Launching the Advisory Council on Rights, Equality, and Inclusion
Canada’s new government is strengthening social cohesion and standing firm against racism and hate in all its forms.
Today, the Government of Canada announced the creation of the Advisory Council on Rights, Equality, and Inclusion.
Bringing together prominent Canadians from academia, civil society, and community leadership, the Council will help deepen social cohesion, strengthen our shared identity, and confront antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of hatred and racism.
At a time when the world is increasingly divided, this moment calls for renewed commitment to the bonds that hold our society together.
What the Council Will Do
Established under the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, the Advisory Council will provide advice to the Minister and help advance a vision of Canada grounded in equality, dignity, and shared values.
Its key responsibilities will include:
Consulting and partnering with communities across Canada to build bridges and combat racism and hate.
Bringing together initiatives and civil society organizations working in social cohesion to improve coordination and reduce duplication.
Creating a national network of trusted leaders — including youth, Indigenous partners, academics, and community organizations — to inform and guide its work.
Providing reports, studies, and detailed policy advice.
Promoting a common narrative that fosters belonging, trust, and understanding.
Working with Indigenous communities in support of these goals.
The Council builds on the work of the Offices of the Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism and the Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia, moving toward a broader and more holistic approach.
Why This Matters
As Canada grows more diverse, fostering civic engagement, belonging, and shared identity is more important than ever.
We are unwavering in confronting antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of racism and hate. Protecting rights and promoting equality are not abstract ideals — they are foundational to who we are as Canadians.
The Advisory Council on Rights, Equality, and Inclusion represents an opportunity to articulate a more inclusive Canada — one grounded in shared values and the belief that far more unites us than divides us.
The Big Picture
A strong Canada depends on strong communities.
By uniting leaders and communities from coast to coast to coast, we are strengthening trust, advancing equality, and reinforcing the principles that define our country.
That’s how we Build Canada Strong.
