Senator's Statements - Engagement With Black Communities in Western Canada
Honourable senators, I rise today to share reflections from a recent visit to Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta, where I had the honour of engaging with members of the Black community, particularly dynamic young people who are helping to shape a brighter, more inclusive future for all Canadians.
There are no senators of African descent from Western Canada, so I was excited to connect with these communities to bring their voice back to Ottawa. My African Canadian Senate Group colleague Senator Senior and I met with Alberta MLAs David Shepherd, Rhiannon Hoyle and Sharif Haji to discuss key priorities for Black Albertans. Our conversation focused on economic issues, representation in politics and the potential of Canada’s Black Justice Strategy to address systemic barriers and improve outcomes for Black communities.
Later that day, Senator Simons, Senator Senior and I went to visit the Africa Centre, the largest pan-African non-profit in Western Canada. Since 2006, this centre has served as a vital hub for Albertans of African descent, delivering culturally appropriate programs that foster access, inclusion and full participation in society. Its work, grounded in integrity, cultural pride and collective empowerment, is truly commendable.
At the Africa Centre, we also had the pleasure of meeting with members of the newly formed Black Future Lawyers chapter at the University of Alberta and the Black Student Alliance. These driven young leaders are forging pathways in legal education and careers through mentorship, academic support and community building.
The next day I had the privilege of being the keynote speaker at the national Black Child and Youth Wellbeing Conference hosted by the University of Calgary. This event brought together 120 researchers, students and community partners from across Canada and is part of a national initiative to improve the lives of Black children and youth through research policy and community engagement. It is a powerful space of learning, collaboration and vision for systemic change.
Colleagues, the passion and leadership I witnessed were deeply inspiring. These conversations reminded me that Black communities across the country are thriving and are innovative and engaged.
I encourage all of us to engage persistently with Black communities in all regions because by understanding their experiences and amplifying their voices, we can better serve all Canadians.
Thank you. Meegwetch.