OTTAWA - Current and former Black employees of Global Affairs Canada have raised serious allegations of racial discrimination and harassment within the department. Approximately 100 individuals have reportedly faced these issues, according to the Black Class Action Secretariat (BCAS), which is advocating for better working conditions for Black public service workers across Canada.

Madina Iltireh, who worked for over 20 years in the administration of foreign aid programs, shared her experiences during a news conference on Parliament Hill. Iltireh, who is Black and wears a hijab, described her excitement upon being assigned to the Canadian embassy in Kuwait in 2018. However, she claimed that discrimination began shortly after her arrival. "I was representing Canada but Canada did not represent me," she stated.

After returning to Canada, Iltireh filed a complaint against the ambassador, alleging bullying and discriminatory practices. An investigation by Global Affairs Canada confirmed that the embassy head had failed to provide a healthy work environment for her. "The place I was (for three years) was toxic, and it was suffocating," Iltireh said, emphasizing the mental and physical toll the experience took on her and her family.

Nicholas Marcus Thompson, president and CEO of the BCAS, highlighted that many complaints from employees have been dismissed internally. He accused Global Affairs Canada of punishing those who report discrimination while promoting individuals in positions of power, including those involved in the alleged misconduct. "Black and racialized women have borne the brunt of this treatment," Thompson said, calling it systemic racism and abuse of authority.

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand responded to the allegations, stating that discrimination in any form is unacceptable. She acknowledged the need for a public service that prioritizes inclusivity and diversity. Anand mentioned that she is reviewing at least one of the cases brought forward by the BCAS to address systemic issues within Global Affairs Canada.

The BCAS is currently pursuing legal challenges related to systemic racism in the public service and is appealing a broader case that could take up to a year for a ruling. The organization has called for significant reforms, including the establishment of independent investigative bodies to handle complaints of discrimination and harassment.

In 2022, Global Affairs Canada initiated the Future of Diplomacy initiative, aimed at creating a healthier work culture and more merit-based promotions. However, Thompson criticized these efforts as insufficient, stating that they do not adequately address the needs of Black employees. "We're not seeing deep-rooted reforms, simply Band-Aid solutions that pass over quickly with change of management," he said.

The BCAS continues to advocate for stronger anti-discrimination legislation and independent panels to investigate claims of discrimination within the public service. Thompson emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "We expect action, and we will continue exposing systemic failures across the government of Canada until it happens."