A justice system that targets racialized communities does not keep us safe, is not fair, does not work and should be changed. Through measures introduced in Bill C-22, we are committed to creating a justice system that is fair, effective and keeps all Canadians safe. The measures announced through Bill C-22, along with efforts across our Government, are important steps forward in the fight to root out systemic racism, protect Canadians and ensure a more effective justice system for all.

The proposed measures from Bill C-22 include:

• Repeal mandatory minimum penalties of imprisonment (MMPs) for certain offences to address the disproportionate impact on Indigenous and Black offenders, as well as those Canadians struggling with substance use and addiction
• Allow for greater use of conditional sentencing orders (CSOs) in cases where an offender faces a term of less than 2 years of imprisonment and is determined to not pose a threat to public safety
• Require police and prosecutors to consider other measures for simple possession of drugs such as diversion to addiction treatment programs, rather than laying charges or prosecuting individuals for simple possession of an illegal drug

For too long, some of Canada's laws have disproportionately affected Indigenous peoples, Black Canadians and racialized communities. Our proposed amendments in Bill C-22 would make the justice system more fair and effective - and as a result, would help make our communities safer.

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