Lessons learned from the UN Permanent Forum 2024

UN International Decade for People of African Descent was indeed a crucial event, addressing long-standing challenges and barriers faced by individuals of African descent globally. The recommendations from the forum, serve as valuable guidelines for action. As one of the official members of the Canadian delegation, I return steadfast in my commitment for actualizing change.

 Here are some actions related to each of the critical areas:

1. Social Justice and Reform:

   – Implementing anti-discrimination laws and policies that protect the rights of people of African descent.

   – Establishing independent oversight mechanisms to monitor and address cases of racial discrimination and police brutality.

   – Investing in community-based programs that promote social inclusion and empower marginalized communities.

2. Economic Growth and Sustainability:

   – Creating economic opportunities through targeted investment in entrepreneurship, job training, and skill development programs.

   – Promoting equitable access to resources such as land, credit, and markets for businesses owned by individuals of African descent.

   – Supporting sustainable development initiatives that prioritize environmental conservation and address climate change impacts on vulnerable communities.

3. Reparations:

   – Acknowledging historical injustices and implementing reparations programs that provide financial compensation, land restitution, and community development projects.

   – Establishing truth and reconciliation commissions to address past atrocities and promote healing and reconciliation.

   – Collaborating with international organizations to advocate for global reparations frameworks and initiatives.

4. Education and Culture:

   – Improving access to quality education by addressing barriers such as school segregation, discrimination, and inadequate resources.

   – Incorporating Afrocentric curriculum and diverse perspectives into educational materials to promote cultural awareness and inclusivity.

   – Investing in lifelong learning opportunities, including vocational training, adult education, and digital literacy programs.

These actions, when implemented comprehensively and collaboratively, can contribute significantly to addressing systemic inequalities, promoting sustainable development, and fostering inclusive societies for people of African descent and other marginalized communities globally.

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