ABOUT US
Who We Are
Welcome to the Black Class Action Secretariat (BCAS), a non-profit organization incorporated on March 14, 2022, under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act, with a mandate to combat systemic racism and discrimination in Canada. Our journey began as a response to a monumental class action lawsuit filed in 2020, representing thousands of Black Canadians who faced employment denials and promotions throughout their careers within the federal public service of Canada.
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The BCAS was born out of the need for justice and equity in the workplace. The groundbreaking federal case not only shed light on the pervasive issue of anti-Black racism but also ignited a spark of change. As the case progressed, we witnessed Black and racialized workers from various levels of government and the private sector step forward, sharing their experiences and aspirations for a fairer future.
What initially started as a response to a federal case quickly transformed into a powerful movement. It became evident that the struggle against anti-Black racism extended beyond one sector or government level. The BCAS emerged as a beacon of hope for underrepresented workers, particularly Black individuals who have long faced the challenges of discrimination.
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Since the inception of the federal action, our journey has been marked by significant milestones. We played a pivotal role in advocating for legislative changes to address biases in hiring and promotions. Additionally, we championed the cause of underrepresented groups, working tirelessly to ensure marginalized voices find their place in leadership positions.
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At BCAS, we're not just about litigation; we're about fostering lasting change. We worked with unions and community organizations to push the government to establish a mental health program dedicated to addressing racial trauma resulting from systemic discrimination.
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Our journey is far from over, and we invite you to join us in this crucial mission. Together, we can create a Canada where everyone, regardless of their racial background, can access equal opportunities and live free from discrimination. We are dedicated to upholding the rights and dignity of every Canadian, and we believe in the transformative power of collective action.
Mission Statement
The mission of the BCAS is to relentlessly combat systemic racism, particularly anti-Black racism, in both public and private sector employment across Canada. We are committed to working collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders, including unions, organizations, and government bodies, to cultivate an inclusive and equitable society. Through the facilitation of education and awareness programs, steadfast advocacy for legislative reforms, and the pursuit of legal actions, our goal is to dismantle the barriers of discrimination and ensure a society that upholds equality and justice for every individual.
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Vision Statement
Our vision at the BCAS is to see a future where systemic racism no longer taints the opportunities and experiences of Black individuals in the workplace. We envision a society where anti-Black racism is eradicated, and where every individual, regardless of their race, enjoys equal access to opportunities, fair treatment, and a just and inclusive society. Through our unwavering commitment, education, advocacy, and legal efforts, we aim to create a world where the principles of equality and justice are the foundation of every workplace and community, fostering a better future for all.
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