Canadian government to provide $45 million for new Anti-Racism strategy

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Finance Minister Bill Morneau

OTTAWA – The 20I9 federal budget, tabled on Tuesday by Finance Minister Bill Morneau.

proposes  to provide $45 million over three years, starting in 2019–20, to support a new Anti-Racism Strategy.

The budget  noted that around the world, ultranationalist movements have emerged. and that In Canada,

those groups are” unfairly targeting new Canadians, racialized individuals and religious minorities—threatening the peace, security and civility of the communities we call home.”

 

“Taking its cue from Canadians, the Government is committed to fostering and promoting a Canada where every person is able to fully and equally participate in our country’s economic, cultural, social and political life,” it said.

The key purpose of the Anti-Racism strategy will be to find way”

to counter racism in its various forms,” with a strong focus on community-based projects.

It noted that these projects could include developing new public educational materials or programs that help to build skills and provide leadership and employment opportunities.

“At the core of this strategy will be an Anti-Racism Secretariat that will work across government to identify opportunities, coordinate activities and engage with our diverse communities, “it said.

Further details on the Anti-Racism Strategy and the Secretariat will be announced at a later date.

In recognition of the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, Budget 2019 also proposes to provide $25 million over five years starting in 2019-20, for projects and capital assistance”  to celebrate, share knowledge and build capacity in our vibrant Black Canadian communities.”