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TORONTO ACTION PLAN TO CONFRONT ANTI-BLACK RACISM
EX2911 Attachment A
MAYOR JOHN TORY Anti-Black racism exists in Toronto
I believe this is an important statement forthe Mayor of Toronto to make as we strive for inclusion and to live by our values as themost diverse city in the world
Eradicating anti-Black racism ndash althoughdifficult ndash must be our goal in Toronto because it stands as an obstacle to building atruly fair and just city
I understand that members of our cityrsquosBlack communities are tired of being askedto recount their own experiences of racismand the experiences of their ancestors andchildren
We know these experiences are real and we know we must take action And so
we embarked on an initiative to engageTorontorsquos Black communities in developing a Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism five years of initiatives to addresssystemic barriers that exist across the city
As part of this process we took themany reports on racism that have beenwritten over the past 41 years and puttheir recommendations in front of peoplefor discussion through 41 CommunityConversations held by the City in partnershipwith community organizations We wanted to know which actions Torontorsquos Black communities felt would make the greatestdifference in their lives
These conversations drew more than 800 participants who shared their experiencestheir priorities and their concerns
I attended four of those discussions myself Ilistened to community members in Rexdale Jane and Finch Scarborough and Weston Mt Dennis I listened to fathers and mothers small business owners on Eglinton West and I went to Black CAP and listened to members of the queer and trans community
I listened to people describe what it feels liketo have someone follow you around a store
I heard very thoughtful comments about thepresence of uniformed police in schools andwhether this program is really meeting itsgoals
I heard parents and students talk aboutthe lack of Black teachers I heard peoplediscuss the higher rates of unemploymentexperienced by young Black men in ourneighbourhoods and the dramatically higherpercentage of young Black men in the justice system
I listened and I learned
And now we have presented an Action Planwith five themes 22 recommendations and some 80 actions the City will undertake
This is a real plan and I am committed toacting on it
In fact the work has already begun
As some first steps I met with senior staffincluding Black leaders in the Toronto Public Service to begin identifying systemic barriersinside City Hall I heard a lot about theculture change that needs to happen herestarting with comprehensive training of staffto recognise understand and shift anti-Black racism thinking and practice Aided bycommunity expertise this work will help seedsystemic change that will positively impactservice planning policy development andcustomer service
We continue to invest in Black youth In October Council approved a $400000investment in Black community-led
initiatives to support Black youth leadershipdevelopment through the Black Youth Leadership Project Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism A community Leadership Panel was recruited this fall with the investments going into community in 2018
Wersquore making capital investments in two important youth development initiativesfocused on the arts ndash The Remix Project and Nia Centre for the Arts to help theseimportant skill development initiatives havestable community spaces from which to serveour young people
These complement continued youthemployment initiatives to support youth whohave been affected by the criminal justicesystem and to provide them with access togrowing sectors of opportunity
There are many more steps to be taken butwe are getting started right away and I hopeyou see this as an indication of my intentionto lead and to act
What I heard most of all in these sessions was the simple heartfelt desire on the partof adults to see better things for the nextgeneration often their own children Young people told me of their desire to have a fairchance and a life in Toronto free from racism and discrimination
Listening to this I know that our objectivemust be no less than to bring an end toacts of discrimination based on race an end to stereotyping and marginalization theintroduction of systemic changes to eradicateracism and a focus on providing the sameopportunities to all of our residents
This wonrsquot be easy or instantaneous but Ipledge to lead to work within governmentand in partnership with Torontorsquos Black communities to forge a city where our valuesand goals are matched by reality
Mayor John Tory
CONTENTS Executive Summary 1
Anti-Black Racism
Supports
amp Black Leadership
Introduction 3
Building An Effective Plan 5
Public Education to Confront 6
Terminology 7
Municipal Levers for Change 9
Purpose Vision and Principles 11
Anti-Black Racism Analysis 14
Partnership amp Accountability Circle 17
Children amp Youth Development 19
Health amp Community Services 23
Job Opportunities amp Income 29
Policing amp The Justice System 33
Community Engagement 37
Intergovernmental Cooperation 40
Next Steps 41
Summary Chart 43
Acknowledgements 51
References 53
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and studies continue to show that anti-Black racism still exists in this cityaffecting the life chances of more than200000 people of African descent who callToronto home
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descentand is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationhere in Canada
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Torontonians of African descent It is experienced as a lack ofopportunity poor health and mental health
outcomes poor education outcomeshigher rates of precarious employment andunemployment significant poverty andoverrepresentation in the criminal justicemental health and child welfare systems
To begin confronting anti-Black racism in Toronto the City of Toronto partnered with Black leaders and organizations to createand implement a four-phase process Phaseone was the development and launch ofthe Toronto For All campaign in November 2016 naming and challenging anti-Blackracism for public education Phase two wasthe review of 41 yearsrsquo worth of researchand recommendations about addressinganti-Black racism in Toronto This review created the foundation for 41 CommunityConversations in phase three to determinehow best to take meaningful action goingforward Conversations ran from January toMarch 2017 Black Torontonians reviewed a
1
EXECUTIVE SU
MM
ARY
draft action plan at a citywide workshop inMay 2017 and provided feedback In Phasefour City staff and subject matter expertsfrom across Torontorsquos Black communities worked together to create multi-year workplans and to identify resource requirementsto begin implementation
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Black Torontonians to take corrective action
This five-year plan leverages the talentsknowledge and experiences of Blackresidents and Black organizations as partnersin making municipal services spaces andpolicies fully inclusive and accessible toBlack Torontonians in both intent and in practice The Action Plan includes 22recommendations and 80 actions to address five issue areas 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services 3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports 4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
This Action Plan intentionally aims to impactlevers within the City of Torontorsquos influence including the following priority actions withinmunicipal jurisdiction
bull Recruitment hiring promotion and training at the City
bull Meaningful sustained investments in Black youth mentorship and employment
bull Consistent investment in critical Black-led community services
bull Transformative policy development using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implementedover a five-year term beginning in 2018Implementation will be based on five annualwork plans starting in Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report Foreach year of implementation an annualwork plan will be created by City staff incollaboration with community members andsubmitted to City Council for approval Eachannual work plan will contain key prioritiesand initiatives to advance the inclusion of Black Torontonians An annual progress report for each implementation year will bereported publicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountabilityThe establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the ActionPlan in collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable ways will be key to these efforts
2
INTRODUCTION
ldquoDespite Canadarsquos reputation for promoting multiculturalism and diversityhellip Canadarsquos history of enslavement racial segregation and marginalization has had a deleterious impact on people of African descent which must be addressed
in partnership with communitiesrdquo
- United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
October 2016
Torontonians of African descent are contributing to all areas of city life ndash addingtheir talents and assets to make Toronto stronger more vibrant and more successful
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and study after study continues to show that anti-Black racism still exists in Toronto affecting the life chances of more than 200000 Black people who call Toronto home
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Black Torontonians It is experienced as a lack of opportunity poorhealth and mental health outcomes pooreducation outcomes lower socio-economic status precarious employment higherunemployment significant poverty rates andoverrepresentation in the criminal justice mental health and child welfare systems
3
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
Anti-Black racism is policies and practices embedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discrimination that is directed at people of African descent and is rooted in their unique history and experience of enslavement and colonization here in Canada
Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen in day-to-day interactions) and it is structural (as seenin laws and policies that govern this city)
Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched inCanadian institutions policies and practicesoften making this particular form of racismappear normal or invisible to the largersociety This makes it more difficult for Blackpeople to name their specific experiencesof anti-Black racism Often doing so comeswith severe consequences such as loss ofemployment targeting isolation violenceand emotional and spiritual injuries
The ongoing reality of anti-Black racism inToronto stands as an obstacle to a truly fair and just city
The City of Toronto as a government has a duty to make decisions and take actionsthat help Toronto become an inclusive and prosperous place for everyone
Examples of the many disparities Black Torontonians face
bull Black Torontonians are victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism is the motivating factor1
bull 42 of children in the care of the Childrenrsquos Aid Society of Toronto are Black five times their representation in the overall population2
bull Black students become ldquoearly leaversrdquo of high school at higher rates ndash 23 compared to 12 of white students3
bull Torontonians of African descent have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate4
bull 27 of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall Toronto population5
bull Black women and girls are one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups6
4
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
MAYOR JOHN TORY Anti-Black racism exists in Toronto
I believe this is an important statement forthe Mayor of Toronto to make as we strive for inclusion and to live by our values as themost diverse city in the world
Eradicating anti-Black racism ndash althoughdifficult ndash must be our goal in Toronto because it stands as an obstacle to building atruly fair and just city
I understand that members of our cityrsquosBlack communities are tired of being askedto recount their own experiences of racismand the experiences of their ancestors andchildren
We know these experiences are real and we know we must take action And so
we embarked on an initiative to engageTorontorsquos Black communities in developing a Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism five years of initiatives to addresssystemic barriers that exist across the city
As part of this process we took themany reports on racism that have beenwritten over the past 41 years and puttheir recommendations in front of peoplefor discussion through 41 CommunityConversations held by the City in partnershipwith community organizations We wanted to know which actions Torontorsquos Black communities felt would make the greatestdifference in their lives
These conversations drew more than 800 participants who shared their experiencestheir priorities and their concerns
I attended four of those discussions myself Ilistened to community members in Rexdale Jane and Finch Scarborough and Weston Mt Dennis I listened to fathers and mothers small business owners on Eglinton West and I went to Black CAP and listened to members of the queer and trans community
I listened to people describe what it feels liketo have someone follow you around a store
I heard very thoughtful comments about thepresence of uniformed police in schools andwhether this program is really meeting itsgoals
I heard parents and students talk aboutthe lack of Black teachers I heard peoplediscuss the higher rates of unemploymentexperienced by young Black men in ourneighbourhoods and the dramatically higherpercentage of young Black men in the justice system
I listened and I learned
And now we have presented an Action Planwith five themes 22 recommendations and some 80 actions the City will undertake
This is a real plan and I am committed toacting on it
In fact the work has already begun
As some first steps I met with senior staffincluding Black leaders in the Toronto Public Service to begin identifying systemic barriersinside City Hall I heard a lot about theculture change that needs to happen herestarting with comprehensive training of staffto recognise understand and shift anti-Black racism thinking and practice Aided bycommunity expertise this work will help seedsystemic change that will positively impactservice planning policy development andcustomer service
We continue to invest in Black youth In October Council approved a $400000investment in Black community-led
initiatives to support Black youth leadershipdevelopment through the Black Youth Leadership Project Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism A community Leadership Panel was recruited this fall with the investments going into community in 2018
Wersquore making capital investments in two important youth development initiativesfocused on the arts ndash The Remix Project and Nia Centre for the Arts to help theseimportant skill development initiatives havestable community spaces from which to serveour young people
These complement continued youthemployment initiatives to support youth whohave been affected by the criminal justicesystem and to provide them with access togrowing sectors of opportunity
There are many more steps to be taken butwe are getting started right away and I hopeyou see this as an indication of my intentionto lead and to act
What I heard most of all in these sessions was the simple heartfelt desire on the partof adults to see better things for the nextgeneration often their own children Young people told me of their desire to have a fairchance and a life in Toronto free from racism and discrimination
Listening to this I know that our objectivemust be no less than to bring an end toacts of discrimination based on race an end to stereotyping and marginalization theintroduction of systemic changes to eradicateracism and a focus on providing the sameopportunities to all of our residents
This wonrsquot be easy or instantaneous but Ipledge to lead to work within governmentand in partnership with Torontorsquos Black communities to forge a city where our valuesand goals are matched by reality
Mayor John Tory
CONTENTS Executive Summary 1
Anti-Black Racism
Supports
amp Black Leadership
Introduction 3
Building An Effective Plan 5
Public Education to Confront 6
Terminology 7
Municipal Levers for Change 9
Purpose Vision and Principles 11
Anti-Black Racism Analysis 14
Partnership amp Accountability Circle 17
Children amp Youth Development 19
Health amp Community Services 23
Job Opportunities amp Income 29
Policing amp The Justice System 33
Community Engagement 37
Intergovernmental Cooperation 40
Next Steps 41
Summary Chart 43
Acknowledgements 51
References 53
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and studies continue to show that anti-Black racism still exists in this cityaffecting the life chances of more than200000 people of African descent who callToronto home
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descentand is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationhere in Canada
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Torontonians of African descent It is experienced as a lack ofopportunity poor health and mental health
outcomes poor education outcomeshigher rates of precarious employment andunemployment significant poverty andoverrepresentation in the criminal justicemental health and child welfare systems
To begin confronting anti-Black racism in Toronto the City of Toronto partnered with Black leaders and organizations to createand implement a four-phase process Phaseone was the development and launch ofthe Toronto For All campaign in November 2016 naming and challenging anti-Blackracism for public education Phase two wasthe review of 41 yearsrsquo worth of researchand recommendations about addressinganti-Black racism in Toronto This review created the foundation for 41 CommunityConversations in phase three to determinehow best to take meaningful action goingforward Conversations ran from January toMarch 2017 Black Torontonians reviewed a
1
EXECUTIVE SU
MM
ARY
draft action plan at a citywide workshop inMay 2017 and provided feedback In Phasefour City staff and subject matter expertsfrom across Torontorsquos Black communities worked together to create multi-year workplans and to identify resource requirementsto begin implementation
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Black Torontonians to take corrective action
This five-year plan leverages the talentsknowledge and experiences of Blackresidents and Black organizations as partnersin making municipal services spaces andpolicies fully inclusive and accessible toBlack Torontonians in both intent and in practice The Action Plan includes 22recommendations and 80 actions to address five issue areas 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services 3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports 4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
This Action Plan intentionally aims to impactlevers within the City of Torontorsquos influence including the following priority actions withinmunicipal jurisdiction
bull Recruitment hiring promotion and training at the City
bull Meaningful sustained investments in Black youth mentorship and employment
bull Consistent investment in critical Black-led community services
bull Transformative policy development using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implementedover a five-year term beginning in 2018Implementation will be based on five annualwork plans starting in Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report Foreach year of implementation an annualwork plan will be created by City staff incollaboration with community members andsubmitted to City Council for approval Eachannual work plan will contain key prioritiesand initiatives to advance the inclusion of Black Torontonians An annual progress report for each implementation year will bereported publicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountabilityThe establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the ActionPlan in collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable ways will be key to these efforts
2
INTRODUCTION
ldquoDespite Canadarsquos reputation for promoting multiculturalism and diversityhellip Canadarsquos history of enslavement racial segregation and marginalization has had a deleterious impact on people of African descent which must be addressed
in partnership with communitiesrdquo
- United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
October 2016
Torontonians of African descent are contributing to all areas of city life ndash addingtheir talents and assets to make Toronto stronger more vibrant and more successful
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and study after study continues to show that anti-Black racism still exists in Toronto affecting the life chances of more than 200000 Black people who call Toronto home
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Black Torontonians It is experienced as a lack of opportunity poorhealth and mental health outcomes pooreducation outcomes lower socio-economic status precarious employment higherunemployment significant poverty rates andoverrepresentation in the criminal justice mental health and child welfare systems
3
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
Anti-Black racism is policies and practices embedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discrimination that is directed at people of African descent and is rooted in their unique history and experience of enslavement and colonization here in Canada
Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen in day-to-day interactions) and it is structural (as seenin laws and policies that govern this city)
Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched inCanadian institutions policies and practicesoften making this particular form of racismappear normal or invisible to the largersociety This makes it more difficult for Blackpeople to name their specific experiencesof anti-Black racism Often doing so comeswith severe consequences such as loss ofemployment targeting isolation violenceand emotional and spiritual injuries
The ongoing reality of anti-Black racism inToronto stands as an obstacle to a truly fair and just city
The City of Toronto as a government has a duty to make decisions and take actionsthat help Toronto become an inclusive and prosperous place for everyone
Examples of the many disparities Black Torontonians face
bull Black Torontonians are victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism is the motivating factor1
bull 42 of children in the care of the Childrenrsquos Aid Society of Toronto are Black five times their representation in the overall population2
bull Black students become ldquoearly leaversrdquo of high school at higher rates ndash 23 compared to 12 of white students3
bull Torontonians of African descent have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate4
bull 27 of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall Toronto population5
bull Black women and girls are one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups6
4
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
I attended four of those discussions myself Ilistened to community members in Rexdale Jane and Finch Scarborough and Weston Mt Dennis I listened to fathers and mothers small business owners on Eglinton West and I went to Black CAP and listened to members of the queer and trans community
I listened to people describe what it feels liketo have someone follow you around a store
I heard very thoughtful comments about thepresence of uniformed police in schools andwhether this program is really meeting itsgoals
I heard parents and students talk aboutthe lack of Black teachers I heard peoplediscuss the higher rates of unemploymentexperienced by young Black men in ourneighbourhoods and the dramatically higherpercentage of young Black men in the justice system
I listened and I learned
And now we have presented an Action Planwith five themes 22 recommendations and some 80 actions the City will undertake
This is a real plan and I am committed toacting on it
In fact the work has already begun
As some first steps I met with senior staffincluding Black leaders in the Toronto Public Service to begin identifying systemic barriersinside City Hall I heard a lot about theculture change that needs to happen herestarting with comprehensive training of staffto recognise understand and shift anti-Black racism thinking and practice Aided bycommunity expertise this work will help seedsystemic change that will positively impactservice planning policy development andcustomer service
We continue to invest in Black youth In October Council approved a $400000investment in Black community-led
initiatives to support Black youth leadershipdevelopment through the Black Youth Leadership Project Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism A community Leadership Panel was recruited this fall with the investments going into community in 2018
Wersquore making capital investments in two important youth development initiativesfocused on the arts ndash The Remix Project and Nia Centre for the Arts to help theseimportant skill development initiatives havestable community spaces from which to serveour young people
These complement continued youthemployment initiatives to support youth whohave been affected by the criminal justicesystem and to provide them with access togrowing sectors of opportunity
There are many more steps to be taken butwe are getting started right away and I hopeyou see this as an indication of my intentionto lead and to act
What I heard most of all in these sessions was the simple heartfelt desire on the partof adults to see better things for the nextgeneration often their own children Young people told me of their desire to have a fairchance and a life in Toronto free from racism and discrimination
Listening to this I know that our objectivemust be no less than to bring an end toacts of discrimination based on race an end to stereotyping and marginalization theintroduction of systemic changes to eradicateracism and a focus on providing the sameopportunities to all of our residents
This wonrsquot be easy or instantaneous but Ipledge to lead to work within governmentand in partnership with Torontorsquos Black communities to forge a city where our valuesand goals are matched by reality
Mayor John Tory
CONTENTS Executive Summary 1
Anti-Black Racism
Supports
amp Black Leadership
Introduction 3
Building An Effective Plan 5
Public Education to Confront 6
Terminology 7
Municipal Levers for Change 9
Purpose Vision and Principles 11
Anti-Black Racism Analysis 14
Partnership amp Accountability Circle 17
Children amp Youth Development 19
Health amp Community Services 23
Job Opportunities amp Income 29
Policing amp The Justice System 33
Community Engagement 37
Intergovernmental Cooperation 40
Next Steps 41
Summary Chart 43
Acknowledgements 51
References 53
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and studies continue to show that anti-Black racism still exists in this cityaffecting the life chances of more than200000 people of African descent who callToronto home
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descentand is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationhere in Canada
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Torontonians of African descent It is experienced as a lack ofopportunity poor health and mental health
outcomes poor education outcomeshigher rates of precarious employment andunemployment significant poverty andoverrepresentation in the criminal justicemental health and child welfare systems
To begin confronting anti-Black racism in Toronto the City of Toronto partnered with Black leaders and organizations to createand implement a four-phase process Phaseone was the development and launch ofthe Toronto For All campaign in November 2016 naming and challenging anti-Blackracism for public education Phase two wasthe review of 41 yearsrsquo worth of researchand recommendations about addressinganti-Black racism in Toronto This review created the foundation for 41 CommunityConversations in phase three to determinehow best to take meaningful action goingforward Conversations ran from January toMarch 2017 Black Torontonians reviewed a
1
EXECUTIVE SU
MM
ARY
draft action plan at a citywide workshop inMay 2017 and provided feedback In Phasefour City staff and subject matter expertsfrom across Torontorsquos Black communities worked together to create multi-year workplans and to identify resource requirementsto begin implementation
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Black Torontonians to take corrective action
This five-year plan leverages the talentsknowledge and experiences of Blackresidents and Black organizations as partnersin making municipal services spaces andpolicies fully inclusive and accessible toBlack Torontonians in both intent and in practice The Action Plan includes 22recommendations and 80 actions to address five issue areas 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services 3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports 4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
This Action Plan intentionally aims to impactlevers within the City of Torontorsquos influence including the following priority actions withinmunicipal jurisdiction
bull Recruitment hiring promotion and training at the City
bull Meaningful sustained investments in Black youth mentorship and employment
bull Consistent investment in critical Black-led community services
bull Transformative policy development using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implementedover a five-year term beginning in 2018Implementation will be based on five annualwork plans starting in Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report Foreach year of implementation an annualwork plan will be created by City staff incollaboration with community members andsubmitted to City Council for approval Eachannual work plan will contain key prioritiesand initiatives to advance the inclusion of Black Torontonians An annual progress report for each implementation year will bereported publicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountabilityThe establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the ActionPlan in collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable ways will be key to these efforts
2
INTRODUCTION
ldquoDespite Canadarsquos reputation for promoting multiculturalism and diversityhellip Canadarsquos history of enslavement racial segregation and marginalization has had a deleterious impact on people of African descent which must be addressed
in partnership with communitiesrdquo
- United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
October 2016
Torontonians of African descent are contributing to all areas of city life ndash addingtheir talents and assets to make Toronto stronger more vibrant and more successful
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and study after study continues to show that anti-Black racism still exists in Toronto affecting the life chances of more than 200000 Black people who call Toronto home
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Black Torontonians It is experienced as a lack of opportunity poorhealth and mental health outcomes pooreducation outcomes lower socio-economic status precarious employment higherunemployment significant poverty rates andoverrepresentation in the criminal justice mental health and child welfare systems
3
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
Anti-Black racism is policies and practices embedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discrimination that is directed at people of African descent and is rooted in their unique history and experience of enslavement and colonization here in Canada
Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen in day-to-day interactions) and it is structural (as seenin laws and policies that govern this city)
Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched inCanadian institutions policies and practicesoften making this particular form of racismappear normal or invisible to the largersociety This makes it more difficult for Blackpeople to name their specific experiencesof anti-Black racism Often doing so comeswith severe consequences such as loss ofemployment targeting isolation violenceand emotional and spiritual injuries
The ongoing reality of anti-Black racism inToronto stands as an obstacle to a truly fair and just city
The City of Toronto as a government has a duty to make decisions and take actionsthat help Toronto become an inclusive and prosperous place for everyone
Examples of the many disparities Black Torontonians face
bull Black Torontonians are victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism is the motivating factor1
bull 42 of children in the care of the Childrenrsquos Aid Society of Toronto are Black five times their representation in the overall population2
bull Black students become ldquoearly leaversrdquo of high school at higher rates ndash 23 compared to 12 of white students3
bull Torontonians of African descent have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate4
bull 27 of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall Toronto population5
bull Black women and girls are one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups6
4
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
CONTENTS Executive Summary 1
Anti-Black Racism
Supports
amp Black Leadership
Introduction 3
Building An Effective Plan 5
Public Education to Confront 6
Terminology 7
Municipal Levers for Change 9
Purpose Vision and Principles 11
Anti-Black Racism Analysis 14
Partnership amp Accountability Circle 17
Children amp Youth Development 19
Health amp Community Services 23
Job Opportunities amp Income 29
Policing amp The Justice System 33
Community Engagement 37
Intergovernmental Cooperation 40
Next Steps 41
Summary Chart 43
Acknowledgements 51
References 53
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and studies continue to show that anti-Black racism still exists in this cityaffecting the life chances of more than200000 people of African descent who callToronto home
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descentand is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationhere in Canada
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Torontonians of African descent It is experienced as a lack ofopportunity poor health and mental health
outcomes poor education outcomeshigher rates of precarious employment andunemployment significant poverty andoverrepresentation in the criminal justicemental health and child welfare systems
To begin confronting anti-Black racism in Toronto the City of Toronto partnered with Black leaders and organizations to createand implement a four-phase process Phaseone was the development and launch ofthe Toronto For All campaign in November 2016 naming and challenging anti-Blackracism for public education Phase two wasthe review of 41 yearsrsquo worth of researchand recommendations about addressinganti-Black racism in Toronto This review created the foundation for 41 CommunityConversations in phase three to determinehow best to take meaningful action goingforward Conversations ran from January toMarch 2017 Black Torontonians reviewed a
1
EXECUTIVE SU
MM
ARY
draft action plan at a citywide workshop inMay 2017 and provided feedback In Phasefour City staff and subject matter expertsfrom across Torontorsquos Black communities worked together to create multi-year workplans and to identify resource requirementsto begin implementation
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Black Torontonians to take corrective action
This five-year plan leverages the talentsknowledge and experiences of Blackresidents and Black organizations as partnersin making municipal services spaces andpolicies fully inclusive and accessible toBlack Torontonians in both intent and in practice The Action Plan includes 22recommendations and 80 actions to address five issue areas 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services 3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports 4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
This Action Plan intentionally aims to impactlevers within the City of Torontorsquos influence including the following priority actions withinmunicipal jurisdiction
bull Recruitment hiring promotion and training at the City
bull Meaningful sustained investments in Black youth mentorship and employment
bull Consistent investment in critical Black-led community services
bull Transformative policy development using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implementedover a five-year term beginning in 2018Implementation will be based on five annualwork plans starting in Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report Foreach year of implementation an annualwork plan will be created by City staff incollaboration with community members andsubmitted to City Council for approval Eachannual work plan will contain key prioritiesand initiatives to advance the inclusion of Black Torontonians An annual progress report for each implementation year will bereported publicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountabilityThe establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the ActionPlan in collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable ways will be key to these efforts
2
INTRODUCTION
ldquoDespite Canadarsquos reputation for promoting multiculturalism and diversityhellip Canadarsquos history of enslavement racial segregation and marginalization has had a deleterious impact on people of African descent which must be addressed
in partnership with communitiesrdquo
- United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
October 2016
Torontonians of African descent are contributing to all areas of city life ndash addingtheir talents and assets to make Toronto stronger more vibrant and more successful
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and study after study continues to show that anti-Black racism still exists in Toronto affecting the life chances of more than 200000 Black people who call Toronto home
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Black Torontonians It is experienced as a lack of opportunity poorhealth and mental health outcomes pooreducation outcomes lower socio-economic status precarious employment higherunemployment significant poverty rates andoverrepresentation in the criminal justice mental health and child welfare systems
3
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
Anti-Black racism is policies and practices embedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discrimination that is directed at people of African descent and is rooted in their unique history and experience of enslavement and colonization here in Canada
Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen in day-to-day interactions) and it is structural (as seenin laws and policies that govern this city)
Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched inCanadian institutions policies and practicesoften making this particular form of racismappear normal or invisible to the largersociety This makes it more difficult for Blackpeople to name their specific experiencesof anti-Black racism Often doing so comeswith severe consequences such as loss ofemployment targeting isolation violenceand emotional and spiritual injuries
The ongoing reality of anti-Black racism inToronto stands as an obstacle to a truly fair and just city
The City of Toronto as a government has a duty to make decisions and take actionsthat help Toronto become an inclusive and prosperous place for everyone
Examples of the many disparities Black Torontonians face
bull Black Torontonians are victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism is the motivating factor1
bull 42 of children in the care of the Childrenrsquos Aid Society of Toronto are Black five times their representation in the overall population2
bull Black students become ldquoearly leaversrdquo of high school at higher rates ndash 23 compared to 12 of white students3
bull Torontonians of African descent have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate4
bull 27 of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall Toronto population5
bull Black women and girls are one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups6
4
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and studies continue to show that anti-Black racism still exists in this cityaffecting the life chances of more than200000 people of African descent who callToronto home
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descentand is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationhere in Canada
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Torontonians of African descent It is experienced as a lack ofopportunity poor health and mental health
outcomes poor education outcomeshigher rates of precarious employment andunemployment significant poverty andoverrepresentation in the criminal justicemental health and child welfare systems
To begin confronting anti-Black racism in Toronto the City of Toronto partnered with Black leaders and organizations to createand implement a four-phase process Phaseone was the development and launch ofthe Toronto For All campaign in November 2016 naming and challenging anti-Blackracism for public education Phase two wasthe review of 41 yearsrsquo worth of researchand recommendations about addressinganti-Black racism in Toronto This review created the foundation for 41 CommunityConversations in phase three to determinehow best to take meaningful action goingforward Conversations ran from January toMarch 2017 Black Torontonians reviewed a
1
EXECUTIVE SU
MM
ARY
draft action plan at a citywide workshop inMay 2017 and provided feedback In Phasefour City staff and subject matter expertsfrom across Torontorsquos Black communities worked together to create multi-year workplans and to identify resource requirementsto begin implementation
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Black Torontonians to take corrective action
This five-year plan leverages the talentsknowledge and experiences of Blackresidents and Black organizations as partnersin making municipal services spaces andpolicies fully inclusive and accessible toBlack Torontonians in both intent and in practice The Action Plan includes 22recommendations and 80 actions to address five issue areas 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services 3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports 4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
This Action Plan intentionally aims to impactlevers within the City of Torontorsquos influence including the following priority actions withinmunicipal jurisdiction
bull Recruitment hiring promotion and training at the City
bull Meaningful sustained investments in Black youth mentorship and employment
bull Consistent investment in critical Black-led community services
bull Transformative policy development using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implementedover a five-year term beginning in 2018Implementation will be based on five annualwork plans starting in Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report Foreach year of implementation an annualwork plan will be created by City staff incollaboration with community members andsubmitted to City Council for approval Eachannual work plan will contain key prioritiesand initiatives to advance the inclusion of Black Torontonians An annual progress report for each implementation year will bereported publicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountabilityThe establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the ActionPlan in collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable ways will be key to these efforts
2
INTRODUCTION
ldquoDespite Canadarsquos reputation for promoting multiculturalism and diversityhellip Canadarsquos history of enslavement racial segregation and marginalization has had a deleterious impact on people of African descent which must be addressed
in partnership with communitiesrdquo
- United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
October 2016
Torontonians of African descent are contributing to all areas of city life ndash addingtheir talents and assets to make Toronto stronger more vibrant and more successful
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and study after study continues to show that anti-Black racism still exists in Toronto affecting the life chances of more than 200000 Black people who call Toronto home
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Black Torontonians It is experienced as a lack of opportunity poorhealth and mental health outcomes pooreducation outcomes lower socio-economic status precarious employment higherunemployment significant poverty rates andoverrepresentation in the criminal justice mental health and child welfare systems
3
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
Anti-Black racism is policies and practices embedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discrimination that is directed at people of African descent and is rooted in their unique history and experience of enslavement and colonization here in Canada
Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen in day-to-day interactions) and it is structural (as seenin laws and policies that govern this city)
Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched inCanadian institutions policies and practicesoften making this particular form of racismappear normal or invisible to the largersociety This makes it more difficult for Blackpeople to name their specific experiencesof anti-Black racism Often doing so comeswith severe consequences such as loss ofemployment targeting isolation violenceand emotional and spiritual injuries
The ongoing reality of anti-Black racism inToronto stands as an obstacle to a truly fair and just city
The City of Toronto as a government has a duty to make decisions and take actionsthat help Toronto become an inclusive and prosperous place for everyone
Examples of the many disparities Black Torontonians face
bull Black Torontonians are victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism is the motivating factor1
bull 42 of children in the care of the Childrenrsquos Aid Society of Toronto are Black five times their representation in the overall population2
bull Black students become ldquoearly leaversrdquo of high school at higher rates ndash 23 compared to 12 of white students3
bull Torontonians of African descent have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate4
bull 27 of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall Toronto population5
bull Black women and girls are one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups6
4
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and studies continue to show that anti-Black racism still exists in this cityaffecting the life chances of more than200000 people of African descent who callToronto home
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descentand is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationhere in Canada
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Torontonians of African descent It is experienced as a lack ofopportunity poor health and mental health
outcomes poor education outcomeshigher rates of precarious employment andunemployment significant poverty andoverrepresentation in the criminal justicemental health and child welfare systems
To begin confronting anti-Black racism in Toronto the City of Toronto partnered with Black leaders and organizations to createand implement a four-phase process Phaseone was the development and launch ofthe Toronto For All campaign in November 2016 naming and challenging anti-Blackracism for public education Phase two wasthe review of 41 yearsrsquo worth of researchand recommendations about addressinganti-Black racism in Toronto This review created the foundation for 41 CommunityConversations in phase three to determinehow best to take meaningful action goingforward Conversations ran from January toMarch 2017 Black Torontonians reviewed a
1
EXECUTIVE SU
MM
ARY
draft action plan at a citywide workshop inMay 2017 and provided feedback In Phasefour City staff and subject matter expertsfrom across Torontorsquos Black communities worked together to create multi-year workplans and to identify resource requirementsto begin implementation
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Black Torontonians to take corrective action
This five-year plan leverages the talentsknowledge and experiences of Blackresidents and Black organizations as partnersin making municipal services spaces andpolicies fully inclusive and accessible toBlack Torontonians in both intent and in practice The Action Plan includes 22recommendations and 80 actions to address five issue areas 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services 3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports 4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
This Action Plan intentionally aims to impactlevers within the City of Torontorsquos influence including the following priority actions withinmunicipal jurisdiction
bull Recruitment hiring promotion and training at the City
bull Meaningful sustained investments in Black youth mentorship and employment
bull Consistent investment in critical Black-led community services
bull Transformative policy development using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implementedover a five-year term beginning in 2018Implementation will be based on five annualwork plans starting in Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report Foreach year of implementation an annualwork plan will be created by City staff incollaboration with community members andsubmitted to City Council for approval Eachannual work plan will contain key prioritiesand initiatives to advance the inclusion of Black Torontonians An annual progress report for each implementation year will bereported publicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountabilityThe establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the ActionPlan in collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable ways will be key to these efforts
2
INTRODUCTION
ldquoDespite Canadarsquos reputation for promoting multiculturalism and diversityhellip Canadarsquos history of enslavement racial segregation and marginalization has had a deleterious impact on people of African descent which must be addressed
in partnership with communitiesrdquo
- United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
October 2016
Torontonians of African descent are contributing to all areas of city life ndash addingtheir talents and assets to make Toronto stronger more vibrant and more successful
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and study after study continues to show that anti-Black racism still exists in Toronto affecting the life chances of more than 200000 Black people who call Toronto home
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Black Torontonians It is experienced as a lack of opportunity poorhealth and mental health outcomes pooreducation outcomes lower socio-economic status precarious employment higherunemployment significant poverty rates andoverrepresentation in the criminal justice mental health and child welfare systems
3
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
Anti-Black racism is policies and practices embedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discrimination that is directed at people of African descent and is rooted in their unique history and experience of enslavement and colonization here in Canada
Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen in day-to-day interactions) and it is structural (as seenin laws and policies that govern this city)
Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched inCanadian institutions policies and practicesoften making this particular form of racismappear normal or invisible to the largersociety This makes it more difficult for Blackpeople to name their specific experiencesof anti-Black racism Often doing so comeswith severe consequences such as loss ofemployment targeting isolation violenceand emotional and spiritual injuries
The ongoing reality of anti-Black racism inToronto stands as an obstacle to a truly fair and just city
The City of Toronto as a government has a duty to make decisions and take actionsthat help Toronto become an inclusive and prosperous place for everyone
Examples of the many disparities Black Torontonians face
bull Black Torontonians are victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism is the motivating factor1
bull 42 of children in the care of the Childrenrsquos Aid Society of Toronto are Black five times their representation in the overall population2
bull Black students become ldquoearly leaversrdquo of high school at higher rates ndash 23 compared to 12 of white students3
bull Torontonians of African descent have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate4
bull 27 of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall Toronto population5
bull Black women and girls are one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups6
4
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
EXECUTIVE SU
MM
ARY
draft action plan at a citywide workshop inMay 2017 and provided feedback In Phasefour City staff and subject matter expertsfrom across Torontorsquos Black communities worked together to create multi-year workplans and to identify resource requirementsto begin implementation
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Black Torontonians to take corrective action
This five-year plan leverages the talentsknowledge and experiences of Blackresidents and Black organizations as partnersin making municipal services spaces andpolicies fully inclusive and accessible toBlack Torontonians in both intent and in practice The Action Plan includes 22recommendations and 80 actions to address five issue areas 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services 3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports 4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
This Action Plan intentionally aims to impactlevers within the City of Torontorsquos influence including the following priority actions withinmunicipal jurisdiction
bull Recruitment hiring promotion and training at the City
bull Meaningful sustained investments in Black youth mentorship and employment
bull Consistent investment in critical Black-led community services
bull Transformative policy development using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implementedover a five-year term beginning in 2018Implementation will be based on five annualwork plans starting in Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report Foreach year of implementation an annualwork plan will be created by City staff incollaboration with community members andsubmitted to City Council for approval Eachannual work plan will contain key prioritiesand initiatives to advance the inclusion of Black Torontonians An annual progress report for each implementation year will bereported publicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountabilityThe establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the ActionPlan in collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable ways will be key to these efforts
2
INTRODUCTION
ldquoDespite Canadarsquos reputation for promoting multiculturalism and diversityhellip Canadarsquos history of enslavement racial segregation and marginalization has had a deleterious impact on people of African descent which must be addressed
in partnership with communitiesrdquo
- United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
October 2016
Torontonians of African descent are contributing to all areas of city life ndash addingtheir talents and assets to make Toronto stronger more vibrant and more successful
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and study after study continues to show that anti-Black racism still exists in Toronto affecting the life chances of more than 200000 Black people who call Toronto home
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Black Torontonians It is experienced as a lack of opportunity poorhealth and mental health outcomes pooreducation outcomes lower socio-economic status precarious employment higherunemployment significant poverty rates andoverrepresentation in the criminal justice mental health and child welfare systems
3
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
Anti-Black racism is policies and practices embedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discrimination that is directed at people of African descent and is rooted in their unique history and experience of enslavement and colonization here in Canada
Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen in day-to-day interactions) and it is structural (as seenin laws and policies that govern this city)
Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched inCanadian institutions policies and practicesoften making this particular form of racismappear normal or invisible to the largersociety This makes it more difficult for Blackpeople to name their specific experiencesof anti-Black racism Often doing so comeswith severe consequences such as loss ofemployment targeting isolation violenceand emotional and spiritual injuries
The ongoing reality of anti-Black racism inToronto stands as an obstacle to a truly fair and just city
The City of Toronto as a government has a duty to make decisions and take actionsthat help Toronto become an inclusive and prosperous place for everyone
Examples of the many disparities Black Torontonians face
bull Black Torontonians are victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism is the motivating factor1
bull 42 of children in the care of the Childrenrsquos Aid Society of Toronto are Black five times their representation in the overall population2
bull Black students become ldquoearly leaversrdquo of high school at higher rates ndash 23 compared to 12 of white students3
bull Torontonians of African descent have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate4
bull 27 of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall Toronto population5
bull Black women and girls are one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups6
4
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
INTRODUCTION
ldquoDespite Canadarsquos reputation for promoting multiculturalism and diversityhellip Canadarsquos history of enslavement racial segregation and marginalization has had a deleterious impact on people of African descent which must be addressed
in partnership with communitiesrdquo
- United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
October 2016
Torontonians of African descent are contributing to all areas of city life ndash addingtheir talents and assets to make Toronto stronger more vibrant and more successful
Toronto is the most diverse city in the world However the experiences of BlackTorontonians and study after study continues to show that anti-Black racism still exists in Toronto affecting the life chances of more than 200000 Black people who call Toronto home
The legacy of anti-Black racism lies in thecurrent social economic and politicalmarginalization of Black Torontonians It is experienced as a lack of opportunity poorhealth and mental health outcomes pooreducation outcomes lower socio-economic status precarious employment higherunemployment significant poverty rates andoverrepresentation in the criminal justice mental health and child welfare systems
3
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
Anti-Black racism is policies and practices embedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discrimination that is directed at people of African descent and is rooted in their unique history and experience of enslavement and colonization here in Canada
Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen in day-to-day interactions) and it is structural (as seenin laws and policies that govern this city)
Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched inCanadian institutions policies and practicesoften making this particular form of racismappear normal or invisible to the largersociety This makes it more difficult for Blackpeople to name their specific experiencesof anti-Black racism Often doing so comeswith severe consequences such as loss ofemployment targeting isolation violenceand emotional and spiritual injuries
The ongoing reality of anti-Black racism inToronto stands as an obstacle to a truly fair and just city
The City of Toronto as a government has a duty to make decisions and take actionsthat help Toronto become an inclusive and prosperous place for everyone
Examples of the many disparities Black Torontonians face
bull Black Torontonians are victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism is the motivating factor1
bull 42 of children in the care of the Childrenrsquos Aid Society of Toronto are Black five times their representation in the overall population2
bull Black students become ldquoearly leaversrdquo of high school at higher rates ndash 23 compared to 12 of white students3
bull Torontonians of African descent have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate4
bull 27 of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall Toronto population5
bull Black women and girls are one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups6
4
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
Anti-Black racism is policies and practices embedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discrimination that is directed at people of African descent and is rooted in their unique history and experience of enslavement and colonization here in Canada
Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen in day-to-day interactions) and it is structural (as seenin laws and policies that govern this city)
Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched inCanadian institutions policies and practicesoften making this particular form of racismappear normal or invisible to the largersociety This makes it more difficult for Blackpeople to name their specific experiencesof anti-Black racism Often doing so comeswith severe consequences such as loss ofemployment targeting isolation violenceand emotional and spiritual injuries
The ongoing reality of anti-Black racism inToronto stands as an obstacle to a truly fair and just city
The City of Toronto as a government has a duty to make decisions and take actionsthat help Toronto become an inclusive and prosperous place for everyone
Examples of the many disparities Black Torontonians face
bull Black Torontonians are victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism is the motivating factor1
bull 42 of children in the care of the Childrenrsquos Aid Society of Toronto are Black five times their representation in the overall population2
bull Black students become ldquoearly leaversrdquo of high school at higher rates ndash 23 compared to 12 of white students3
bull Torontonians of African descent have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate4
bull 27 of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall Toronto population5
bull Black women and girls are one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups6
4
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PLAN
An effective action plan to confront anti-Black racism in Toronto requires the work and ideas of many people It must be builtin community leveraging the experiencesinsights and solutions of Black Torontonians
In 2016 as the City of Toronto embarked on a process to acknowledge anti-Black racismin Toronto and develop a comprehensive plan to address it we tried to do things alittle differently We were guided by three principles that emerged from a meetingMayor Tory held with Black leaders in April 2016 following protests by Black Lives MatterToronto (1) build on existing research and recommendations (2) partner with thecommunity and (3) engage young leadershipin the process
Instead of writing yet one more report wereviewed the many reports already written byBlack leaders activists educators communitygroups and public servants over the past 41years as our starting point We analyzed them and grouped over 113 recommendations intofive themes 1 Children amp Youth Development 2 Health amp Community Services3 Job Opportunities amp Income Supports4 Policing amp The Justice System 5 Community Engagement amp Black
Leadership
Then we partnered with 18 communityagencies serving Torontorsquos diverse Black communities to host 41 CommunityConversations from January to March 2017We shared these recommendations Had they been acted upon Are they still relevantWhat actions still need to be taken
We engaged 15 young leaders to guide the Community Conversations and capturecommunity ideasMore than 800 Black Torontonians from
across the city ndash young and elder Caribbeanand Continental African Black queer andBlack trans youth and adults Francophonewomen parents and caregivers communityworkers artists and business and faith leaders ndash shared with us how they would liketo build on the past recommendations toachieve meaningful action today
City staff worked with the communityfacilitators to analyze and compile thesecommunity ideas into a Draft Action PlanCity of Toronto divisions reviewed the Draft Action Plan for clarifications and additions from their service and policy perspectivesThe resulting Draft Action Plan was presentedto Black community leaders organizers andresidents on May 13 2017 in a feedbackworkshop hosted by Mayor Tory at Toronto City Hall This community feedback was usedto refine and finalize the recommendations and actions
In phase four from September 5 toSeptember 30 2017 Black communityworkers advocates business leaders and experts joined City staff from across divisionsand agencies in five Expert Working Groups supported by Black process facilitatorsThe Expert Working Groups convened to develop multi-year work plans and toidentify resources required to implementactions Additionally five Black subjectmatter experts with strong Anti-Black RacismAnalysis assisted eight City divisions andone agency to complete the same taskCollaborative meetings informed by researchinto existing effective models also supportedthe development of the Anti-Black RacismPartnership and Accountability Circle
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is the result of this collaborative effort between the City of Toronto and Torontonians of African descent
5
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
Public Education to Confront Anti-Black Racism On November 2 2016 the City of Toronto and its partner OCASI-Ontario Council ofAgencies Serving Immigrants launched apublic education campaign to raise awareness about anti-Black racism in Toronto and to equip people with the means to identify itquestion it and challenge it
The campaign built on the anti-Black racismwork of Black leaders activists educators and community groups and organizationspresent and past
As a form of public education this secondinstallment of the Toronto For All campaign was meant to provoke make Torontonians think and start and continue a conversation about anti-Black racism in our city The firstToronto For All public education campaign ran in summer 2016 naming and challengingIslamaphobia in Toronto
From June until August 2017 Toronto For All featured a public education campaignchallenging the racism and transphobia experienced by racialized trans youth
Torontorsquos Black communities are comprised of diverse people of African descent facingmany different challenges To be effective efforts to address anti-Black racism must also examine the experiences needs and assetsof Black residents who are also members of other equity-seeking groups includingwomen youth newcomers queer andtransgender people Francophones peopleaffected by the justice system people withdisabilities and people living with HIVAIDS
INTRO
DUCTIO
N
6
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
TERMINOLOGY
Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse There are as many Black experiencesin Toronto as there are Black Torontonians
In September 2017 the City convened afocus group of diverse Torontonians of African descent including community leadersand City staff to ask what terminologyshould be used in the Action Plan
Identity and language use evolves incommunities as people create and resurrectterminology to communicate their complexlived experiences When talking about agroup of residents it is mandatory that theCity use self-determined terminology thatis language that residents use to describethemselves and that they feel comfortablewith the City using to describe them andtheir identities
The use of self-determined terminology isof particular importance in the historicaland ongoing colonial relationship that existsbetween the City and Black Torontonians if City efforts are to be collaborativetransparent effective and accountable
Participants shared their thoughts feelings and experiences with terminology andsettled on these interchangeable anduniversal terms
bull Torontonians of African descent bull Black Torontonians bull Canadians of African descent and bull African Canadians
ldquoMy identity is rootedin the stories that the men and women in myfamily have passed onto me on claiming theright and the space tolive with dignity These
men and women passed on differentunderstandings of lsquoselfrsquo in relation to landcommunity country nation and our placein the world as lsquoAfricansrsquo A common thread in what has been passed on to me is thenecessity of simply having roots Whetherthey be based on geography culture orancestry the purpose remains the sameshaping your image of lsquoselfrsquo through thenarratives of a collective you relate to ratherthan having to defend your right for beingagainst a world in which you will neversee yourself reflected So whether we callourselves lsquoAfricanrsquo lsquoCaribbeanrsquo lsquoAfrican-Canadianrsquo lsquoBlackrsquo the calling remains thesame a life with dignity And this is why Iremain undecided because all these claims are validrdquo
- Clara Ganemtore
ldquoI stand by my perspective to use People of African descent and or Canadians of African descent as oppose to African CanadianAfrican Caribbean Black or Black No other grouping in society has been labeled ordeemed a colour for the exceptions of usKwame Nkrumah said ldquoI am not African because I was born in Africa but because (likeall other African Peoples on the continent or abroad) Africa was born inside of merdquo
- Brianna Lerato Mokwele
7
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
Awareness of my Black heritage started at a very young age I was born in Panama and raised in one of its Americanized regions(the Canal Zone) while attending a privateCatholic school in the Spanish speaking partof the city Gaining acceptance as well as asense of belonging often presented itselfas a challenge due to me internalizing theidea that my cultural identity didnrsquot alwaysparallel with that of my racial one (beingBlack) I developed these sentiments becauseI primarily spoke Spanish yet I had an Englishsurname American sports and politics weredaily conversations since my dad was areporter at home we customarily ate a wideselection of cuisine from my grandparentsrsquoislands and I was able to enjoy a variety ofmusical genres such as pop merengue socaand reggae Upon immigrating to CanadaI discovered my unique and rich blend ofCaribbean and Hispanic heritage and beganto understand the African influence and traditions on my diverse cultural and racialidentities therefore I embrace myself as aCanadian of African Descentrdquo
- Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin
ldquoLike everyone else my identities arecomplex and intersecting This means thathow I identify myself always depends onthe context - it depends on whatrsquos at stakeI do not have any fundamental issues withbeing ldquoBlackrdquo because I understand what theterm meant in terms of Black Power Black Panthers and so on It was a statement of radical self-determination However for this particular time and place (right here rightnow) I will assert that Irsquom African CanadianThis is what binds us socially and politicallywhatever our specific nationality or place ofbirth that we are of African descent and we are unapologetic in asserting claiming andliving our varied African-nessrdquo
-Dr Winston Husbands
ldquoI prefer the term African Canadian Like all other immigrant groups who have come toNorth America the term African Canadian links us to a concrete place (in this case acontinent rather than a country) that defines
our ancestral home our cultural heritage andour shared historyrdquo
- Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox
ldquoGrowing up in Toronto and often the only Black boy in class I was often called theJamaican kid In the summer months our parents would send us to Jamaica Ocho Riosand when playing with kids my age I wasoften called the Canadian kid from foreignAs an adult I have the same experiences whentraveling being called an African AfricanAmerican American Caribbean Canadian and Black Today I am pleased to claim all these labels assumptions and definitionsbecause being black is complex in this worldbut nonetheless I am Canadianrdquo
- Okeima Lawrence
ldquoBeing African or of African descent is notexperience geopolitical place of birth orwhere my parents were born For me it isancestral And here is a great example thatwould resonate with many In 2007 a certainman declared to the world that he would be running for office not just any office but theoffice of the leader of the free world He was born in Hawaii to a mother of Irish descent and a Kenyan He lived in Hawaii Chicago and he even spent years living in Indonesia Yet when he describes himself he never speaksof his experience of being a step son of anIndonesian father or of being partly Hawaiianor even preference of being black He callshimself an AFRICAN AMERICAN through andthrough All of his experiences regardlessLetrsquos be like Barack Obama who embraced his ancestry and did not shrink from it didnrsquotspin it as being a biracial person but tookpride in his history and realityrdquo
- Kola Iluyomade
ldquoOur ancestors were from Africa they mayhave been taken by others or they may haveleft willingly to populate other parts of theworld That history makes us African whetherwe accept that fact or not We now live in Canadahellip I think that makes us Canadians of African descentrdquo
- Lindis Collins-Bacchus
8
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
MUNICIPAL LEVERS FOR CHANGE
Eradicating anti-Black racism is not a taskthat a municipal governments alone can doThis is collective work It requires mutuallyreinforcing efforts from all orders ofgovernment institutions businesses schoolscommunity agencies and individuals That ishow sustainable long-term societal impactwill be achieved
Through this Action Plan the City is steppingforward as one key actor in this collectivework to take leadership to enact municipallevers under our influence to increase positive outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
The City of Toronto has direct administrative responsibility over a number of criticalsystems that affect Toronto residents on a daily basis
bull The City is one of the largest employers in
Toronto with a wide variety of professional positions and entry-level jobs withpathways to middle income earnings
bull The City supports Canadarsquos financialand business capital as one of the mostbusiness-friendly cities in North Americawith more than 89800 businesses operating from Toronto
bull The City owns a large portion of thehousing stock through the largestlandlord in Canada Toronto Community Housing home to 110000 Torontonians and provides support to other social andaffordable housing providers in Toronto for low-income and vulnerable residents
bull Through recreation infrastructure the Citysupports the second largest system afterthe school system for social inclusion forchildren and youth
9
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
MU
NICIPAL LEVERS
FOR CH
ANG
E bull Through local planning and community
service investments the City has intimateknowledge of 140 neighbourhoodsand leads place-based planning withcommunity partners
bull Through the Toronto Police the City operates the frontline service to thecriminal justice system
bull The City operates the crisis supportsystems for Toronto residents through Fire Paramedics Police and shelters
These are important systems that ourmunicipal government provides to itsresidents They need to be leveraged tocreate a fair accessible and supportive cityfor all Toronto residents
The recommendations and actions contained in this five year plan leveragesthese and other municipal levers Duringimplementation City staff and communitymembers through the newly establishedAnti-Black Racism Partnership and Accountability Circle will determine keyannual priorities and related initiatives toadvance the inclusion of Black Torontonians The focus is not a developing a set of newactivities - the focus will be on taking actionsthat will most effectively support equitableoutcomes for Torontonians of African descent This requires the City to collectrace-based disaggregated data and to focuson monitoring and evaluating progressending practices and initiatives that are notdelivering positive outcomes and reprioritizeresources into things that work
10
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
VISION AND PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE
The City of Toronto works to ensure that policies and practices are truly inclusive andmeet the needs of Toronto residents to live well and contribute to the cityrsquos vibrancy andprosperity
Like all Toronto residents Torontonians of African descent want to live in a city wherethe services and spaces meant to serve allresidents are also accessible to them ndash this requires removing anti-Black bias prejudiceand discrimination
Black residents want to be afforded the same life chances and opportunities to participate
as all other Torontonians Currently measures to achieve universal equity often fail toeffectively serve Black Torontonians leading to disparities and disproportionately negativeoutcomes Targeting equity measures for Torontonians of African descent will ensure they have access to the full benefits of livingin this city like other Torontonians
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism lays out actions to help ensurethat municipal services spaces and policiesbecome fully inclusive and accessible to Black Torontonians in both intent and in practice
11
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan to leverage the talents knowledge experiences and capacities of Black people and Black organizations as partners in strengthening the quality of life of Black Torontonians and the city at large
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
The Action Plan includes 22 recommendations and 80 actions across five themes Children amp Youth Development Health amp Community Services JobOpportunities amp Income Supports Policing amp the Justice System and Community Engagement amp Black Leadership
bull Some actions leverage Black cultural knowledge and practices to better support positive child and youth development
bull Some actions require targeted communication and outreach to ensure Black communities are reached by universal service efforts and job opportunities
bull Some actions assess current policies practices and structures to identify anti-Black bias and take corrective and preventative actions
bull And in other cases actions are about piloting new approaches and sustainably investing in programs and organizations that are already achieving successful outcomes
BENEFIT TO ALL
Whenever governments and serviceproviders work to target the removal ofsystemic barriers experienced by the mostdisadvantaged communities all residentsbenefit The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism follows this approach oftargeted universalism The actions whentaken as a whole and executed fully willbenefit all Torontonians especially other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization
VISION
Toronto is a city where Black residents have access to the life chances and opportunitiesenjoyed by other Torontonians We will become a city in which no Torontonian is denied access to resources or participationdue to anti-Black racism and where the knowledge skills and talents of residents ofAfrican descent are fully engaged in leadingour vibrant and thriving city
12
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
VISION
AND PRIN
CIPLES
PRINCIPLES The implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be guided by the following three principles
Partner with Black Communities
Black Torontonians are contributing to all areas of city life ndash adding their talents andassets to make the city stronger morevibrant and more successful They activelyco-developed this Action Plan with a visionof co-leadership and collective impact Thesuccessful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership and ownershipwith Black people and Black organizationsas well as action from non-Black people andinstitutions
Engage the Diveristy of Torontorsquos Black Communities
Torontonians of African descent are a diverse people comprising many communities Andyet all Black people in Toronto experience anti-Black racism In our Community Conversations we heard from Black elders
and youth women queer and trans youthfrancophone women people living withHIV young fathers and newcomers andestablished residents from the Continental African and Caribbean communities The diversity of Black identity and experiencemust remain at the heart of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
Drive Systemic Change
Anti-Black racism and discrimination are systemic and require fundamentalchanges in policy and practice acrossinstitutions within and beyond municipalgovernment While individuals mayexperience interpersonal acts of racismit is the structural barriers to equalopportunity that cause the most harm To drive systemic change the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism must be taken as a whole and executed fullyComprehensively targeting the removalof systemic barriers will improve the livesof Black Torontonians other Toronto communities experiencing racism and marginalization and all Toronto residents
13
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
THE ANTI-BLACK RACISM ANALYSIS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism requires the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as it is named inthe execution of 11 actions specificallyand to the full implementation of all 22recommendations and 80 actions
Anti-Black racism is policies and practicesembedded in Canadian institutions that reflect and reinforce beliefs attitudes prejudice stereotyping andor discriminationthat is directed at people of African descent
and is rooted in their unique history andexperience of enslavement and colonizationin Canada
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis is theapplication of this understanding of anti-Black racism to the planning developmentoperation resource allocation and evaluationof policies services practices and spaceswith the intent of achieving transformativechange
14
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
THE ANTI-BLACK
RACISM AN
ALYSIS
An Anti-Black Racism Analysis applies anunderstanding that
bull Anti-Black racism is rooted in historic and ongoing systems
bull Anti-Black racism is micro (as seen inday-to-day interactions between City staffand Torontonians of African descent) and it is structural (as seen in policies andpractices that govern this city)
bull Anti-Black racism is deeply entrenchedin Canadian institutions often makinganti-Black policies and practices appearinvisible to non-Black people
bull Torontorsquos communities of African descent are diverse
bull Torontoniansrsquo experiences of anti-Black racism are uniquely shaped by theircombined experiences of marginalizationand intersectionality is necessary toaddress anti-Black racism effectively
bull An equity approach of targeteduniversalism will identify and removesystemic barriers affecting people ofAfrican descent while benefitting otherdisadvantaged communities and the cityat large and
bull The elimination of anti-Black racism in Toronto requires fundamental transformative changes in policy andpractice across institutions within andbeyond municipal government
The Toronto Action Plan necessitates that non-Black people and institutions learn toutilize an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to targetthe removal of systemic barriers and leveragethe experiences knowledge capacities andtalents of diverse Black Torontonians and Black organizations in shared leadership at alllevels of implementation
The Cityrsquos emerging Equity Lens will includean Anti-Black Racism Analysis for regularapplication in all initiatives by City staffOperationalizing an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis is critical for the implementation ofthe Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism to be impactful and effective
15
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
OPERATIONAL QUESTIONS The following operational questions will guide the use of an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to ceateimplement and evaluate a City initiative
1 Diversity Does the initiative engagewith the diversity of Torontorsquos Black communities including geographicincome and other social differences
2 Collaboration Does the initiative prioritize collaboration with Torontorsquos communities of African descent and use an interdivisional approach across Citydivisions
3 Relationship-Building Is the initiative building relationships between diverseBlack communities and the City that areintentional and reciprocal
4 Accountability Does the initiative demonstrate accountability to Torontorsquos communities of African descent and to its internal commitments by maintaininga clear and legitimate decision-making process
5 Transparency Is the initiative transparentto Torontonians of African descent including resource and politicalimplications
6 Accessibility Does the initiative use non-academic and non-bureaucratic languageand employ multimedia and alternateformats to communicate with Black Torontonians in accessible ways
7 Creativity and Openness Is the initiative creative and open to changeand experimentation to meet thehistoric current and emerging needs ofTorontonians of African descent
8 Sustainability Is the initiative sustainable over time and responsive to the changingneeds of Torontorsquos Black communities
9 Responsiveness Does the initiative conduct ongoing checks use continuousimprovement and ensure City flexibilityin response to feedback from Blackcommunities
16
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
ANTI-BLACK RACISM PARTNERSHIP amp ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a five-year plan that leveragesthe talents knowledge and experiences ofBlack residents and Black organizations aspartners in making municipal services spacesand policies fully inclusive and accessible toTorontonians of African descent in both intent and in practice The Action Plan mandatesshared leadership and ownership with peoplewith lived experiences of anti-Black racism atevery stage of implementation
MANDATE
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will guide and supportthe full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in waysthat are collaborative transparent effectiveand accountable to Torontonians of African descent The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle will partner with theCity on municipal efforts to help the City ofToronto better serve Torontonians of African descent The Circle will
1 Provide guidance and advice to Citystaff in the planning implementationevaluation and reporting of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
2 Contribute insight analysis informationand strategy to City service and policyplanning that impacts outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
3 Advise on areas where the City should betaking a lead facilitating or convening toeffectively advance positive outcomes forTorontonians of African Descent
4 Support partnership development withBlack communities leaders organizationsand institutions to advance positiveoutcomes for Torontonians of African Descent and
5 Facilitate transparent and effective communication and engagement withTorontorsquos communities of African descent
VALUES PRINCIPLES amp PRACTICE
The proposed model is informed byIndigenous African values principles andpractices and builds on key learnings fromthe best practices of other partnership andaccountability models such as the AfricanNova Scotian Affairs and the Toronto Indigenous Health Advisory Circle (TIHAC) This partnership and accountability modelproposes intentionally balancing western andIndigenous traditions to ensure professionalexcellence in implementation of the ActionPlan
COMPOSITION
The Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle is intended to beinclusive and reflect the diversity ofTorontonians of African descent Membership of the Circle is comprised of 12 Torontonians of African descent with diverse lived experience education professional expertiseand historical knowledge of anti-Black racismin Toronto bull 4 elders who represent wisdom of
community to hold the integrity of the
17
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
Circlersquos principles values and practicesbull 4 youth with diverse lived experience
and bull 4 people who represent key stakeholder
groups of African Toronto communities
The Circle is supported by one independentcommunity facilitator of African descentwith strong capacity in organizationaldevelopment governance and IndigenousAfrican cultures to act as the bridge betweenthe community and City
SCOPE amp TERM
The Circle will focus their work on supervisingand supporting City activities and communityengagement towards the full implementationof all 22 recommendations and 81 actions from 2018-2022
SUPPORT
Secretariat support is provided by SocialDevelopment Finance amp AdministrationDivision
Circle members will receive an honorarium and be supported by standard Cityaccessibility supports of communityengagement ndash TTC tokens child minding ASL interpretation and refreshments at meetings
INITIATING ACTION
THE 2018 Work Plan Priorities include work to develop the Circle through broad andopen outreach and refinement of operatingprinciples and practices with the foundingCircle members
18
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Over 88000 Black children and youth ages0-24 live in Toronto7 While dedicated parentsand strong communities are raising manythriving Black children as a whole Blackchildren and youth face many disparities
Forty-two percent of children in care areBlack children8 Black youth have higher dropout and expulsion rates than other Toronto children9 At 23 the unemployment rate ofBlack youth in Toronto is two times higher
than the national average10 And Black youth report often feeling unwelcome orunsupported in many of the programs thatare funded to assist them
Changes are needed to ensure that Blackchildren and youth including those whoidentify as queer and transgender haveaccess to the programs protections andsupports that all children and youth need togrow up healthy safe and confident
19
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
RECOMMENDATION
1 Increase access to high-quality programs for Black children and youth
ACTIONS Develop and implement training on effective programming for Black11 children and youth using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
Increase supply and variety of culturally appropriate before- and12 after-school programs with clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts and math) programs
Support effective Black youth leadership programs including rites of13 passage civic and community leadership
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse 14 Black communities to ensure that children and youth programs reflectthe diversity of the communities they serve
Develop and implement intergenerational and cultural connections15 through Black mentorship initiatives
RECOMMENDATION 2 Meet the specific needs and aspirations of
Black queer and trans youth
ACTIONS Consult on and invest in meeting the specific needs and aspirations of21 Black queer and trans youth
22 Expand resources for Black queer and trans services providers
Work with parents of African descent service providers and youth to 23 create culturally relevant education and support services for parents ofBlack queer and trans children and youth
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
20
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
CHILDREN
amp
YOU
TH DEVELO
PMEN
T
RECOMMENDATION
3 Advocate for better protection and supports for Black children and youth
ACTIONS 31 Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for
education improvements that support safe and effective learning forstudents of African descent
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the ChildWelfare System to better serve and support children and youth of African descent
33 Collaborate with Provincial and Federal institutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers are enrolledin schools and supported
21
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
22
ldquoWhy are Black families living in poverty and they are not
collecting race-based statistics sufficiently enough so you can
actually look at the trendsrdquo - Notisha Massaquoi
Executive Director of Womenrsquos Health in Womenrsquos Hands a community health centre for women of African descent and racialized
women in Toronto
ldquoWhat needs to be immediately addressed is how anti-Black racism
impacts the social and economic mobility of young Black peoplerdquo
- Surrana Sandy Executive Director of Skills for Change a community organization for immigrants and refugees serving many of Torontorsquos
communities of African descent
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES Anti-Black racism continues to impact thehealth and wellbeing of Black Torontonians Compared to non-racialized people Torontorsquos Black residents report higher rates of painand discomfort high blood pressure andobesity11
Limited access to relevant safe affordable and effective health and community servicesremain a challenge for Black residents andfamilies living in Toronto
Black Torontonians often experience a lsquoservice desertrsquo in their neighbourhoods and when
services are available many Black residentsreport that although these services arefunded to support all Torontonians they often are inadequate in meeting the needs ofBlack residents
Changes are needed to reduce healthinequalities and improve the wellbeing ofBlack Torontonians The City especially working in concert with the Province ofOntario can take action to meet existing andemerging community health and communityservice needs
23
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
RECOMMENDATION
4 Improve the quality and availability of City-programmed community mental health services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with the Province to support training for community mental 41 health and addiction treatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to 42 leverage Black cultural knowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on-call counsellors harm reduction programs and supports for post traumatic stress disorder
RECOMMENDATION Improve the quality and effectiveness of5 health and community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Increase stable funding to Black community organizations providing51 essential services to better meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and 52 community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populationsof Black Torontonians
Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for 53 Black Torontonians
HEALTH
amp CO
MM
UN
ITY SERVICES
24
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Strengthen the accountability of health and6 community services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase61 number and retention of health social and community workers ofAfrican descent
Develop and implement an outreach initiative to recruit and train62 diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in health and community organizations
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to require the collection andpublic reporting of health and community service data disaggregatedby race and other characteristics
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with the collection of data disaggregated by race
RECOMMENDATION
7 Improve the quality of recreation services for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoods with high proportions of71 residents of African descent
Regularly engage with diverse Black Torontonians on how to expand 72 and improve recreational programming and facilities
25
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
RECOMMENDATION 8 Improve food access for low-income Black
Torontonians
ACTIONS Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to improve the programming of81 the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
RECOMMENDATION 9 Improve support models to better address
the specific needs of Black seniors newcomers people living with HIVAIDs people with disabilities and Francophone women
ACTIONS Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in the Version 20 of 91 the Toronto Seniors Strategy
Increase settlement sector knowledge of programs and services for92 Black newcomers
Ensure Black newcomers are represented in the Toronto Newcomer 93 Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding supportfor Black organizations that provide services for people of Africandescent living with HIVAIDS
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as the City implements AODA and 95 other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
Provide culturally appropriate supports to address violence against96 women of African descent in Francophone communities
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
26
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
HEALTH
amp
COM
MU
NITY SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
10 Improve shelter and housing conditions to better support Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including 101 improving the quality of Toronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service delivery model that better servesfamilies youth and vulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards andprocedures
Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger103 to mental illness
Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer 104 and trans youth
Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the105 needs of Black queer and trans youth for shelters supportservices planning
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and family shelters for womenof African descent
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Rent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to the Eviction PreventionFramework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
27
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
28
ldquoTherersquos a lot of mental things that happen with us just trying to go
through our regular day and how we find employment how we seek
education how we raise our children We have to start the conversation
from a place where we understand and accept that racism and anti-Black racism is woven into the fabric of the
society that we live inrdquo - Dwayne Morgan
an award-winning spoken word artist and a father who participated in the conversation organized by Young and Potential Fathers a community organization providing direct
support to young African Canadian fathers in Toronto
ldquoWe are encouraged by the fact that there is a specific focus on a particular
aspect of our oppression our struggles around anti-Black racism and naming it and agreeing that it has a particular kind of identification that is deeper
and more pernicious than racism in general because itrsquos connected to a
history of slavery and white supremacy and colonization Itrsquos reflected in all the
areas that we struggle withrdquo - Nene Kwasi Kafele
a longtime community advocate who participated in the conversation hosted by the African Canadian Mental Health Coalition
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS
Black Torontonians experience lower graduation rates higher rates ofunemployment and are more likely to beliving in poverty than the general populationin the city Black families are about threetimes more likely to be living on low incomesthan white families12 48 of Black children live in families with incomes of less than $30000 a year compared to only 9 of non-racialized children13 Low income rates are highest among third and later generationsof Black residents within the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area than other population groups14
Black Torontonians have an unemployment rate of 13 nearly two times the provincial rate15 Reviewing national trends the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent concluded its official visit to Canada in fall 2016 noting
anti-Black racism in the countryrsquos labourmarket For example they found a muchhigher unemployment rate for Black womenat 11 compared to 7 for the generalCanadian population and when employedBlack women make 37 less than white men and 15 less than their white female counterparts16 Black residents are often concentrated in part-time and precariouswork that is inadequate to meet their basicneeds and fails to leverage their talents
To move Black Torontonians out of poverty the City of Toronto can take actions to create effective pathways for training andemployment across sectors create strongmentorship programs that build up networksfor Black youth and provide supportsfor Black-owned businesses to grow and compete
29
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
RECOMMENDATION
11 Increase employment and training opportunities for Black Torontonians at the City of Toronto
ACTIONS 111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black people to increase the
number and retention of employees of African descent at the City ofToronto
112 Engage diverse Black experts and community members to developAnti-Black Racism training for all City staff and leaders with a focus inthe areas of Human Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
113 Include socio-demographics including race and gender identity aspart of the Cityrsquos Count Yourself In employee survey
114 Enhance current City internship programs to include youth of Africandescent including Black queer and trans youth
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
RECOMMENDATION
12 Provide mentorship programs as a pathway to employment and promotion for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage federal and provincial funding to create career-based121 mentorship programs for Black youth to support skill development andthe building of professional networks
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
30
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
RECOMMENDATION
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
13 Improve access to high-quality training and employment programs for Black youth
ACTIONS
131 Work with public and private sectors to create effective career pathways for Black youth by leveraging federal and provincial youthemployment funding and addressing the specific needs of youngwomen young Francophones youth who have been incarcerated andqueer and trans youth from Torontorsquos communities of African descent
Host employment fairs and skills development programs in community132 hubs and Black-focused agencies
Provide free police reference checks training and certifications for133 Black youth to access volunteering and entry-level jobs
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by the 134 federal andor provincial governments to support Black youth withcriminal records and integrate funding for these youth to apply forrecord suspensions
135 Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices among non-profitand private sector employers that focus the use of police referencechecks including vulnerable sector checks only for circumstanceswhere there is a legal obligation
136 Advocate to the provincial and federal governments to remove barriersto applying for criminal record suspensions
31
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
RECOMMENDATION Improve job quality and income supports for14 precariously employed Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise141 social assistance rates
RECOMMENDATION
15 Support Black-owned businesses to better compete and thrive in Toronto
ACTIONS
151 Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendor networking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones and people who were formerly incarcerated
JOB O
PPORTU
NITIES
amp IN
COM
E SUPPO
RTS
32
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM For over a decade now Black Torontonians have been the second most targetedcommunity for hate crimes in the city In2016 Black residents were victims of 85 of hate crimes in Toronto where racism was the motivating factor17 Yet lack of community trust in police means many incidents ofanti-Black harassment and violence gounreported18
Black Torontonians face many disparities related to law enforcement They aredisproportionately impacted by racialprofiling and over-policing and over-represented in federal and provincial prisonsTwenty-seven percent (27) of all carding incidents are focused on Black Torontonians three times their representation in the overall
Toronto population19 Over the last 10 yearsthe number of federally incarcerated Blackpeople has increased by 75 now accountingfor 93 of the total federal populationdespite representing just 29 of theCanadian population20 Black women and girlsare one of the fastest growing incarcerated groups21
Changes are needed to restore communitytrust accountability and effectiveness topolicing and the justice system At themunicipal level actions can be taken by theCity and the Toronto Police Service to end racial profiling train police officers to confront anti-Black racism and invest in alternative models to achieve community safety andrestorative justice
33
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
RECOMMENDATION
16 Implement measures to stop racial profiling and over-policing of Black Torontonians
ACTIONS 161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent
about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policing practice
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data
163 Review use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
165 Improve training to equip Law Enforcement Officers with knowledgeand skills to better protect and serve diverse people of African descent
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDP) and report regularly on police-EDP interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policingand the justice system to better serve and protect people of Africandescent
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
34
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
RECOMMENDATION
POLICIN
G amp
THE JU
STICE SYSTEM
17 Build a more transparent accountable and effective police oversight system to better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trust in police
ACTIONS 171 Mandate the collection and public reporting of race-based data for
greater transparency
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
173 Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobic transphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
174 Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementation of Actions related topolicing and the justice system
RECOMMENDATION
18 Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to 181 advance police accountability and community capacity to respondto policing and the criminal justice system including translationexpansion and dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquo information
35
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to develop and implementalternative models of policing that focus on community engagement
Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of183 restorative justice models developed and implemented with elders inBlack communities
POLICIN
G amp
TH
E JUSTICE SYSTEM
36
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
BLACK LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT amp
Toronto has a long and rich history of Blackleadership community engagement andinnovation From the first Black man to be elected to Canadian public office Toronto City Council in 1894 to ground-breakingcivil rights lawyers activists and educatorsFor decades Torontorsquos Black leaders founded ground-breaking organizations thatchampioned social economic and politicalinclusion for Black Torontonians The Black Action Defence League Third World Books the African Canadian Legal Clinic Womenrsquos Hands in Womenrsquos Health and now Black Lives Matter Toronto are just a few
Persistent systemic racism and anti-Black bias has required Torontorsquos Black parents young
people and leaders in faith communitiesbusiness and labour to challenge unevenpolicies and practices creating barriers in theirdaily lives
For over 41 years Black communities havebeen organizing for meaningful engagementin the decisions that affect them and their children They have asked for equitableinvestment in Black-led organizations tostrengthen the social economic civic andspiritual capacity of Black Torontonians Few sustainable investments have occurred
The successful implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism necessitates shared leadership
37
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
RECOMMENDATION
Increase opportunities for Black19 Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
ACTIONS
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent to Cityagencies boards and commissions
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse people of African descent toprogram-level advisories in City divisions
193 Engage City staff of African descent to provide guidance and leadership to the full implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
194 Review and revise the Cityrsquos complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racism is addressed at all phases and is aligned with related Cityinstruments policies and regulations
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes in communities of Africandescent
RECOMMENDATION
Make City spaces more accessible and20 welcoming to Black Torontonians
ACTIONS Leverage City spaces to create a Black community hub in partnership201 with Black service providers
Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to evaluate City202 spaces and programs
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
38
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
COM
MU
NITY
ENG
AGEM
ENT
amp BLACK LEADERSH
IP
RECOMMENDATION
21 Invest in Black arts and culture
ACTIONS
211 Report the economic impacts from City-funded major community festivals
212 Actively engage Black advice to review routes sites and security andincrease the sustainability of Black cultural festivals
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Black arts and culture
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descent to share informationabout City grants processes applications and deadlines
RECOMMENDATION
22 Provide public education on issues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
ACTIONS Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black 221 Racism
Provide public education on how anti-Black racism negatively impacts222 the health of people of African descent including being a trigger formental illness
39
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION During the process to develop the Toronto Action Plan Black Torontonians shared recommendations and actions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Province of OntarioThese include calls for
bull Improvements to the Education System to support safe and effective learning forBlack children and youth
bull Improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black childrenand youth
bull Improvements to the quality andavailability of mental health services andthe effectiveness of community and healthservices for Black Ontarians
bull Expanding access to high-qualitymentorship training and employmentprograms for Black youth
Improvements to job quality and incomesupports for precariously employed BlackOntarians
bull Improvements to human rights protectionand employment equity for BlackOntarians
bull The implementation of measures to stopracial profiling and over-policing of BlackOntarians
bull The development of a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversightsystem to better serve Black people andto strengthen community trust in police toserve and protect them
The collective work of eradicating anti-Blackracism must involve the collaboration of all orders of government institutions businessschools community agencies and individuals
40
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
NEXT STEPS
The Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism will be implemented over a five-year term 2018 to 2022 Implementation willbe based on five annual work plans startingin Year One (2018) and a corresponding progress report
For each year of implementation
An annual work plan will be created byCity staff in collaboration with communitymembers and submitted to City Council forapproval
Each annual work plan will contain key
priorities and initiatives to advance theequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African Descent
Work plans also include a mix of initiatives that can be completed within existingresources and others requiring newinvestments New resources will be soughtthrough the Cityrsquos budget process on anannual basis
An annual progress report will be reportedpublicly to help ensure continuedimprovement and community accountability
41
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
NEXT STEPS
The establishment of the Anti-Black Racism Partnership amp Accountability Circle comprised of diverse Torontonians of African descent to support the implementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism in collaborative transparent effective andaccountable to the community ways is key tothese efforts
City-community collaboration has been keyto developing the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism City-communitycollaboration will be critical to implementingthe Plan and ensuring that the actions thatare implemented work towards creatingequitable outcomes for Torontonians of African descent
INTERVENTIONS
An intervention is an act of intentional involvement to interrupt a negative situation toin order to improve it
The 80 actions of the Action Plan are summarized into nine Interventions meant to intentionally interrupt anti-Black bias anddiscrimination in policies and practices in orderto improve conditions and opportunities forBlack Torontonians and by extension benefit all Torontonians
bull Staff Learning Train staff using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Staff Recruitment amp Advancement Recruit staff from diverse Black communities
bull Race-Based Data Collect and report onrace-based data
bull Collaborative Service Planning Collaborate with people of African descent to improve systems
bull Community Investment Invest in community resources
bull Youth Mentorship amp Employment Prioritize mentorship for youth of African descent
bull Public Education Provide civics and publiceducation using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis
bull Policy Development Develop policy usingan Anti-Black Racism Analysis
bull Intergovernmental Advocacy Advocate for recommendations to the Province
City staff have begun the work planning forimplementation based on these interventionsInterventions provide a proactive thematicgrouping for actions in the Action Plan Theyallow City staff and supporting communitymembers to look for common solutions across
Join us a set of actions and integrate those solutionswhere relevant in order to have the most meaningful impact
42
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
SUMMARY CHART
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
CHILDREN amp YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
1
Increase access to highquality programs for Blackchildren and youth
11 Develop and implement training on effectiveprogramming for Black children and youththrough an Anti-Black Racism Lens
CS EDHR HR PFR SDFA TPH
12
Increase supply and variety of culturallyappropriate before and after school programswith clear learning objectives including STEAM(science technology engineering arts andmath) programs
CS PFR SDFA
13 Support effective Black youth leadershipprograms including rites of passage civic andcommunity leadership
CS HR PFR SDFA SampCP TPH
14
Increase hiring of Black Torontonians and partnerships with diverse Black communitiesto ensure that children and youth programsreflect the diversity of the communities they serve
CS HR PFR SDFA TPH
15 Develop and implement intergenerational andcultural connections through Black mentorshipinitiatives
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TCHC
2
Meet the specific needs andaspirations of Black queerand trans youth
21 Consult on and invest in meeting the specificneeds and aspirations of Black queer and transyouth
CS EDHR PFR SDFA TPH
22 Expand resources for Black queer and transservices providers SDFA TPH
23 Work with Black parents service providers and youth to create culturally relevant educationand support services for parents of Black queerand trans children and youth
CS PFR SDFA TPH EDHR
3
Advocate for better protec-tion and supports for Blackchildren and youth 31
Communicate to the Province and the school boards the need for education improvementsthat support safe and effective learning forBlack students
SampCP SDFA
32 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to the Child Welfare System to better serve and support Black children andyouth
SampCP SDFA
33 Collaborate with provincial and federalinstitutions to ensure Black newcomer children reuniting with their parentscaregivers areenrolled in schools and supported
SDFA
43
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES 4
Improve the quality andavailability of City-pro-grammed community mentalhealth services for Black Torontonians
41 Work with the Province to support training for community mental health and addictiontreatment service providers using an Anti-BlackRacism Analysis
SDFA TPH
42
Work collaboratively with Black communities and the Province to leverage Black culturalknowledge to lead and provide more mentalhealth and addiction treatment services across the city for Torontonians of African descent including clinics on call counsellors harmreduction programs and supports for post-traumatic stress disorder
SDFA TPH
5
Improve the quality andeffectiveness of health and community services for BlackTorontonians
51 Increase stable funding to Black communityorganizations providing essential services tobetter meet the needs and aspirations of BlackTorontonians
SDFA TPH
52 Replicate and expand effective models of Black-led health and community services to under-served neighbourhoods and populations ofBlack Torontonians
SDFA TPH
53 Regularly update 211 directory with community-based services for Black Torontonians SDFA
6
Strengthen the accountability of health and communityservices for Black Torontonians
61 Outreach recruit and hire from diverse Black communities to increase number and retention of health social amp community workers of Africandescent
TPH
62 Develop and implement an outreach initiative torecruit and support diverse Black Torontonians for leadership and governance roles in healthand community organizations
PFR SDFA TPH
63 Advocate and coordinate with funders to requirethe collection and public reporting of health andcommunity service data disaggregated by raceand other characteristics
HR SDFA TPH
64 Advocate and coordinate with funders to invest in community capacity to comply with thecollection of data disaggregated by race
HR SDFA TPH
7
Improve the quality ofrecreation services for Black Torontonians
71 Improve recreation spaces in neighbourhoodswith high proportions of Black residents PFR
72 Regularly engage with diverse Black Toronto-nians on how to expand and improve recreation-al programming and facilities
PFR
8 Improve food access for low-income Black Torontonians 81
Apply an Anti-Black Racism Lens to improve theprogramming of the Toronto Food Strategy and Toronto Agricultural Program
SDFA TPH
44
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY
SERVICES
9
Improve support models tobetter address the specificneeds of Black seniors newcomers people livingwith HIVAIDs people withdisabilities and Francophone women
91 Ensure seniors of African descent are represented in Version 20 of the Toronto Seniors Strategy
SDFA TPH
92 Increase settlement sector knowledge ofprograms and services for Black newcomers SDFA
93 Ensure Black newcomers are representedin the Toronto Newcomer Strategy and the Integrating Cities Charter
SDFA
94 Communicate with the Province the need for greater funding support for Blackorganizations that provide services for peopleof African descent living with HIVAIDS
TPH
95 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis as theCity implements AODA and other steps to accommodate people with disabilities
EDHR HR
96 Provide culturally appropriate supports toaddress violence against women of Africandescent in Francophone communities
SDFA TPH
10
Improve shelter and housingconditions to better supportBlack Torontonians
101
Advance the recommendations of Tenants First including improving the quality ofToronto Community Housing through a revised tenant-focused service deliverymodel that better serves families youth andvulnerable tenants including seniors with astable funding formula
SDFA SSHA TCHC
102 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to shelter standards and procedures SSHA TPH
103 Ensure shelter staff are trained on anti-Black racism as a trigger to mental illness SSHA HR
104 Create safe spaces within new LGBTQ2S shelters for Black queer and trans youth SSHA
105 Collect race-based data on homelessness particularly on the needs of Black queer andtrans youth for shelters support servicesplanning
SSHA
106 Create safe spaces within womenrsquos and familyshelters for women of African descent SSHA
107 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theRent Supplement provision process to support equitable access to rent supplement program
SSHA
108 Apply an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to theEviction Prevention Framework in the 2017-2018 Eviction Prevention Strategy
SSHA
45
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME SUPPORTS
11
Increase employment andtraining opportunities forBlack Torontonians at the City of Toronto
111 Outreach to recruit and hire diverse Black peopleto increase the number and retention of employeesof African descent at the City of Toronto
HR EDHR SDFA
112
Engage diverse Black experts and communitymembers to develop Anti-Black Racism training forall City staff and leaders with a focus in the areas ofHuman Resources practices including recruitment hiring and retention
HR EDHR SDFA
113 Include socio-demographics including race andgender identity as part of the Citys Count Yourself In employee survey
EDHR HR SDFA
114 Enhance current City internship programs toinclude youth of African descent including Blackqueer and trans youth
EDC SDFA TCHC TPH TPL
115 Engage Black City staff to create a Black Staff Network to support professional development and engagement
SDFA
12 Provide mentorship programsas a pathway to employmentand promotion for BlackTorontonians
121 Leverage federal and provincial funding to createcareer-based mentorship programs for Black youthto support skill development and the building ofprofessional networks
EDC SDFA TCHC TESS TPL
13
Improve access tohigh-quality training andemployment programs forBlack youth 131
Work with public and private sectors to remove systemic barriers in order to create effective careerpathways for Black youth by leveraging federaland provincial youth employment funding andaddressing the specific needs of young womenyoung Francophones youth with criminal recordsand queer and trans youth from Torontos communities of African descent
EDC SDFA TESS TCHC TPL
132 Host employment fairs and skills developmentprograms in community hubs and Black-focusedagencies
PFR SDFA TESS
133 Provide free police reference checks training andcertifications for Black youth to access volunteeringand entry-level jobs
HR SDFA TESS TPS
134
Target a City-administered youth employment program funded by federal andor provincialgovernments to support Black youth with criminalrecords and integrate funding for these youth toapply for record suspensions
SDFA TESS
135
Champion inclusive and equitable hiring practicesamong non-profit and private sector employersthat focus the use of police reference checksincluding vulnerable sector checks only forcircumstances where there is a legal obligation
EDHR HR SDFA TESS
136 Advocate to the provincial and federalgovernments to remove barriers to applying forcriminal record suspensions
SDFA TESS
46
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
amp INCOME
14 Improve job quality andincome supports forprecariously employed BlackTorontonians
141 Continue to advocate to the Ontario government to raise social assistance rates TESS
Support Black-ownedbusinesses to better competeand thrive in Toronto 151
Target Black-owned businesses and social enterprises for outreach training and vendornetworking as part of the City of Toronto Social Procurement Program
EDC PMMD SDFA TESS
SUPPORTS 15 152 Support the start-up and incubation of Black-owned businesses EDC
153 Target development supports for businesses owned by Black women Francophones andpeople who were formerly incarcerated
EDC
47
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE
SYSTEM
16
Implement measures tostop racial profiling andover-policing of BlackTorontonians
161 Review communication strategies with communities of African descent about the ongoing elimination of carding as a policingpractice
TPS
162 Review the decision not to destroy the previously collected carding data TPS
163 Review police use of force protocols from an Anti-Black Racism Analysis TPS
164 Review police and community training including Community Crisis Response Programs to include use of force issues
SDFA TPS
165 Improve training to equip Law EnforcementOfficers with knowledge and skills to betterprotect and serve diverse people of Africandescent
SDFA TPS
166 Strengthen protocols for police response to people in crisis and report regularly on police-people in crisis interactions using an Anti-Black Racism Analysis
TPS
167 Communicate to the Province the need for improvements to policing and the justicesystem to better serve and protect people ofAfrican descent
TPS
17
Build a more transparentaccountable and effective police oversight systemto better serve Black Torontonians and to strengthen community trustin police to serve and protectthem
171 Mandate the collection and public reportingof race-based data for greater transparency TPS
172 Review and overhaul the Professional Standards for discipline at the Toronto Police Service
TPS
173
Strengthen community capacity to report and police capacity to investigate Islamophobictransphobic and anti-Black hate crimesthrough a Community Police Hate Crimes Advisory Committee
TPS
174
Convene a Community and Police Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Team (CAPE-ABR Team) of community and police leaders as a resource to inform the development and implementationof Actions related to policing and the justice system
TPS
18
Invest in alternative models that create better safety outcomes for BlackTorontonians 181
Work with community partners to build a coordinated strategy to advance policeaccountability and community capacityto respond to policing and the justicesystem including translation expansionand dissemination of ldquoknow your rightsrdquoinformation
TPS
182 Use an Anti-Black Racism Analysis to developand implement alternative models of policingthat focus on community engagement
TPS
183 Use effective alternative models to incarceration such as the use of restorative justice models developed and implementedwith elders in Black communities
TPS
48
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
Issue Recommendation Actions City of
Toronto
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
amp BLACK LEADERSHIP
19
Increase opportunitiesfor Black Torontonians to participate in City decision-making
191 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to City agencies boardsand commissions
Clerks EDHR SampCP SDFA
192 Outreach recruit and appoint diverse peopleof African descent to program-level advisoriesin City divisions
EDHR SDFA
193 Engage City staff of African descent toprovide guidance and leadership to the fullimplementation of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism
SDFA
194
Review and revise the Citys complaint processes to ensure that anti-Black racismis addressed at all phases and is alignedwith related City instruments policies andregulations
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
195 Advertise the Cityrsquos complaint processes incommunities of African descent
CCO Clerks EDHR HR SDFA SampCP
20
Make City spaces moreaccessible and welcoming toBlack Torontonians
201 Leverage City spaces to create a Blackcommunity hub in partnership with Blackservice providers
RES SDFA
202 Conduct an audit using an Anti-Black RacismAnalysis to evaluate City spaces and programs
Facilities Security SDFA PFR TPL
21
Invest in Black arts and culture 211 Report the economic impacts from City-
funded major community festivals EDC SDFA
212 Actively engage Black community advice toreview routes sites and security and increasethe sustainability of Black cultural festivals
EDC
213 Increase stable funding and supports for Blackarts and culture EDC
214 Outreach to diverse people of African descentto share information about City grantsprocesses for applications and deadlines
EDC SDFA TPH
22
Provide public education onissues of anti-Black racism in Toronto
221 Repeat and expand the public education campaign on Anti-Black Racism
EDHR Facilities HR Strat Comm SDFA
222 Provide public education on how anti-Blackracism negatively impacts the health ofpeople of African descent including being atrigger for mental illness
SDFA TPH
49
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
LEGEND City Divisions Agencies and Commissions
CCO Chief Corporate Officer ndash Customer ServiceCentre of Excellence SDFA Social Development Finance and
Administration
Clerks City Clerks Office Security Corporate Security
CS Childrens Services SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
EDC Economic Development and Culture Strat Comm Strategic Communications
EDHR Equity Diversity amp Human Rights SSHA Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Facilities Facilities Management TCHC Toronto Community Housing Corporation
HR Human Resources TESS Toronto Employment amp Social Services
PFR Parks Forestry and Recreation TPH Toronto Public Health
PMMD Purchasing and Material Management Division TPL Toronto Public Library
RES Real Estate Services TPS Toronto Police Service
SampCP Strategic amp Corporate Policy
50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is a strong example community-governmentcollaboration Black residents organizersadvocates and leaders within Torontorsquos Black communities worked with City staff todevelop a meaningful Action Plan to advancethe removal of systemic barriers for BlackTorontonians resulting a stronger Toronto for all
Special thanks to over 800 Black Torontonians who contributed to the Interim Action Plan in the 41 ldquokitchen table likerdquo CommunityConversations and citywide workshop inculturally appropriate spaces that were safefor Black people to sharebull Community Partner Agencies African-
Canadian Social Development CouncilBlackCAP Delta Family Resource Services
For Youth Initiative Jamaican Canadian AssociationCAFCAN METRAC Oasis Centre des Femmes Skills For ChangeTropicana Young amp Potential Fathers and Womenrsquos Health In Womenrsquos Hands
bull Community Groups and Organizations African Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Coalition Black Daddyrsquos ClubBlack Creek Community Health Centre Black Queer Youth Social Planning Toronto Taibu Community Health Centre and Yonge Street Mission
bull Community Conversation FacilitatorsAnimators Abdi Osman Aden Abebe Alix Mukonambi Brianna Lerato Mokwele Chrys Saget-Richard Duaa MohammedImanuel Warner-Brown Jessica Kirk Kemba Byam Kofi Morrison Lami Cooper Diallo Natasha Eck Pascale Diverlus Sean Harrison and Talena Jackson-Martineau
51
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
ACKNOWLEDG
EMENTS
Over fifty Black community activistsacademics advocates leaders organizersresidents and researchers made invaluable contributions of unwavering commitmenttime and expertise to finalize the action planthrough various channels
Thanks to the Expert Working Groups (EWG)bull Staff Learning Malika Mendez Moya
Teklu and Sizwe Alexandre bull Staff Recruitment and Advancement
Al Ramsey Dauna Jones-SimmondsSurranna Sandy and Amorell SaundersNrsquoDaw
bull Race-Based Data Cynthia Damba DrGrace-Edward Galabuzzi Dr Carl James Ikem Opira Notisha Massaquoi andShamara Baidoobonso
bull Youth Mentorship and Employment Amina Yassin Ammanuel Melles Brandon Hay Kofi Hope Sipho Kwaku Stephanie Hansen
bull Public Education Carolynn WilsonElisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Felicia Guy-Lynch Kemi Jacobs Layla Duale Nene Kafele Olivia Nuamah Shannon Ryan andTjireja Hipikuruka
bull Process Facilitators David Lewis-Peart Julet Allen Channel Grenaway and Tomee Sojourner-Campbell
bull Secretariat Support Alix Mukonambi Erika Standeven and Talena Jackson-Martineau
bull Thanks to Cityy staff from across 20 Citydivsisions and agencies
Thanks to Subject Matter Experts who worked directly with Division leadsAnnemarie Shrouder Anthony Morgan JayPitter Tana Turner and Quammie Williams
Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin Kola Iluyomade Lindis Collins-Bacchus Mohamed Shuriye OkeimaLawrence Shannon Ryan Verlia Stephens Dr Winston Husbands and Zannalyn Robest
Thanks to community members who madethemselves available to provide research and advice Ammanuel Melles AinaNia Ayorsquodele Angela Robertson Camille Orridge Debbie Douglas Ebenezer Fordjour GwynChapman Prince Bamidele Bajowa NeneKwasi Kafele Trevor McAlmont and Wendy Komiotis
Thanks to the ABR Community SelectionCommittee who contributed their time and expertise to the overseeing of the new BlackYouth Leadership Grant to Confront Anti-Black Racism which resulted from the Interim Acton Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism Ahmed Hussein Floydeen Charles-FridalIkem Opira Talena Jackson-Martineau and Dr Wesley Crichlow
Special thanks to following individuals Blackorganizations and businesses for your specificcontributions to building this Action Planbull ASL Interpreter Christopher Deslogesbull Caterers Brown Sugar Oven Dinerrsquos
Corner Service Co St Bess Products bull Community ConsultantProject
Manager Aina-Nia Ayorsquodele bull Graphic Designer Frantz Brent-Harris bull Photographers Nia Centre for the Arts
Denise Andrea Campbellbull Project Director Denise Andrea Campbellbull Public Education Campaign Partner
Ontario Council of Agencies ServingImmigrants (OCASI) BlackCAP
bull Researchers Alix Mukonambi Caroline Wai Erika Standeven Suelyn Knight
bull Transcribers Edna Ali Keisha StLouis-McBurnie Natasha Allen Saeed
Thanks to Terminology Focus Group Mohamed members Brianna Mokewele Clara bull Writer - Community Profiles Neil Ganemtore Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox Armstrong
52
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION 1 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence Services Hate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
2 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
3 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcys en201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
4 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
5 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
6 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
CHILDREN amp YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 7 Ministry of Children and Youth Services Newsroom Ontariorsquos Black Youth Action Plan Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario March 7 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpsnewsontariocamcysen201703ontarios-black-youth-action-planhtml
8 Contenta C Monsebraaten L and Rankin J CAS study reveals stark racial disparities forblacks aboriginals The Toronto Star June 23 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswwwthestarcomnewscanada20160623cas-study-reveals-stark-racial-disparities-for-blacks-aboriginalshtml
9 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
10 Ministry of Children and Youth Services 2017
53
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54
REFERENCES
HEALTH amp COMMUNITY SERVICES 11 Toronto Public Health Racialization and Health Inequities in Toronto October 2013 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwtorontocalegdocsmmis2013hlbgrd backgroundfile-62904pdf
JOB OPPORTUNITIES amp INCOME SUPPORTS 12 Morgan A ldquoThe Blackening Margins of Multiculturalismrdquo ACLCrsquos Feb 2016 United Nations Report on the Economic Social and Cultural Rights of African Canadians African Canadian LegalClinic Toronto Ontario 2016
13 Morgan A 2016
14 Statistics Canada 2011 National Household Survey Data Tables Statistics Canada Catalogue no 99-012-X2011038
15 Statistics Canada 2016 Census of Population Statistics Canada Catalogue no 98-400-X2016211
16 Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Statement to the media by the United Nationsrsquo Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on the conclusion of its official visit to Canada 17-21 October 2016 Office of the United Nations High Commissioner forHuman Rights (OHCHR) 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwohchrorgENNewsEvents PagesDisplayNewsaspxNewsID=20732ampLangID=E
POLICING amp THE JUSTICE SYSTEM 17 Toronto Police Services 2016 Annual HateBias Crime Statistical Report Intelligence ServicesHate Crime Unit Toronto Police Services December 2016 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpswww torontopoliceoncapublicationsfilesreports2016hatecrimereportpdf
18 Xing L Hate crime reports up arrests down in 2016 Toronto police say CBC March 17 2017 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwcbccanewscanadatorontohate-crime-reports-up-arrests-down-in-2016-toronto-police-say-14029286
19 McIntyre C Canada has a Black Incarceration Problem Torontoistcom April 21 2016Retrieved May 25 2017 httptorontoistcom201604african-canadian-prison-population
20 Office of the Correctional Investigator A Case Study of Diversity in Corrections The Black Inmate Experience in Federal Penitentiaries Final Report Government of Canada 2014 Retrieved May 25 2017 httpwwwoci-becgccacntrptoth-autoth-aut20131126-engaspx
21 Office of the Correctional Investigator 2014
54