On October 8, 2026, Black Legal Action Centre (BLAC) participated in a civil society roundtable in Toronto with Dr. Ashwini K.P., United Nations Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, during her official visit to Canada.The gathering brought together community organizations and advocates working across issues including anti-Black racism, Indigenous rights, Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian racism, immigration, employment equity, housing, policing and access to justice.
One reflection shared during the discussion captured the moment particularly well: it was both exciting and disheartening.Exciting, because there was a remarkable sense of solidarity among organizations advocating for different communities, yet raising many of the same concerns.Disheartening, because those concerns reflect systemic inequalities that have persisted despite years of advocacy, legal protections and government commitments.
BLAC used the opportunity to emphasize the need to move beyond recognition and toward meaningful implementation and accountability. Among our recommendations was the establishment of a permanent federal–provincial Anti-Black Racism Task Force, with meaningful Black community leadership, to strengthen coordination, monitor progress and ensure measurable outcomes.
The discussion was a reminder that while our communities may experience racism differently, our calls for justice, accountability and meaningful change are deeply connected.
Solidarity matters. But solidarity must also lead to action.
We thank the Special Rapporteur, Amnesty International Canada for hosting the roundtable, and the many organizations and advocates who contributed their perspectives.
