Hon. Amina Gerba, pursuant to notice of May 26, 2026, moved:

That the Senate of Canada:

1.officially recognize May 25 as World Africa Day in Canada, to mark:

(a)the importance of relations between Canada and African countries;

(b)the essential contribution of African and Afro-descendant communities to Canadian society; and

(c)the shared values of solidarity, diversity, peace and international cooperation; and

2.encourage the Government of Canada and public institutions to recognize this day each year; and

That this recognition be a first step toward officially incorporating this day into the calendar of national days recognized by the Government of Canada.

She said: Honourable senators, I rise today to move a motion to recognize May 25 as World Africa Day in Canada.

This motion is simple in form but significant in scope. It calls on us to recognize the contribution of a continent that is playing an increasingly significant role in today’s world. It also calls on us to recognize the millions of Canadians of African descent who contribute to our country’s prosperity, diversity and vitality every day.

This motion comes at a particularly important time. In 2025, Canada adopted its very first Africa Strategy, signalling its commitment to building strong, long-lasting ties with a continent whose importance on the global stage is growing.

Recognizing World Africa Day today means moving from intention to action. It means giving a human face to this ambition. It asserts that the relationship between Canada and Africa is based first and foremost on the people, the communities and that ties that already unite us.

[English]

Honourable colleagues, recognizing Africa Day would be a meaningful way to reinforce that vision. It would show that Canada’s relationship with Africa is not only about diplomacy, trade and development but also people, mutual respect and building a shared future.

[Translation]

May 25 commemorates the 1963 creation of the Organisation of African Unity, now the African Union. The date symbolizes the unity, solidarity and determination of the African peoples to build their shared future.

For 63 years now, this day has been celebrated around the world to showcase the richness of African cultures, the diversity of African peoples and the remarkable contributions of African diasporas.

It is a day of special significance in Canada because Africa is not merely one of Canada’s partners. It is now an integral part of our social fabric. More than 1.4 million Canadians are from Africa or trace their roots to Africa. Through their work, their engagement and their leadership, they contribute to our society’s vitality every day. They participate in every sector: our universities, our hospitals, our businesses, our public institutions, our laboratories, our community organizations and our cultural communities. They help to drive our economy forward, enrich our democracy and strengthen the diversity that is one of Canada’s greatest assets.

Recognizing World Africa Day means fully acknowledging this contribution.

[English]

Recognizing Africa Day also means acknowledging the important role of Canadians of African origin and Afro-Canadians. It means honouring generations whose dedication, resilience and leadership have helped build a stronger Canada.

[Translation]

This recognition is also future-oriented. Africa is now one of the most dynamic parts of the world. Its population is young, its creativity is extraordinary and its influence is growing. By 2050, one-quarter of the world’s population will be African. That’s a wake-up call. Africa is not only part of our shared history; it’s also an essential part of our shared future.

Recognizing World Africa Day is also an important opportunity for education and awareness.

Every year, World Africa Day can help people learn about the history of the African continent, its great civilizations, its cultural and linguistic diversity and the remarkable contributions of African-Canadians.

All too often, Africa is still portrayed through incomplete narratives despite being the cradle of humanity and a continent with a track record of innovation, knowledge and creativity. Recognizing this day would help enhance mutual understanding and dialogue among the communities that make up Canada.

Our Parliament already recognizes a number of commemorative months and days that reflect the diversity of our society and enrich our collective memory.

The purpose of this motion is clear. It specifically calls on the Government of Canada to officially recognize May 25 as World Africa Day and to include it in the national calendar, along with other days already officially recognized. This is important because it reflects the reality of Canada today, because it highlights contributions that deserve greater recognition and because it offers a glimpse into a continent whose importance to our collective future will only grow.

Recognizing this day would be a simple but profound gesture.

[English]

But simple gestures can carry great meaning and convey recognition, respect, friendship and hope.

[Translation]

Honourable senators, by officially recognizing World Africa Day, Canada would send a clear message of openness, respect and appreciation to the African communities and communities of African descent that contribute to our country’s prosperity. It would also send a strong message to a continent with which we wish to deepen our relationship.

I therefore urge you, colleagues, to support this motion so that Canada officially recognizes May 25 as World Africa Day and includes it in its national calendar. Thank you.