July 19, 2023
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) in Canada is calling on the Canadian federal, provincial, and municipal governments to end what we see as systemic racism in Canada's refugee support systems. Canada is renowned for its commitment to welcoming refugees and supporting those fleeing conflict and persecution. However, recent events have shed light on a concerning disparity in the level of support offered to refugees from different regions.
Specifically, a stark contrast emerges when comparing the overwhelming assistance extended to refugees from Syria and Ukraine with the inadequate support provided to refugees from Africa, the Caribbean, and other predominantly Black countries. CBTU Canada is NOT suggesting that the support given to the Syrian and Ukrainian refugees was inappropriate. However, we would argue that the disparity, coupled with the lack of long-term funding, exposes a clear case of systemic racism within the Canadian government's approach to refugee support.
While refugees arriving from Syria and Ukraine in Canada were met with an outpouring of support, the same can not be said about refugees from countries in Africa, the Caribbean, and other predominantly Black countries. Black and other racialized people are facing disheartening challenges that are inhumane. Reports indicate that when shelters reached capacity, refugees from these regions had no choice but to sleep on the sidewalks, exposed to the elements, and without access to essential services. This shocking contrast highlights the alarming extent to which the government's funding conveniently "ran out" in regards to the refugees from predominantly Black countries. The Canadian government's failure to adequately support refugees from African, Caribbean, and other predominantly Black countries indicates systemic racism. The differential treatment, reflected in the lack of funding and resources, perpetuates inequality and reinforces harmful stereotypes. It is imperative to recognize that this systemic discrimination extends beyond individual actions and policies, reaching the system's very structure designed to support refugees.
Canada must rectify this injustice and ensure that all refugees, regardless of origin or ethnicity, receive equity in support and opportunities. The government must commit to long-term funding that specifically addresses the unique needs of refugees from African, Caribbean, and other predominantly Black countries. This funding should be distinct from that allocated to refugees from different regions, considering the specific challenges these individuals face due to systemic racism. Beyond financial support, the federal government must provide long-term Canadian resettlement and employment initiatives tailored to refugees from African, Caribbean, and other predominantly Black countries. These initiatives should foster integration, provide language training, and support skills development, ensuring that refugees have the tools to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to Canadian society.
Furthermore, the Canadian government needs to reevaluate its allocation of public funds. Rather than spending vast amounts on foreign military interventions, reallocating resources towards supporting and resettling refugees from African, Caribbean, and other predominantly Black countries is a just and morally responsible choice. By prioritizing humanitarian efforts, Canada can demonstrate its commitment to upholding human rights, equity, and justice.
Conclusion:
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) in Canada calls on Canada's federal government to address the systemic racism entrenched in the Canadian government's treatment of refugees from African, Caribbean, and other predominantly Black countries with immediate and appropriate action. All levels of government must play their role by acknowledging and rectifying this disparity by providing long-term funding, distinct from other refugee support initiatives, safe housing, and basic human rights for the people who have already faced far too much violence and harm. Additionally, Canadian resettlement and employment programs must be tailored to the unique needs of refugees from these regions, fostering their successful integration into society. Lastly, redirecting public funds from foreign military interventions to support and resettlement efforts will be a concrete step towards a more equitable and compassionate Canada. Only through these concerted efforts can Canada fulfill its moral obligation of providing equitable support and opportunities to all refugees who seek sanctuary within its borders.
Signed
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) Canada Executive Board
August 31, 2026
Today, August 31, we join people around the world in recognizing the United Nations’ International Day for People of African Descent.
Today is a day to celebrate our history, resilience, achievements and contributions. But it is also a day to confront history honestly.
For the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) - Canada, recognition must be accompanied by truth, accountability and action.
Canada has a history connected to the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and the institution of slavery. That history must be acknowledged—not to assign guilt to Canadians today, but to recognize the truth of what happened and understand its continuing consequences.
An apology cannot undo the past. But it can acknowledge the truth, honour those who suffered, and help establish a foundation for meaningful reconciliation and justice.
The United Nations has made clear that the legacy of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade demands recognition, justice and action.
Nations have a responsibility to ensure the full and equal treatment, dignity and protection of people of African descent in the societies and countries they have profoundly contributed to building and developing economically. This responsibility includes strengthening laws, policies and institutions to eliminate the racial discrimination, inequality and systemic barriers that continue to affect people of African descent, including in countries where they were brought through enslavement, forced migration or other forms of coercion. Recognition of these contributions must be accompanied by concrete measures to protect human rights, advance equality and address the enduring consequences of racial injustice.
Canada should not stand outside that conversation.
On this International Day for People of African Descent, CBTU Canada renews its call:
Canada must recognize its history.
Canada must acknowledge its responsibility.
Canada must apologize.
Remembering must lead to recognition.
Recognition must lead to accountability.
And accountability must lead to action.
CBTU Canada remains committed to the campaign for recognition, justice and an official federal apology.
In solidarity
The Executive Board of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) - Canada
(Le français suit / French follows…)
August 23 is more than a date. It is a day to remember the courage, resistance and determination of those who challenged a system built on the trafficking and enslavement of Africans and their descendants.
The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition reminds us that history is not simply something to be remembered; it is something that continues to shape the societies we live in today. The legacy of slavery is reflected in the institutions, policies, inequalities and experiences that continue to affect Black communities.
Remembrance must therefore be accompanied by recognition, accountability and action. Honouring those who resisted slavery means confronting the historical realities that continue to influence the present and ensuring that future generations inherit a more just society.
This is why the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists–Canada continues to call on the Government of Canada to acknowledge its role in the trafficking and enslavement of Africans and to issue a formal federal apology. Our national apology campaign is part of a broader effort to advance recognition, accountability and reparatory justice.
On August 23rd, we remember those who endured. We honour those who resisted. And we recommit ourselves to the work of building a future grounded in justice, equality and dignity for all.
In remembrance. In recognition. In action.
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) Canada Executive Board
