PETITION: Mobilization to Extend the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative

Montreal, Quebec — In a solemn and structured call to action, community leaders and advocates for inclusive development in Canada are launching a national campaign to encourage reinvestment in Black communities, at a time when several crucial support initiatives are coming to an end.

Over the past five years, nearly $900 million has been mobilized through various federal and community initiatives to support Black entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations. These efforts have been described as transformational, generating tangible impact at both local and national levels.

“What we have collectively built in recent years has not only strengthened Black communities but has also contributed to the overall economic development of Canada,” stated the organizers in a recent public declaration.

Among the key initiatives is the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative, which alone has created more than 3,000 jobs and recruited over 20,000 volunteers within community organizations.

Another major example is the Black Entrepreneurship Program, with a budget of $272 million, which has supported numerous Black-led businesses. To date, these businesses have created over 3,800 jobs across the country.

As many of these programs near their end, community stakeholders are expressing concern about the potential loss of the gains achieved. Their goal: to convince policymakers to reinvest in these programs that have proven effective.

“This is not just about funding. It’s about continuing impactful work — strengthening capacity, boosting entrepreneurship, and building a more equitable Canada for everyone,” they emphasized.

To amplify their message, several mobilization tools have been deployed:

• An open letter is currently circulating nationwide, calling on Canadians to show their support for Black communities..

• A national petition, which has already gathered over 1,000 signatures, aims to reach the 10,000 mark by the end of October.

  
  

The organizers are inviting all citizens, community leaders, and allies to sign and widely share these documents.

“It is imperative that we speak with one strong and influential voice. Our mobilization is the key to ensuring that Black communities are not forgotten but instead recognized as essential partners in Canada’s socio-economic development.”