UNDPAD, What happens now?

In 2014, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 2015-2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent (UNDPAD). The main objectives of the International Decade were to implement national and international legal frameworks, policies and programmes to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance faced by people of African descent, taking into account the particular situation of women, girls and young males.

In 2018, Canada finally endorsed UNDPAD. However, it - and the temporary programs set up by the government for the Black community - are set to end next year in 2024. Learn more 

What happens now?

We need urgent answers today from our government by making all our voices heard. We ask;

1. What is the permanent legislative policy for Black Canadians resulting from UNDPAD? Where is the progress of the working group recommendations from 2017?
2. The Employment Equity measure of 2021, when will the recommendations from the measure be actioned?
3. Can we receive confirmation that our Canadian government acknowledges the urgency and importance of the matter, and will extend the United Nations Decade for People of African Descent for another decade, considering Canada's engagement has been limited to only six of the initial ten years, with much work remaining for our country and community?
4. What plans does the government have to sustain, with increased funding including for operations, for the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) program, with the possibility of making it a permanent initiative?
5. Why hasn't the government responded to our calls, letters and messages? Would they respond quicker if it was a different community?

Why is a permanent legislative policy urgent and important for the Black community?

1. It's our doorway into the government permanently, finally.
2. A permanent seat at the table where we as a community contribute solutions to issues that affect us - anti-Black racism, employment, health, etc that are by us, for us & actually work for our community
3. Every other equity-seeking community e.g. our Indigenous brothers & sisters, LGBTQA+, persons with disability, veterans, and others have a permanent legislative policy but the Black community. Why?

What is our goal for urgent mobilization?

To provide ESDC a unified and strong voice asking for answers to how the Government of Canada can address the priorities of Black communities in Canada to promote long-term development under the Decade as part of their current and ongoing request for feedback from the community.

To support this unified voice of Black Canadians for change, please SIGN THIS PETITION and help us spread the word!

Who can sign this petition? EVERYONE CAN! Sign today to support your Black friends, family, neighbours and fellow Canadians. 

Yes we, and YOU can!