On September 29, 2024, Sonia Sidhu, MP for Brampton South, joined Minister Kamal Khera, and Ruby Sahota, MP for Brampton North, along with other federal and local officials at Brampton Masjid to unveil Canada’s first-ever Action Plan on Combatting Hate (CAPCH). This landmark initiative is a comprehensive effort to address the rising hate crimes and create safer, more inclusive communities across the country.
The CAPCH is built around three key pillars: empowering communities to prevent hate, supporting victims and survivors, and fostering institutional trust and readiness. The federal government has committed $273.6 million over six years, with an additional $29.3 million in ongoing funding to tackle hate from various angles, including raising public awareness and enhancing security resources for at-risk communities.
During the event, Minister Kamal Khera stressed the importance of standing together against hate:
“Everyone has the right to feel safe, regardless of who they are or what they believe in. This Action Plan reflects our commitment to ensuring that every Canadian can live free from fear. Hate has no place in our communities, and we are committed to supporting victims, protecting at-risk groups, and creating spaces where diversity is celebrated.”
Sonia Sidhu, MP for Brampton South, echoed Khera’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of community resilience:
“In a city as diverse as Brampton, we must ensure that everyone feels safe and respected. This Action Plan on Combatting Hate is a step forward in protecting our communities and making sure that no one is targeted for being who they are. Together, we will continue to foster a more inclusive and united society.”
Ruby Sahota, MP for Brampton North, added her voice in support of the plan:
“Hate, in any form, is unacceptable. As we see a rise in hate crimes across the country, this Action Plan provides the tools and resources necessary to protect vulnerable communities. We are building a Canada where everyone can live free from discrimination and thrive in their uniqueness.”
This announcement is part of a broader federal strategy to fight discrimination, racism, and hate crimes, ensuring that all Canadians can live in a society that embraces diversity. Community leaders and organizations have widely praised the CAPCH, viewing it as a critical step in addressing the alarming rise in hate incidents in recent years.