BCAS Calls for Dedicated Representation of Black Canadians on New Federal Equity Advisory Council

Ottawa, February 5, 2026 — The Black Class Action Secretariat (BCAS) is disappointed by the federal government’s decision to eliminate the stand-alone roles addressing Islamophobia and Antisemitism and to replace them with a single National Advisory Council on Rights, Equity and Inclusion.

This decision brings into focus an issue that has existed for years. While the federal government created dedicated roles to address Islamophobia and Antisemitism, it has never appointed a comparable federal envoy or special representative to address anti-Black racism, despite repeated calls from Black communities and civil society organizations.

BCAS has long called for the appointment of a dedicated federal envoy to combat anti-Black racism. Black Canadians continue to face systemic anti-Black racism and increasing anti-Black hate across public institutions, including employment, education, policing, and access to justice.

As the government establishes the new advisory council, BCAS calls on it to ensure that Black Canadians are represented, with designated officials who have clear responsibility for addressing anti-Black racism. A broad equity mandate will not address the specific barriers Black communities continue to face.

BCAS also urges the government to ensure that different forms of hate and discrimination are addressed directly, rather than treated as interchangeable.

BCAS will continue to call for federal leadership and accountability in addressing systemic anti-Black racism in Canada.