Calls Grow in Canada for National Inquiry into Legacy of Slavery and Anti-Black Racism

Calls Grow in Canada for National Inquiry into Legacy of Slavery and Anti-Black Racism

A Canadian organisation has renewed calls for the creation of an independent national commission to examine the legacy of slavery and systemic racism affecting Black Canadians, reopening debate over one of the country’s most sensitive historical and human rights issues.

The Black Class Action Secretariat has urged the federal government to launch broad consultations with Black communities, provincial and territorial governments, and Indigenous representatives as a step toward establishing a national body to document the history of slavery, systemic discrimination and its continuing impacts.

The proposed commission would create a permanent historical record, collect testimonies from affected communities and provide recommendations to Parliament on addressing structural inequalities in areas including employment, education, healthcare, criminal justice and representation in public institutions.

The call comes as Canada marks Emancipation Day on August 1, commemorating the 1834 abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Rights groups argue that commemorating the date alone is insufficient without a comprehensive national review and concrete institutional reforms.

Statistics Canada data shows that the Black population in Canada exceeds 1.5 million people, representing nearly four percent of the country’s population. However, official reports and human rights organisations continue to highlight gaps in income, employment opportunities and representation compared with the broader population.

The United Nations has also urged Canada to recognise systemic racism, improve data collection and involve affected communities in shaping public policies, stressing that addressing the historical legacy of slavery is essential for achieving equality and justice.

While the Canadian government says it continues implementing its 2024–2028 Anti-Racism Strategy, advocates argue that an independent national inquiry remains necessary to understand the roots of current inequalities and develop a roadmap for reform, equity and reconciliation.