Finally, although the bill identifies the need to protect against unreasonable searches and seizures, we recommend a zero tolerance for racial discrimination provision. We have seen a number of Muslim clients mistreated with Islamophobic or racist conduct by the CBSA, whose misconduct has historically gone unchecked. Recently, research conducted in March 2020 found that over 75% of CBSA officers surveyed said they witnessed a colleague discriminating against travellers based on their national or ethnic origin.
To put it in clearer terms, we are aware that in one instance, a CBSA officer cited sources in a decision that drew on well-known Islamophobes like Daniel Pipes, and in one instance, cited information that linked to hateful accusations levelled against NCCM and other prominent Canadian Muslim organizations.
To the best of our knowledge, the CBSA has never publicly apologized for relying on such nonsense. As such, considering the history of the CBSA and the clear presence of Islamophobic prejudice in its work culture, a zero tolerance for hate clause should be instituted.
Thank you.
I note in closing that we will expand significantly on the submissions before you today in a follow-up brief to be submitted. Subject to your questions, that concludes our submissions.