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CIPAA

Canadian Institute for People of Afrikan Ancestry

Government of Canada invests $7.25 million to establish the National Institute for People of African Descent

The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, announced that a total of $7.25 million would be provided over three years to Caribbean African Canadian Social Services (CAFCAN) to establish the first-ever National Institute for People of African Descent.

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Request for Proposals

Advancing Equity and Justice for Black Communities in Canada

CAFCAN, with support from the Government of Canada, is leading the development of the Canadian Institute for People of Afrikan Ancestry (CIPAA). We are inviting proposals from qualified individuals, collectives, and organizations to support community engagement, research, and policy development that will help shape a more just and equitable future for Black communities across Canada.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Canadian Institute for People of Afrikan Ancestry (CIPAA)

The Canadian Institute for People of Afrikan Ancestry (CIPAA) is a national organization established to address systemic barriers faced by Black Canadians. It aims to produce effective and culturally appropriate policies to eradicate racism and improve the social determinants of health for Afrikan-Canadians. CIPAA is governed by an elder council known as the Ushauri and utilizes a team of knowledgeable professionals to develop strategies for community advancement.

CIPAA’s primary objectives include:

  • Informing and influencing policy and program development at all levels of government from a Black-centric perspective.
  • Conducting applied research, knowledge development, information sharing, stakeholder engagement, and network-building.
  • Improving social and economic outcomes for Black Canadians and their communities.

In August 2024, the Government of Canada announced an investment of $7.25 million over three years to establish the National Institute for People of Afrikan Ancestry. This funding was provided to Caribbean Afrikan Canadian Social Services (CAFCAN) to lead the foundational phase of the institute. 

Caribbean Afrikan Canadian Social Services (CAFCAN) has been selected as the organizational lead for CIPAA’s feasibility study and foundational phase. CAFCAN is responsible for establishing and operationalizing the institute in collaboration with diverse Black communities across Canada. 

CIPAA aims to engage Black Canadian communities and leaders by:

  • Convening and engaging stakeholders, communities, organizations, and leaders to support the development of policies and programs at all levels of government.
  • Ensuring that the institute is proactive and responsive to key priorities such as education, health and well-being, and justice.

While specific avenues for involvement may evolve as CIPAA develops, individuals and organizations interested in supporting or collaborating with the institute are encouraged to connect with (CAFCAN) for more information and opportunities to contribute. Inquires can be directed to CIPAA@cafcan.org

CIPAA envisions being a proactive, community-led endeavor that produces effective and culturally responsive policies to remove disparities and inequities faced by Canadians of Afrikan Ancestry. The institute aims to be financially sustainable and continue its operations beyond the initial funding period, ensuring lasting impact on Black communities across Canada. 

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