Rising 2025: Black Excellence and Canadian Policy (FON1-E34)

Overview

Delivery method

Hybrid

In-person

Online

Duration

3 days (February 10,11 and 12, 2025)

Audience

All public servants at all levels; open to the general public

Description

On January 30, 2018, the Government of Canada officially endorsed 2015 to 2024 as the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent (UN Decade). This important milestone signified the government’s commitment to learning more about issues specific to Black Canadians, which includes improving research and disaggregated data collection. On February 7, 2024, Canada further cemented this commitment when it announced it would extend the UN Decade to 2028 to provide more time to combat anti-Black racism.

In partnership with the Black Executives Network and the Federal Black Employee Caucus, this 3-day conference will bring together government officials, community leaders, and subject matter experts to discuss the progress on Canada’s policies, programs and initiatives implemented since 2018 under the UN Decade’s pillars of recognition, justice, and development. Outcomes from this conference will be used to inform and bring about new insights to future initiatives for Black communities in Canada.

Participants will explore key themes such as economic empowerment, health and wellness, technology, justice reform, and the role that government policies play in advancing racial equity for Black communities in Canada. They will also engage in interactive workshops that address critical issues, including harassment and discrimination, challenges faced by Black women in the workplace, and mental health within the Black community.