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Minister Hussen participates in the first session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent

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GATINEAU, QC /CNW/ – The Government of Canada is committed to building a more equitable and inclusive country that recognizes the contributions of all.

On December 5, 2022, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, participated virtually in the first session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. This year’s session focused on strategies to combat systemic racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.

Minister Hussen delivered Canada’s introductory statement highlighting how the UN Decade has served as a catalyst for lasting initiatives that will ensure an ongoing focus on the well-being of Black Canadians and communities across Canada. The Minister shared that the Government of Canada has officially recognised the United Nation’s International Decade for People of African Descent in Canada and reaffirms its commitment to tackling anti-Black racism and discrimination in all its forms, and continuing our work to eliminate systemic barriers in our society.

Recognizing that a decade will not be enough, Canada welcomes and supports the Permanent Forum for People of African Descent as an opportunity to build on the spirit of the Decade and the principles of justice, recognition and development to better guide initiatives that support Black communities in Canada and around the world.

Quotes

“Diversity is a fact, but inclusion is a choice. In keeping with the International Decade for People of African Descent and its principles, the Government of Canada is committed to addressing the underlying social and economic inequities experienced by people of African descent, further demonstrated through its support of the Permanent Forum for People of African Descent. We will continue to build on our progress toward a more safe, inclusive, and equitable Canada where no one is left behind.”

– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion
 

Quick Facts

  • In August 2021, the General Assembly adopted resolution 75/314, which operationalized the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent as “a consultative mechanism for people of African descent and other relevant stakeholders” and “as a platform for improving the safety and quality of life and livelihoods of people of African descent.”
  • The Permanent Forum operates as an advisory body to the Human Rights Council, in line with the programme of activities for the implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent and in coordination with existing UN mechanisms promoting action to combat racism against people of African descent.
  • As Minister of Diversity and Inclusion, Minister Hussen’s mandate includes working with colleagues  across government to continue building on the spirit of the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, by developing policies and projects that tackle discrimination and unconscious bias in public and private institutions, including anti-Black racism.
  • In January 2018, the Prime Minister announced that Canada officially recognized the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent (UNDPAD). In recognition of the UNDPAD, the Government of Canada created the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI). Since 2019, over $175 million has been dedicated to the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative to celebrate, share knowledge and build capacity in Canada’s vibrant Black Canadian communities.   

Associated Links

Recognizing the International Decade for People of African Descent
United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent: recognition, justice and development
About the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative
Government of Canada highlights projects that will help reduce barriers to employment for Black Canadians
Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat
Building a Foundation for Change: Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy 2019-2022
1st Session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent

SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada

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Arizona’s Tallest Apartment Tower Set to Rise: A New Era of Skyline Splendor

Soaring above the rest, Arizona’s tallest apartment tower is set to redefine the skyline, with construction starting in 2025. Get ready to be amazed! #Arizona #SkyscraperDreams

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"Architectural rendering of Arizona's tallest apartment tower, showcasing two sleek towers rising above the skyline."
Stretching 541 feet skyward, the Astra will be the tallest tower in Arizona -KTAR. (Aspirant Development Rendering)


Get ready, Arizona! The skyline is about to reach new heights with the announcement of the state’s tallest apartment tower. Aspirant Development, in collaboration with The Empire Group of Cos, has unveiled exquisite architectural renderings that promise to reshape the urban landscape in an awe-inspiring way. With plans for construction set to commence in 2025, this monumental project will bring soaring aspirations to life and offer residents, office workers, and retailers an exceptional experience like never before.

Stunning Heights and Design:
This ambitious venture encompasses a pair of towers that will dominate Arizona’s skyline. The first tower, soaring an astonishing 541 feet over 44 floors, has gained approval to surpass the former record-holder, the Chase Tower, which reached a modest 483 feet. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to touch the sky, this grand residential tower will provide the answer.

Aspiring even higher, the second tower will span 34 floors and reach an impressive height of 424 feet. Designed with contemporary elegance and visionary aesthetics, both towers exemplify the innovative architectural approach that will make them iconic symbols for the state.

Construction Timeline and Exciting Leasing Opportunities:
Great news for aspiring residents and businesses eager to be part of this groundbreaking project: construction is slated to begin in either the first or second quarter of 2025. With the completion of construction projected for late 2027, residents will be able to experience luxurious living in these remarkable towers. Office and retail space will also become available in mid-2026, creating enticing prospects for businesses looking to thrive in this vibrant location.

Urban Advancement and Collaboration:
Last summer, Aspirant Development received the crucial Phoenix City Council approval for a Government Property Lease Excise Tax agreement (GPLET). This agreement allows Aspirant to convey the property’s title to the city upon receiving a certificate of occupancy. Subsequently, the city will lease the property back to the developer for up to eight years, while providing beneficial tax abatement for the project. This collaboration between the private and public sectors highlights a shared commitment to urban development and paves the way for future partnerships that can shape the landscape of Arizona.

A Bright Future for Arizona:
With Arizona’s tallest apartment tower on the horizon, the state welcomes an exciting era of progress, innovation, and elevated living experiences. The sheer magnitude of these structures not only contributes to the elegance of the skyline but also signifies Arizona’s economic growth and attraction as a premier destination.

Arizona is poised to leave an indelible mark on the architectural landscape with its tallest apartment tower. The stunning design and strategic collaboration of Aspirant Development and The Empire Group of Cos create an unprecedented opportunity for individuals and businesses to embrace the extraordinary. As construction begins, anticipation builds, and dreams are brought to life, Arizona’s skyline promises to inspire awe, making it a destination that captures the imagination of all who lay their eyes upon it.

Take a look at the new high-rise that will dominate the Valley, as covered in the KTAR article.

https://ktar.com/story/5570002/arizonas-tallest-apartment-tower-finally-on-track-to-start-construction/

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism/

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Putting Jobs First: California High-Speed Rail Crosses 13,000 Construction Jobs Milestone

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California High-Speed Rail construction site with workers in hardhats.
Artistic rendering of a CAHSR high-speed train running in the Central Valley. California High-Speed Rail.

In a significant milestone for the nation’s first high-speed rail project, the California High-Speed Rail Authority (Authority) announced that it has successfully created over 13,000 construction jobs since 2015. This accomplishment not only signifies progress for the ambitious high-speed rail system but also highlights the positive impact it has had on the local Californian workforce.

California High-Speed Rail Crosses 13,000 Construction Jobs Milestone

Central Valley Takes the Lead:
With over 70 percent of these jobs going to residents of California’s Central Valley, the project has played a vital role in providing employment opportunities for individuals in the region. It is worth acknowledging the efforts of nearly 1,400 workers dispatched each day to various high-speed rail construction sites. These jobs have injected economic vitality and growth into communities across the Central Valley.

Regional Breakdown:

  1. Fresno County: 4,222 jobs
  2. Kern County: 2,538 jobs
  3. Tulare County: 1,282 jobs
  4. Madera County: 580 jobs
  5. Kings County: 462 jobs
  6. Merced County: 189 jobs
  7. Remaining California Counties: 3,387 jobs
  8. Out-of-State: 369 jobs

A Decade of Strong Partnerships:
The Authority has had a longstanding partnership with the California State Building Trades, which has facilitated the creation of thousands of good-paying union jobs. Notably, during the past five years alone, over 10,000 construction positions have been generated through these collaborative efforts. Moreover, a significant focus has been placed on directing employment opportunities towards individuals from disadvantaged communities, further promoting inclusivity and economic upliftment.

California Jobs First Council:
To bolster job creation even further and ensure economic prosperity for all Californians, the California Jobs First Council was established. This council aims to align economic resources, expedite job creation, and enhance opportunities throughout the state. With particular focus on the Central San Joaquin Valley, this initiative serves as an impetus for creating more jobs, rapidly, in every community.

Future Expansion and Construction Progress:
Looking ahead, the Authority is resolute in extending the current 119-mile high-speed rail network to span 171 miles, reaching from Merced to Bakersfield. The construction has already commenced on this expansion project. Presently, more than 25 dynamic construction sites are active within the Central Valley. As a testament to its commitment to environmental stewardship, the Authority has obtained full environmental clearance for 422 miles of the high-speed rail program, stretching from the Bay Area to Los Angeles County.

Stay Updated:
For the latest developments and information about the high-speed rail construction, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the official website: www.buildhsr.com. On the website, visitors can access recent videos, animations, photographs, press center resources, and the latest renderings of the project. All files are available for free use, courtesy of the California High-Speed Rail Authority.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority’s achievement of surpassing 13,000 construction jobs is undoubtedly a cause for celebration. By focusing on job creation and prioritizing the local workforce, this landmark project is making a positive difference in the lives of Californians, particularly those in the Central Valley. With continued progress and future expansions, the California High-Speed Rail project not only brings efficient transportation but also provides a substantial economic boost that benefits communities and individuals alike.

https://hsr.ca.gov/2024/03/19/putting-jobs-first-california-high-speed-rail-crosses-13000-construction-jobs-milestone/

Source: California High-Speed Rail Authority

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13k+ jobs created! 🚄 California High-Speed Rail breaking records and boosting the economy! jobs infrastructure https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism/

♬ original sound – STMDailyNews – STMDailyNews

What is California High-Speed Rail?

The California High-Speed Rail (CAHSR) is a state-funded project led by the California High-Speed Rail Authority. Currently under construction, Phase 1 is planned to cover 494 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles, passing through the Central Valley. There are plans for Phase 2, which would extend the system to Sacramento and San Diego, totaling 776 miles. Authorized by a 2008 ballot, this ambitious project aims to connect major urban areas, significantly reducing travel times. The goal for Phase 1 is to achieve a travel time of 2 hours and 40 minutes between San Francisco and Los Angeles, a vast improvement from the existing Amtrak service, which takes around nine hours.

Construction of Phase 1 began in the Central Valley back in 2015. The project is being built in sections due to limited funding. The state aims to complete a 171-mile (275 km) long Initial Operating Segment (IOS) connecting Merced and Bakersfield by 2024. The IOS is expected to begin its revenue service as a self-contained high-speed rail system between 2030-2033, at an estimated cost of $28–35 billion. CAHSR trains running along this section would be the fastest in the Americas, with a top speed of 220 mph (350 km/h).

Between January 2015 and December 2023, a whopping amount of $11.2 billion was spent on the IOS project, which includes 119 miles (192 km) currently under construction, alongside upgrades to the existing rail lines in the San Francisco Bay Area and Greater Los Angeles. The plan is that Phase 1 will share tracks with conventional passenger trains. However, the Authority has not yet secured funding to connect the Central Valley section with either the Bay Area or Los Angeles, which involves crossing several major mountain passes. As of 2024, it is estimated that Phase 1 will cost a total of $106.2 billion.n.

Supporters of the California High-Speed Rail project emphasize the potential benefits it offers, including the reduction of air traffic and highway congestion, decreased pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and the promotion of economic growth by connecting inland regions to coastal cities. However, opponents argue that the project is too expensive and advocate for directing funds to other transportation or infrastructure initiatives. The choice of route and the decision to initiate construction in the Central Valley, rather than more densely populated areas, have been points of contention. The project has encountered notable challenges such as delays and cost overruns due to management issues, legal disputes, and a lack of complete funding commitment.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_High-Speed_Rail#

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism/

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Riding the Rails to a Sustainable Future: The Rise of High-Speed Rail in the U.S.

High-speed rail in the U.S. offers a sustainable, faster, and comfortable alternative to flying and driving, significantly reducing carbon emissions.

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"High-speed rail in the U.S. offers a sustainable, faster, and comfortable alternative to flying and driving, significantly reducing carbon emissions."
Acela and Metro-North commuter trains share the same tracks through Connecticut.

In a world where environmental sustainability and efficient transportation are becoming increasingly critical, the United States is making strides towards a faster and greener future with the expansion of high-speed rail networks. While the U.S. may have lagged behind other countries in this area, promising developments such as the Brightline West project in the Southwest, the Texas line connecting major cities, and the Northwest corridor linking bustling urban centers are paving the way for a new era of travel.

High-speed rail presents a compelling alternative to traditional modes of transportation. With trains reaching speeds of up to 200 mph, these systems offer a comfortable, cost-effective, and time-efficient way to travel. Compared to flying, high-speed rail eliminates the hassles of airport security checks and long wait times, while surpassing the speed of driving without the stress of being behind the wheel. Passengers can unwind, be productive, or simply enjoy the journey, making it a holistic travel experience.

Beyond the convenience and comfort it offers, high-speed rail holds immense promise in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. The potential environmental impact of projects like the Brightline West is staggering, with estimates suggesting that millions of cars could be taken off the road, significantly curbing carbon pollution. Given the alarming statistics on the environmental cost of traditional transportation, transitioning to high-speed rail is a crucial step towards mitigating the harmful effects of climate change.

The urgency of addressing climate change cannot be overstated. The emissions released from burning fossil fuels are driving global warming at an alarming rate, leading to catastrophic consequences such as extreme weather events and environmental degradation. By opting for public transportation like high-speed rail, individuals can contribute to cooling down the planet and reducing their carbon footprint. Additionally, embracing sustainable modes of travel such as walking and biking not only promotes environmental conservation but also enhances personal health and well-being.

As the U.S. accelerates its efforts to embrace high-speed rail and other eco-friendly transportation options, we are moving closer to a future where sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand. By choosing to ride the rails, we are not only embarking on exciting journeys but also taking meaningful steps towards a cleaner, greener planet for generations to come.

If you are interested about high speed rail in America, check out these articles:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acela

https://www.hsr.ca.gov/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brightline

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-speed_rail_in_the_United_States

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism/

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