Hon. Amina Gerba: Honourable senators, in 2026, Black History Month is celebrating 30 years of official recognition in Canada. This year’s theme, as chosen by the federal government, is “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” This theme reminds us that the history of Black communities is not just a legacy of the past but that it is also being written today, particularly through policies, entrepreneurship, innovation and wealth creation.

Honouring this intergenerational excellence requires more than just words. We need public policies that can transform potential into long-term success.

In this spirit, it is particularly important to highlight concrete initiatives that support Black entrepreneurship in Canada. The Black Entrepreneurship Program, and in particular the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund which is administered by the Federation of African Canadian Economics, or FACE, allows Black entrepreneurs to access capital, grow their businesses and contribute to the country’s economic vitality, despite persistent systemic barriers.

This morning, during the presentation of the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, we saw first-hand the outstanding work of all the organizations involved in its operation.

I would like to especially recognize the leadership of Ms. Tiffany Callender and the FACE Coalition team. Their vision, commitment and determination have been essential in translating public policies into tangible results, enabling thousands of Black entrepreneurs to succeed and thrive. Congratulations to FACE. I want to also highlight the job of innovators like Mr. Ngue.

These innovators are doing amazing things. Honouring Black history and Black excellence also means recognizing past struggles, addressing current inequalities and creating a future where every Black entrepreneur can reach their full potential.

Thank you.

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.