Making it Easier to Do Good with Senator Ratna Omidvar
Unless you are a political enthusiast or closely watch the charitable sector, you probably haven't heard of Independent Senator Ratna Omidvar’s Bill S-222, the Effective and Accountable Charities Act. However, this somewhat technical bill to amend the Income Tax Act has the potential to meaningfully improve how Canadian charities operate, while also being important for access to justice.
The current Income Tax Act requires charities “direct and control” non-profit’s activities if they want to partner. As a result, white-led charities often have to direct and control a BIPOC non-profits’ activities with whom they wish to work. This discourages charities from working with Indigenous organizations and prevents Black-led non-profits from receiving the very benefit of the charitable dollars the sector has been promised. Charitable status applications are onerous and the rules are complicated.
If you’ve spent time in the charitable sector, you are probably hearing alarm bells. As Senator Omidvar put it, this kind of approach “is not a partnership. It is tantamount to a takeover."
Bill S-222 seeks to amend the Income Tax Act to enable charities to establish equal partnerships with non-charities, empowering the voices of BIPOC organizations, while still ensuring accountability and transparency. Having been quickly sent to third reading in the Senate, it is likely headed for the House of Commons soon. This is an important initiative we at PLEO wholeheartedly support.
Sign the Petition
In response, Imagine Canada has started a petition to support the bill which you can find here. You can also email, call, or write your MP to engage your community in this issue.
Fill in the requested information:
A valid address is required in addition to the name/signature (phone/emails are optional). Note that your name will NOT be published.
Fold the paper in 2 and
“seal” the document by stapling it or taping it.
Mail it, no postage necessary.