The Saint John Newcomers Centre (SJNC) strongly welcomes the Government of New Brunswick’s announcement of its plan to address racism, including the establishment of an anti-racism office within the Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour (Read: https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/news/news_release.2026.01.0011.html). As an organization working closely with newcomers, SJNC recognizes this as a vital step toward systemic change. Newcomers enrich our social, cultural, and economic fabric, yet their experiences with discrimination are often overlooked. We are committed to amplifying their voices and advocating for inclusive policies.
SJNC has long championed anti-racism through initiatives like our Racialized 506 podcast series, which educates newcomers on resources to combat racism and ensures lived experiences inform community dialogue. We also deliver Cultural Competency Training for employers, host conversations on reconciliation, and organize events like CultureFest to foster understanding. These efforts create safer spaces for all newcomers in Saint John, regardless of immigration status.
It is our hope that the new office will ignite multi-sector collaboration to dismantle barriers and build a truly equitable future. SJNC stands ready as a committed partner, bringing proven strategies that transform communities.
Our Racialized 506 conversations have sparked meaningful local equity actions, while our training programs have empowered dozens of employers to cultivate diverse, thriving teams. These grassroots victories demonstrate the transformative power of education, dialogue, and advocacy working hand-in-hand with visionary government leadership.
“This is an important step toward creating a province where newcomers feel respected, supported, and able to fully participate in community life,” said Mohamed Bagha, Managing Director of the Saint John Newcomers Centre. “Real progress will come from listening to lived experiences and working together to turn commitments into meaningful change.”
We applaud the government’s progress on the commissioner’s recommendations and look forward to transparency through the new website. SJNC will continue advocating for newcomers, particularly racialized and equity-deserving groups, ensuring their contributions are valued and protected. Together with partners like the New Brunswick Multicultural Council, we can build a province where every resident thrives free from racism’s shadow.
