Anti-Racism Act requires review of Ontario's anti-racism strategy
The Ontario government has begun consulting the public as it launches a review of its anti-racism strategy, the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism announced.
The Anti-Racism Strategic Plan sets out the province’s initiatives to eliminate systemic racism and advance racial equity and targeted and population-based strategies to measure its effectiveness.
Under the Anti-Racism Act, the provincial government must review the plan at least every five years. As part of the review, it should seek feedback from the public concerning the plan and consult with community organizations, individuals, other levels of government, and stakeholders.
The Anti-Racism Directorate (ARD) leads the review through online consultation and community engagements. ARD is the leading government agency tasked with identifying, addressing, and preventing systemic racism in government policy, legislation, programs, and services.
“Through this consultation and review we will continue to identify and deliver initiatives that help remove barriers and promote economic inclusion, so all children, youth and families in Ontario are able to reach their full potential,” Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism Parm Gill.
The ministry said it would use public feedback to improve the government’s existing public education and awareness programs, community collaboration and anti-racism initiatives, such as the Anti-Black Racism Strategy and the Public Service Anti-Racism Policy.
“As our economy continues to grow stronger, our government is committed to ensuring that all Ontarians can benefit from equal access to opportunity, and I look forward to hearing from the public on ways we can empower communities and advance racial equity in this province,” Gill said.
The ARD will receive feedback until May 4.
