Date: February 10–12, 2025
Location: Ottawa, Ontario (In-person & Virtual)
Host: Canada School of Public Service (CSPS), in partnership with the Black Executives Network (BEN/REN) and the Federal Black Employee Caucus (FBEC)
About the Event
Rising 2025: Black Excellence & Canadian Policy was a landmark three-day conference that brought together government officials, community leaders, subject matter experts, and advocates from across Canada to explore and shape policies affecting Black Canadians. Hosted by the Clerk of the Privy Council and organized by the Canada School of Public Service, the conference served as a powerful platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action.
With a shared commitment to fostering Black excellence, the event aimed to reinvigorate the public service’s dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion, while highlighting the critical role Black Canadians play in shaping the nation’s policy landscape.
Conference at a Glance
Day 1 — A Review of Government Progress for Black Communities in Canada
The opening day focused on taking stock of federal initiatives and policies aimed at supporting Black Canadians. Participants examined progress made to date, discussed ongoing challenges, and identified opportunities for systemic change. Key sessions explored harassment and discrimination policies, with a specific focus on Black workers in the public service.
Day 2 — Canada’s Future-Oriented Approach for Black Communities
The second day shifted focus to forward-looking strategies. Thought-provoking panels and workshops explored the impact of current health policies on Black Canadians, with deep dives into mental health, healthcare equity, and policy reforms. The Canadian Black Policy Network (CBPN) hosted an insightful panel on amplifying Black voices in Canada’s public policy decisions.
Day 3 — Collaboration & Community Building
The final day centered on fostering meaningful relationships and strengthening networks across sectors. Attendees engaged in collaborative sessions designed to turn policy discussions into tangible action, building bridges between government institutions and Black communities.
Featured Speakers & Contributors
- Dr. Andrew B. Campbell — Assistant Professor, Leadership for Racial Justice, University of Toronto
- Representatives from the Canadian Black Policy Network (CBPN)
- Leaders from the Black Executives Network (BEN/REN)
- Members of the Federal Black Employee Caucus (FBEC)
- Senior officials from the Canada School of Public Service
- Various subject matter experts and community leaders
Highlights & Impact
- Fostered cross-sector collaboration between federal policymakers, community organizations, and Black leaders.
- Amplified Black voices in policy conversations that shape healthcare, employment, and social equity in Canada.
- Sparked concrete action — the conversations and commitments from Rising 2025 contributed to new initiatives announced by the Government of Canada to better support Black employees in the public service.
- Built lasting relationships — attendees described the conference as a space where meaningful connections and partnerships were formed to carry the work forward.
Photo Gallery
Words from Participants
“Attending Rising 2025 was powerful — the conversations, the connections, and the collective commitment to change were truly inspiring.”
“What a time to amplify conversations on ensuring Black voices are at the center of Canada’s public policy decisions.” — Canadian Black Policy Network
Looking Ahead
Rising 2025 was more than a conference — it was a renewed call to action. The energy, ideas, and commitments shared over those three days continue to ripple through Canada’s public service and policy landscape. As we reflect on the progress made and the work still to be done, we remain committed to the vision of a Canada where Black excellence is not only celebrated but embedded in the fabric of our nation’s decision-making.
Thank you to everyone who attended, spoke, and contributed to making Rising 2025 an unforgettable experience.