Assertion by Minister Guilbeault on the International Day for People of African Descent

OTTAWA, August 31, 2025.

The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister liable for Official Languages, made the next assertion:

“Today, we mark the International Day of People of African Descent in Canada and world wide. This necessary event celebrates the achievements of individuals of African descent and calls on us to take concrete motion towards true equality.

People of African descent haven’t solely helped form our nation’s identification however have additionally made it stronger. Their accomplishments in fields akin to sports activities, entrepreneurship and within the arts and tradition have enriched our communities and bolstered our shared pleasure as Canadians.

Canada is proud to have prolonged our commitments to the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent (2015–2024) till 2028, in order that we are able to proceed to advertise fairness and empower Black communities in Canada.

Today can be a time to replicate on the systemic boundaries and inequalities that individuals of African descent proceed to face. Our authorities is dedicated to combatting racism and creating alternatives aimed on the full social and financial inclusion of Black Canadians, whereas supporting Black-owned companies and entrepreneurs to allow them to thrive and assist develop our financial system.

Canada is a mosaic. Our range is our energy, and it defines who we’re as a rustic. Empowering all communities in Canada is how we’ll construct a robust Canada.

On this International Day of People of African Descent, I encourage you to study extra about folks of African descent and their contribution to our society. Together, let’s construct a united nation that gives equal alternatives to everybody.”