CIMM – Anti-Racism – February 28, 2024

Key Messages

IRCC is committed to creating a culture of anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion.
As part of the ongoing anti-racism work, an Anti-Racism Task Force was created in 2020, followed by an internal advisory board, the development of anti-racism sector commitments, and programs to support the career development of underrepresented groups.
IRCC continues to examine potential sources of bias in policy and program design, service delivery, people management practices, and innovative ways to balance risk in an operational context.
IRCC’s anti-racism Strategy 2.0 includes performance indicators to better hold the Department accountable and track progress on commitments.
An employment systems review was conducted to address systemic barriers and fulfill obligations under the Employment Equity Act. Since fall 2023, an Equity Branch was established; mandated for:
- Serving as an equity-focused centre of expertise, offering oversight and support to enhance inclusion, consistency, and fairness across people management, policy development & program design, and service delivery.
- Guiding and assessing performance on anti-racism, accessibility, GBA+, reconciliation, and equity initiatives.
- Providing an Ombuds office to help resolve employee complaints.

If pressed:

The findings of an independent review on IRCC’s progress on anti-racism initiatives was published. The results were informed by data collected from multiple sources, and guide IRCC in making lasting change in addressing systemic racism. They were published in August 2023.

If pressed on reports of racism in foreign postings:

Regardless of where an employee is based, they’re held to the same standards with respect to values and ethics, and have access to tools and resources to fight racism. However, IRCC recognizes that there are unique challenges for staff in overseas offices, as they face unique conditions, and feel isolated from support structures at IRCC headquarters.
We recognize the courage of participants who shared their personal experience. These lived experiences are not to be trivialized or dismissed, and we will remain steadfast in our commitment to dismantling barriers and rebuilding equity in their place.