BlackNorth Initiative Applauds Federal Budget Investments Into Black Communities

Budget presents transformational opportunities for Black Canadians

TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The BlackNorth Initiative welcomed several investments and commitments in the 2021 Federal Budget presented by Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. It represents an acknowledgement of the work that needs to be done and proposed concrete investments to start addressing issues critical to Black Canadians and the communities where they live.

The government’s $30 billion commitment to childcare is transformational and will give working mothers, particularly those of colour, more support and pathways to success in today’s economy. The additional investments and changes in Black community support programs, enhanced collection of race-based data, public service recruitment, mental health supports, and Black entrepreneurialism are sorely needed.

“We are pleased with these investments and look forward to Black community-led organizations working closely with the federal government to roll-out and execute on these investments.” said Dahabo Ahmed-Omer, Executive Director of the BlackNorth Initiative. “The Canadian Coalition of Black Communities, comprised of over 220 Black-led organizations, came together to advocate for more support from government. This success shows what we can do when working together.”

Specifically, BlackNorth would like to highlight the following initiatives:

• $200 million in 2021-22 to Employment and Social Development Canada to establish a new Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund, which will be led by Black Canadians, to help combat anti-Black racism and improve social and economic outcomes.

• $100 million in 2021-22 to the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative at Employment and Social Development Canada.

• Amendments to the Public Service Employment Act to affirm the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce and avoid biases and barriers in hiring.

• An additional $51.7 million over four years, starting in 2021-22, for the Black Entrepreneurship Program.

The commitment of both the private and public sector are critical to our efforts in dismantling anti-Black systemic racism in Canada. Budget 2021 signals a significant commitment in the beginning of this journey.