on the efforts to establish the institute, she emphasized the role of ancestral knowledge and the strategic mindset of Black communities in navigating this crucial work. “We must be strategists, thinkers, and doers who operate on a high level, drawing on the wisdom of our ancestors to create lasting change,” she said, calling for continued support and collaboration from the wider community.

The establishment of the National Institute is part of a larger movement to address the socio-economic conditions and human rights of African-descended people in Canada. The institute will not only provide a platform for policy development but also serve as a beacon for Black Canadians and allies committed to promoting equality and social justice.

This announcement comes at a pivotal moment as Canada recently unveiled its updated anti-racism strategy, Changing Systems, Transforming Lives: Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy 2024-2028. Developed with input from communities affected by racism, the strategy aims to address systemic racism across the country, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in a more inclusive and prosperous society.

The launch of the National Institute for People of African Descent is a significant milestone in Canada’s journey toward addressing the challenges that have historically faced Black communities. With strong leadership from CAFCAN and a commitment from the federal government, this initiative holds the potential to make a lasting impact on the social fabric of the nation, creating a more just and equitable future for generations to come.

Photos by Valerie Augustine