ACBN Canada Foundation reposted this
The 2024 Fall Economic Statement delivered significant commitments to supporting Black communities nationwide, with investments aimed at Black entrepreneurs, businesses, nonprofits, charities, and tackling systemic challenges in the criminal justice system. Key highlights from the FES include: ✅ Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP): $189 million over five years to support Black entrepreneurs and business owners. ✅ Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI): $36 million in 2025-26 to empower Black-led, Black-serving, and Black-focused community organizations. ✅ New Black Justice Strategy: $77.9 million over two years to address systemic inequities and launch Canada’s Black Justice Strategy. ✅ Youth Employment and Skills Strategy Program (YESS): $9.5 million over two years to help Black youth overcome employment barriers. I’m incredibly proud of the hard work, dedication, and resilience that went into securing these transformative investments for Black communities, especially SBCCI, BEP and YESS. These achievements reflect the methodical and relentless efforts of countless individuals and organizations united by a shared purpose. A standout moment was lobby day—a powerful example of Black leaders, groups and allies coming together with unparalleled organization and advocacy. Witnessing their passionate and expert case-making to Ministers and officials was truly inspiring. The TEAM BLACK CANADA approach proved to be a resounding success and a model for future collaboration. Special thanks to those who dedicated years of effort and went into overdrive in recent months to make this happen: Tiffany Callender (FACE) Louis-Edgar Jean-François, CPA (Groupe 3737) Matthew James Martel, PMP, ICD.D (BBI) Samuel Juru (Africa Centre) Dr. Rustum Southwell O.N.S. Anthony Grey (Tropicana) Karen Soltau (Tropicana) Ryan Oneil Knight Isaac Dream Maker Olowolafe Agapi Gessesse Foundation for Black Communities (I apologize for those who I may have left out especially the THOUSANDS of Black community members that lent their voice via letters or petition.) None of this would have been possible without the incredible leaders inside government who championed these initiatives. Special thanks to Ministers Kamal Khera, Rechie Valdez, Hon. Marci Ien, Ahmed Hussen, and their dedicated staff, including Chiefs of Staff Christopher Evelyn and Helen Gao, Juan-David Gomez Martinez along with the hardworking departmental officials from Finance, ISED and ESDC. (Again, I apologize for those who I may have left out.) A huge shoutout as well to the cool and brilliant friends who always step up when it matters most, like Chad R., Emily Thorne, Bridget Howe, and the entire team at Crestview Strategy. And, of course, Kema Joseph, whose been central to so many major Black advocacy wins on the Hill! Here’s to continuing the work, celebrating the wins and setting the stage for even greater impact ahead.
Love this—celebrating the wins and staying committed to driving change for an even brighter future!
Congratulations again! It’s been an absolute pleasure working with you and the entire team.
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Congratulations! Such incredible news. Go TEAM BLACK CANADA. Thank you, for everything you do, Liban and all. (P.S. Where's your t-shirt?!)
Your advocacy made the difference. Congratulations.
Congratulations on these significant advances for Black communities in Canada! The 2024 Fall Economic Statement marks an important milestone with targeted and substantial investments. The expansion of the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP), the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) and the new Black Justice Strategy demonstrate a concrete commitment to addressing systemic inequalities. Your collaborative approach has clearly yielded results. The lobby day you mention perfectly illustrates the power of unity and organization within Black communities. It is inspiring to see the recognition you give to the many actors involved, from community leaders to ministers and officials. This synergy between civil society and government is essential for sustainable change. These achievements are the result of years of effort and perseverance. They pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future for Black Canadians. #EquityForAll #BlackLeadership #InclusiveCanada
Only one way to do it: TOGETHER
Well done to all involved
Congrats Liban Abokor and Team Black Canada!Thanks for sharing these important wins. This is welcome news indeed!
Executive Director @ Black Buildup | Leading Non-Profit Growth
21hFantastic Liban Abokor, I was very proud to see close hand the final pushes on the hill to prevent these commitments from slipping away! I am proud of my community, its leaders, and allies who tirelessly worked to make this possible and ensure that our collective and shared mission of a more inclusive Canada becomes and stays a reality.