A significant milestone in Canada’s journey towards diversity and inclusion as Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities, alongside Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, celebrated the Foundation for Black Communities’ announcement of the results of its first call for proposals. Supported by the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund, this initiative will allocate a total of $9.1 million to 84 transformative projects aimed at combating anti-Black racism and enhancing the socio-economic status of Black communities in Canada. An additional 23 projects are nearing completion, potentially increasing the impact to 107 initiatives.
The Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund, established by the Government of Canada, serves as a sustainable funding source for Black-led, Black-focused, and Black-serving organizations. This strategic move empowers Black communities nationwide, fostering an environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Building on the Government’s endorsement of the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, which spans from 2015 to 2024, Canada has extended its domestic efforts until 2028. This extension underscores the nation’s dedication to promoting equity and empowering Black communities. Since 2018, the Government has committed up to $860 million to initiatives centered on racial justice, entrepreneurship, and economic dignity. Furthermore, Minister Khera endorsed the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent’s proposal to renew the International Decade for an additional decade.
Minister Kamal Khera stated, “Diversity and inclusion make Canada stronger. Today’s announcement builds on transformative investments our government has made to empower Black communities across Canada since endorsing the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent in 2018. Through the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund, we have created a sustainable source of funding for Black-led not-for-profit organizations, ensuring that they have the means to address their priorities. The recipients of this first call for proposals will help in our fight against anti-Black racism and in improving the social and economic outcomes of Black communities across the country.”
Canada’s commitment to diversity and inclusion has been a cornerstone of its success and prosperity. Recognizing the significant contributions of Black Canadians, the Government of Canada is taking decisive action to dismantle longstanding barriers to social and economic inclusion.
About the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund
The Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund, established by the Government of Canada, is dedicated to supporting Black-led, Black-focused, and Black-serving organizations across the country. The Fund aims to create sustainable funding solutions that empower Black communities and promote equity and inclusion nationwide.