Happy African Heritage and Black History Month!

On February 7 our Black Employee Network (BEN), Ujima Committee and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion branch held an interactive gathering at our building for staff and foster caregivers to explore the history, culture, and resilience of the African Diaspora. Many thanks to all of the teams who help us to create spaces for these learning opportunities and dialogue as we continue to build a future rooted in diversity, respect, and unity. Shout-out to Hello Hair for sharing with us the fundamentals of natural hair care and the cultural significance and beauty behind it.

Together with our community partners we are able to provide wraparound service supports that honour the culture and traditions of the children, youth and families we serve. Programs like Akoma help those remain connected to their heritage while providing tools and resources that are tailored to what they need to thrive and succeed. Special thank you to Free For All Community Services, BLACK Community Action Network of PEEL and Roots Community Services Inc. for your incredible support. These partnerships help to equip our staff with valuable information, resources and trainings, which helps them to support our families. Through understanding their different religious and cultural backgrounds, we can provide more sensitive and appropriate assistance to families, and work together to build a better future for the children and youth we serve.

This month reminds us of the resilience, brilliance, and contributions of Black communities - past, present, and future. Together we are amplifying voices, embracing learning and continuing the work of building an inclusive and equitable society.