New Brunswick has taken a significant step toward building a more inclusive and equitable society with the establishment of a dedicated anti-racism office, announced on January 16, 2026. The initiative forms part of the provincial government’s formal response to the Commissioner on Systemic Racism’s final report, which outlined widespread structural barriers affecting racialized and Indigenous communities.

The new office will operate under the Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour, placing equity and inclusion directly within the province’s workforce and education framework.

Why the Anti-Racism Office Was Created

The commissioner’s report identified 86 recommendations aimed at dismantling systemic racism across public institutions in New Brunswick. These recommendations addressed issues in areas such as employment, education, public services, and community engagement.

As of early 2026:

• 59% of recommendations are already completed or underway
• An additional 19% are scheduled to be initiated

The remaining recommendations will be phased in over time, recognizing that dismantling systemic racism requires sustained, long-term effort.

Role and Responsibilities of the New Office

The anti-racism office will act as a central coordinating body, responsible for:

• Monitoring implementation of recommendations
• Advising government departments on equity-focused policy changes
• Partnering with community organizations and affected groups
• Publishing progress updates through a new public-facing website

New Brunswick is now the fifth jurisdiction in Canada to establish a formal anti-racism office, reflecting a growing national emphasis on accountability and transparency.

Why This Matters for Immigrants and Newcomers

Systemic racism directly affects newcomer integration, access to employment, and long-term settlement success. By addressing discriminatory structures, New Brunswick aims to create safer and more welcoming pathways for immigrants, international students, and temporary foreign workers.

These reforms also strengthen the province’s reputation as a destination where diversity is recognized as an asset, particularly at a time when provinces are competing globally for skilled workers.

Collaboration with Communities and Indigenous Leadership

The government has emphasized that the anti-racism office will not operate in isolation. Ongoing collaboration with organizations such as the New Brunswick Multicultural Council, cultural communities, and Indigenous leadership will be central to its success. Officials have acknowledged that further dialogue with First Nations is essential to ensure Indigenous experiences and concerns are meaningfully addressed within broader anti-racism efforts.

Transparency and Long-Term Accountability

A new online platform will track progress on each recommendation, allowing the public to follow implementation in real time. This transparency is designed to build trust and ensure that commitments translate into measurable outcomes rather than symbolic gestures.

The creation of New Brunswick’s anti-racism office marks an important step toward systemic change. While much work remains, the province has laid a foundation for accountability, collaboration, and long-term reform. For immigrants and newcomers, these efforts signal stronger institutional support and a more inclusive future.

Inclusive policy is essential for successful settlement and workforce integration. For immigration updates, policy insights, and expert analysis, visit ImmigCanada today.