BLACK HISTORY MONTH
This Black History Month, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black communities to the fabric of our society, while acknowledging the ongoing struggle for equity and justice. In Toronto and beyond, Black individuals have long been at the forefront of advocacy for social change, and their stories are a vital part of the history of homelessness and housing.
As we reflect on the legacy of Black leaders, activists, and innovators, we also recognize the disproportionate impact systemic racism has on the experiences of Black individuals in the shelter system. This month offers an opportunity to amplify Black voices, honor the resilience of Black communities, and engage in meaningful conversations about racial justice and equity.
Equally important, Black History Month is a time to focus on wellness—particularly for Black staff, clients, and community members who may face additional emotional and mental health challenges due to the compounded effects of racism and inequality. We encourage all to access wellness resources that promote mental health, self-care, and healing.
Black Emotional Mental Health Toolkits and Resources
TORONTO FOR ALL: ANTI-BLACK RACISM & MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/96a4-t4a-abr-bmh-resources.pdf
BLACK EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL HEALTH COLLECTIVE
https://beam.community/wellness-tools
Services offered: BEAM is a national training, movement building, and grant making institution that is dedicated to the healing, wellness, and liberation of Black and marginalized communities.
Black Mental Health Canada
Services offered: Advocates for culturally safe, accessible and affordable Mental Health Care to the diverse Black communities in Canada.
Caribbean African Canadian Social Services
Services offered: CAFCAN provides culturally appropriate social services that enrich the lives of the African, Caribbean and Diaspora (ACD) communities in the Greater Toronto Area.
TAIBU Community Health Centre
Services offered: TAIBU Community Health Centre is a community-driven organization, located in Malvern, serving the Greater Toronto Area’s Black-identifying communities.
bLACK HEALTH ALLIANCE
https://www.blackhealthalliance.ca/
Services offered: The Black Health Alliance is a community-led registered charity working to improve the health and well-being of Black communities in Canada.
BLACK LEGAL ACTION CENTRE
https://www.blacklegalactioncentre.ca/
Services offered: A non-profit community legal clinic that provides free legal services for low or no income Black residents of Ontario.