The Canadian Association of Black Journalists
By Priscilla Wiredu The Canadian Association of Black Journalists (CABJ), established in 1996, is on a mission to increase a racially-diverse representation via education and inspiration. CABJ is focused on advocating for diversity in Canadian media, increasing their membership base across Canada, and offering professional opportunities, like hands-on workshops, for Black journalists and content creators. Programs The CABJ offers five programs to Black individuals seeking to start careers in media. J-School Noire Launched in Halifax in February 2020, J-School Noireis a transformational workshop that teaches students key skills including, but not limited to, hands-on shooting, editing, podcasting, writing, and interviewing. The CABJ pairs students who complete the J-School Noire with senior journalists for a year-long mentorship to launch their media careers. CABJ on Campus CABJ amplifies the voices of Black students in J-School campuses across Canada, in both the student body and the community. CABJ wishes to help students create a stronger andsturdier presence on campuses, as they produce their content, host events, and interact with nearby communities to inspire more Black youth to get into journalism and content creation. CABJ Connects CABJ provides an application form to those seeking a network in which they can find job opportunities, connections, and resources. Black media professionals can grow their portfolios, network, and get recognized by potential employers. CABJ Media Startup Bootcamp A three-week boot camp tailored to meet the needs of newly hired Black journalists working outside of Canadian newsrooms. This boot camp teaches courses designed by and taught to Black journalists. They have a list of past grant recipients and their achievements after graduating from the camp. Lifeline During the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, CABJ reached out to members about any mental health resources they had access to in their workplaces. Many said no such services existed for them. The CABJ collaborated with Carole Sandy, a Toronto-based Black counselor to work on culturally sensitive initiatives and support for Black journalists. CABJ’s LifeLine Healing Circles were officially introduced in May of 2021, where Sandy hosted monthly sessions for Black journalists in search of a safe space to talk about their issues and the help they need. Sessions are 60 minutes and hosted by Sandy. Membership is not required to join. Memberships The CABJ welcomes all Canadian-based Black media professionals for a membership with the association. Interested individuals must commit to a membership for a minimum of 12 months. Different types of membership have specific eligibility requirements. Full Membership Open to all Black journalists residing in Canada for $75 a year or $6.25 per month for 12 months. Freelance/emerging journalists Open to all Black freelancers who reside in Canada with less than five years of experience for $55 a year or $4.58 per month for 12 months. Alumni For retired/former Black journalists who are Canadian residentsand founding members of the CABJ at $65 a year or $5.42 per month for 12 months. Students Open to those actively enrolled in Black journalism or media studies. Students must attend an accredited Canadian university or college institution. Student memberships cost $40 a year or $3.33 per month for 12 months. Media-related professionals Open to Black professionals working in public relations, advocacy, communications, blogging/vlogging, and filmmaking for a yearly $65 or $5.42 per month for 12 months. Community journalists Open to everyday members of the Black Community who wish to launch their own platform and tell stories about where they live. This membership costs a yearly $55 or $4.58 per month for 12 months. Lifetime Membership Open to all Black journalists who will be billed $1500 only once. Hall of Fame/Black-owned media The CABJ is set to help represent Black people in the media and to tell their stories. They have a Black-owned media webpage.The CABJworks highlight Black inventions and modern Black culture to Black history and other forms of representation. Contact Contact the CABJ through the association’s website to learn more about the work they’redoing to diversify newsrooms, create a broader job market for Black media professionals, and encourage a new generation of young Black aspiring journalists in Canada.
The Black Youth Helpline
By Priscilla Wiredu A 2023 study from Black Mental Health Canada showed that 38.3 percent of Black Canadians dealing with mental health issues “used mental health services compared with 50.8 percent of white Canadians.” A 2018 survey also showed that 60 percent of Black Canadians would be more willing to use mental health services with a Black mental health professional. Of the Black Canadians who participated in the survey, 35.4 percent were experiencing significant psychological distress and 34.2 percent never sought out mental health services. Overall, 95.1 per cent felt that access to mental health services for Black Canadians was an issue that needed to be addressed. Factors that inform these statistics include unemployment rates in the Black community, longer wait times, and challenges in finding a physician. There needs to be a free, online support community for Black Canadians, particularly, youth, who can safely access the resources they need for their mental health. Enter the Black Youth Helpline. What is the Black Youth Helpline? The Black Youth Helpline’s (BYH) first location opened in Manitoba in September 1992 and consisted of community volunteers. Almost 11 years later, the first Ontario location was launched in March 2003. The Black Youth Helpline was created in response to a community-based project from Youth for Youth for their school. The results of the assignment stretched out to shopping malls, streets, and other places in Manitoba urging youth out of school for their return into the education system. At the time, Youth for Youth faced many challenges in starting an active initiative for Black mental health — they had only one Black mental health professional who was swamped with calls from Black youth about their problems. Further research has shown that challenges in schools and culture/professional school-based support systems lead to significant mental health stress. Such findings helped shape the BYH program into what it is today. Now nationwide, BYH has two core foundations: the resilience of its community and volunteers, and the Canadian people and its values. Black Youth Helpline’s core values include: Services BYH has an abundance ofservices available to anyone in need. As one example, they offer Multicultural Youth Helpline & Services, a helpline that serves as a first contact for BYH’s professional services for youth, families, school districts, and other youth-serving partners. Services are offered in many languages. Stay in School Initiatives These initiatives help build healthy relationships between schools, families, and communities by identifying the root causes of the issues and challenges at hand. Their main focuses are helping youth succeed in school, communicating and addressing issues in the school system, and supporting schools with concerns of diverse student populations. Parent & Family Support BYH helps families understand the challenges that confront their children and youth. Support includes development counselling, coaching, parental guidance, community school consultations, and community development initiatives. Systems Navigation Assistance This assistance allows individuals and families to seek appropriate professional health services for early, pre-crisis support. Community initiatives BYH also offers community programs and initiatives in Black communities, namely, Effective Parenting, The Role of Mothers in Youth Violence Prevention, Fresh Minds: A Focus on Wellness, The Maxwell Project, and Women’s Development. Getting Involved Volunteering Volunteers are key to the success of the BYH since its origins from volunteering. Interested volunteers and partners can fill out anapplication form and send it to info@blackyouth.ca. Faith-Based Partnerships Churches and other faith-based organisations also play an integral part in the work of the Black Youth Helpline organisation. They lead youth outreach, provide support and guidance, and help deliver health education initiatives. These organisations can contact BYH throughhere. Donations BYH is a registered charitable, not-for-profit organisation. Donations are welcome and tax deductible. BYH appreciates the support of all its financial partners. Ways to donate are: E-TRANSFER Send to info@blackyouth.ca WIRE TRANSFER Email info@blackyouth.ca for wire transfer information CHEQUE Make payable to Black Youth Helpline Mail to 1111 Finch Ave West, Suite 411, Toronto, ON, M3J 2E5 ONLINE Donate online at CanadaHelps.org Black Youth Helpline is available for marginalised communities to get the help they need. For anyone dealing with mental health issues, feel free to contact the Black Youth Helpline at: Call 416-285-9944 Toll Free 1-833-294-8650 info@blackyouth.ca Everyday 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.m
The Journey Towards Inclusivity in Learning Environments
By: Lavanya Kathirgamanathan There has been a growing recognition of the need for inclusivity in educational settings, particularly, for Black students. To create an inclusive learning environment, a multifaceted approach is needed to address systemic barriers to learning. Promoting diversity fosters an atmosphere where all students might feel valued and looked after. Systemic barriers are institutionalized in educational systems, and often manifest in discriminatory policies and practices. One of the reasons for systemic barriers is cultural bias. Harvard and Yale University made revisions to their admission policies to diversify their student bodies. This was something that has not been looked at for almost a decade. The efforts they are taking involve outreach programs to communities that are underrepresented, scholarships to those in financial need, and a re-evaluation of their standardized testing criteria – which have historically been a disadvantage to Black students. Training programs on cultural awareness can significantly impact teachers’ abilities to support Black students. According to a study done by the American Psychological Association, culturally responsive practices can improve the academic outcomes and psychological well-being of minority students. Schools are encouraged to integrate these practices into their development programs to foster an inclusive learning environment for their students. Support networks also play important roles in the academic and social success of Black students. Support networks, like mentorship programs, can provide academic guidance and career advice. The National Black Student Union provides Black students with role models and advisors who understand their challenges. This contributes to a sense of belonging and provides emotional support. An inclusive curriculum that reflects on the history, the cultures, and the contributions of Black individuals also helps nurture a sense of belonging among Black students. Black Lives Matter at School, a curriculum reform effort, advocates for the incorporation of Black culture in standard curriculum. This initiative ensures that Black students see themselves represented within the education system. The only successful initiative implemented to create more of an inclusive environment was through the University of Toronto’s Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO). ARCDO launched a strategy that includes anti-racism training, policy reviews, and the establishment of a program called Equity Studies. This resulted in increased awareness and action towards inclusivity within the university community. Creating an inclusive environment for Black students is an ongoing journey. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting cultural knowledge, schools can create an atmosphere where Black students feel valued and empowered to achieve their full educational potential.
Empowering The Next Generation: Black-led Tutoring Programs That Are Making a Difference
By Lavanya Kathirgamanathan Over the past few years, Black-led tutoring programs have become pivotal forces in closing the education gap for Black youth. These tutoring programs are often rooted in communication, making a profound impact on the students’ lives as they foster academic excellence. Black-led tutoring programs are designed to address challenges unique to Black students in the education system. These programs offer them a sense of belonging and cultural affirmation that often lacks in traditional educational school settings. According to The National Centre for Education Statistics, Black students are more likely to attend under-resourced schools. This can lead to lower academic achievements and higher dropout rates within the system. Tutoring programs led by Black educators and mentors provide Black students with tailored support and more encouragement regardless of the barriers they face. One such program is Harlem Children’s Zone. Harlem Children’s Zone, also known as HCZ, provides educational and social services to children and families who live in Harlem. HCZ has significantly helped students struggling with math and reading. A study conducted by Brookings Institution shows that students in this program have outperformed their peers in standardized tests, demonstrating the effectiveness of the program itself. The impact of Black-led tutoring programs goes beyond academic achievement. These programs play an important role in boosting students’ self-esteem and sense of cultural pride. When students see educators and mentors that look like them, they may have more of a positive learning experience. These recognizable educators and mentors act as role models who motivate students to succeed. This is essential in combating the negative stereotypes, challenging the low expectations often placed on Black students, and building a community for them. Education is an important tool for empowerment. When you support and expand Black-led tutoring programs, we can ensure that every Black child has an opportunity to achieve their full potential.
The Canadian Black Scientists Network

The Canadian Black Scientists Network By: Priscilla Wiredu An infinitude of Afrocentric establishments is assembled to empower Black people to follow their academic interests and pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). These coalitions aim to elevate, visualize, celebrate, and connect like-minded Black individuals to transform the standard of science across Canada and the world. These establishments provide an avenue of success that allow Black people to put forth their ideas and share them with a community that is accepting and ready to make technological advancements in various industries. The Canadian Black Scientists Network is one of these recognized establishments. What Is the Canadian Black Scientists Network? (CBSN) The Canadian Black Scientists Network is a national federation of Black people who possess or are interested in pursuing higher education in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine/Health (STEMM). CBSN’s senior leaders and allies have demonstrated devotion to the call to action for further Black inclusion among these industries. The demand for new insight and ideas among people of colour require a level of acceptance to critically assess different experiences useful for innovation. In July 2020, the CBSN emerged on behalf of the inaugural President and the University of Toronto’s Black Research Network member Madyianne Andrade. The network has over 500 members who support the idea to provide robust opportunities for Black academics, graduates, volunteers, research administrators, and practitioners in STEM. These graduates are able to put forth their academic experience in a rigorous setting that prepares them for complex work in the real world. Beyond the scope of lectures, the network provides new opportunities that allow Black people to engage in conferences, policy development, and panels. CBSN emerged to include the intersectional identities of Black Canadians, Black people who reside in Canada, and Black Canadians living abroad. The network aims to create a safe space and connectivity amongst its members, along with contributing programs and strategic directions they value. The Canadian Black Scientists Network caters to those who identify as Black and descendants of Black Africans. They also partner with other organizations that aim to dismantle discriminatory challenges and barriers in STEM that others have faced. They fight to address the harsh realities of racism and discriminatory practices to create a more equitable society for all Canadians. Events CBSN holds regional nodes, which are networking and recruiting opportunities across Canada. Depending on one’s location, they offer resources such as regional programs and other advanced opportunities for people. Both nodes are supported by the network’s national office. Every year, the Canadian Black Scientists Network hosts a Canadian Black Scientists Network Youth regional science fair in partnership with Dalhousie University and Imhotep’s Legacy Academy. This ensures that there is participation among the youth by partnering with educational institutions. The convenience of these science fairs allows the youth to be prepared and seek new ventures. A rundown of their qualifications helps interested students present their work and they have the opportunity to be judged in final competitions during a five-month period. Those who did not win the finals can receive a cash prize or mentorship opportunity. It is a tremendous opportunity for Black youth to engage in STEM and to network with other like-minded students. CBSN also has many partners and sponsors for their events. They range from STEM seminars about available scholarships and guest speakers at their 2024 Annual Black Excellence in STEM Conference. They consist of panels, career and science fairs, networking and keynote opportunities, and an awards show as its closing ceremony. Their events calendar provides up-to-date information about upcoming events. BE-STEMM Beyond Borders The BE-STEM Beyond Borders is an initiative directed by the University of Calgary’s professor Jennifer Adams that cultivates cross-border collaborations and sharing practices that address racial equity in STEM. Funded by public diplomacy from the United States Embassy and Consulates in Canada, working group members facilitate dialogues about ways to ensure racial equity in Leadership, Policy, Post-Secondary Education, and K-University Pathways. BE-STEM Beyond Borders’ mission is to effectively compare and contrast policy environments in North America, as well as: Conduct an investigative literature review of their area of expertise and theme Oversee the data and information required for their projects, unavailable in Canada Integrate promising practices and policy recommendations Keep track of a timeline of achieved equity Memberships To become a member of CBSN, an individual will have access to an online membership form that should be filled out along with an additional form to nominate an ally to join the network. CBSN also offers a Membership Program in which members can connect to mentors, mentees, and peers who seek guidance from Black-identifying individuals who are involved or interested in pursuing STEM careers, living in Canada or abroad. The program hopes to foster growth and supportive relationships of Black STEM professionals in Canada. CBSN is currently offering opportunities to work with external partners that can connect undergraduate and high school students with space and pilot programs. They also have directories for CBSN members, the steering committee, and elected allies. Contact The Canadian Black Scientists Network has a number of programs that align with its mission and core values. They are always seeking intellectual Black people regardless of their age, gender, or sexuality to help their organization grow with the support of interested Canadians. They offer a contact form for those wishing to inquire about any opportunities, events, or information about the organization. Their social media is listed below: CBSN Instagram CBSN Twitter CBSN Facebook The CBSN fights to change the face of science in Canada. Their overall goal is to increase the flow of Black youth into STEM career paths and learning opportunities.
Mental Health Resources for Black Communities in Canada

By: Lavanya Kathirgamanathan Films provide an escape from reality among its viewers. Films exemplify life issues and include topics that everyone can relate to whether that is relationships, family, work, trauma, and health. Spike Lee is a renowned filmmaker who uses his platform to explore thought-provoking themes throughout his films. A common plot Lee likes to explore are issues pertaining to Black people such as racism, colourism, stigmas surrounding interracial relationships, and injustices within the system. Malcolm X, Crooklynn, She’s Gotta Have It and Jungle Fever are some of the most popular Spike Lee films. School Daze is another outstanding film directed and written by Lee. Based on his experiences growing up as a student attending Morehouse College, the 1988 film touches on colourism, texturism, activism, and hazing while students navigate through their life at Mission College, a fictional-historical Black college. Featured in this film are well-known actors and actresses including: Laurence Fishbourne, Giancarlo Esposito, Tish Cambell, Samuel L. Jackson, Jasmine Guy and Lee. 35 years later, and the themes the film navigates are still relevant over social media. Outlined are some of the most prevalent issues School Daze touches on: Activism Activism is a form of collective action that aims to resist social injustices targeted towards racialized communities that experience racism, sexual harassment, and arbitrary violence. Movements such as the Civil Rights Movement and Feminism Movement are examples of movements that have a shared interest to fight against oppression. Dap, the film’s protagonist, is a Morehouse student and young activist who wants to fight for equal treatment on behalf of everyone within the Black diaspora. The character is introduced when his boycott of apartheid in South Africa is interrupted. His main goal is to mobilize students and faculty to participate in a movement against the Apartheid. Although most students are reluctant to participate due to being expelled, Dap manages to mobilize support and stand up for their freedom. Just like every collective action movement, there are struggles and challenges that occur along the way. However, once people recognize the end-goal, it can help others realize what cause people are fighting for. Hazing Sororities and fraternities are supposed to bring people together and provide a sense of belonging for students as they navigate their journey through post-secondary school. Joining a sorority or a fraternity can sometimes come with downsides. Some pledges are forced to go through hazing rituals that can be humiliating or dangerous. There have been many hazing incidents that have led to serious injuries or death. Half-Pint, who is illustrated as Dap’s cousin, wants to join the Gamma Phi Gamma fraternity. He objects to his cousin’s views who believes those who join one are sellouts. Half-Pint and the other pledges are forced to fish out rotting bananas from a toilet with their hands, to imitate dogs. Half-Pint was also challenged to sleep with the leader’s girlfriend. Fraternities and sororities can have many positive outcomes. However, joining one should not put one’s health, reputation, or life at risk. The movie may have aired 35 years ago, but the issues the film addresses are still relevant in today’s society. People continue to be exploited for making colourist and/or texturist comments. Injustices are still rampant and pledges at post-secondary schools are still being subjected to hazing rituals. However, the film’s message is still powerful and shows viewers that there is hope to break free from conforming to damaging school traditions.
Resources in Toronto that support the Black Community

By: Lavanya Kathirgamanathan
Programs that support Black student success and excellence

By: Lavanya Kathirgamanathan
Fighting the stigma of racialized mental health: The Black Mental Health Alliance

By: Priscilla Wiredu
Black Health Matters: What is it?

By: Lavanya Kathirgamanathan