1 Introduction

1.1 Purpose of the Evaluation

This report presents the findings and recommendations for the Evaluation of the Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Secretariat (ARADS). The evaluation was conducted in accordance with the Treasury Board Policy on Results (2016), which requires departments to measure and evaluate performance and use the resulting information to manage and improve programs, policies and services. The evaluation was undertaken by Justice Canada’s Evaluation Branch as per the 2021-22 to 2024-25 Departmental Integrated Audit and Evaluation Plan.

1.2 Evaluation Scope

The evaluation covers a period of five fiscal years (FY) from 2020-21 to 2024-25. This was the first evaluation of ARADS. The evaluation’s primary focus was on assessing ARADS’ design and delivery (including its approach to monitoring and measuring results and the consistency of design and delivery with best practices). It also examined ARADS’ roles and responsibilities and the ongoing relevance of ARADS. The extent to which the implementation of ARADS’ activities has contributed to Justice Canada’s response to anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) priorities, as well as in success towards carrying out its mandate was also assessed, including the ongoing relevance of ARADS in the context of alignment with government and department priorities and the ongoing need within Justice.

Given the focus of the ARADS evaluation, Gender-based Analysis Plus (GBA Plus) was integrated at the indicator level across the various evaluation questions to support improved outcomes for diverse populations. GBA Plus is described as an analytical tool to support the development of responsive and inclusive policies, programs and other initiatives.

The scope of the evaluation was determined based on a review of available information and informed by consultations with partners regarding issues and questions of interest. The work of the evaluation was guided by an Evaluation Working Group (EWG), consisting of key representatives from ARADS.