[Maureen]

I am now doing the course ending July/22 so first time on this virtual cafe platform- or a virtual platform period! Better late than never. Previous comments- ideally include end “users” (where did we come up with that word? better to say “partners”- gotta get this reciprocal language going!- systemic bias in epi and funding structures no doubt) in the program development is fundamental. And incredibly difficult for such patchwork community orgs in social and human services in communities. But we need to try! I also find, as per Monique, “little by little bit by bit”, as I learn, that I can reflect on my practice, then maybe influence others etc… the flutter of a butterflys’ wings can change the world. I want to believe that !

[Tami]

As a ww I feel that Black youth should be a part of this process right from the first step!! This is their expertise and it should be designed by them, for them.

[Natalie]

I really appreciate your reflections here, Maureen! I am a big ‘word person’ and appreciate your invitation to use more reciprocal language, as I’ve yet to find a word/term that feels more equitable in nearly 15 years of youth work! I agree that the voices of those directly impacted by service is lacking, if at all present, and often is framed by organizations as an added ‘task’ or ‘burden’ for which they cannot provide the resources – financial or otherwise – to support, which is shameful. If we want to envision something new, how can we do it without those we claim to be walking alongside? If we want to be responsive and affirming, how do we do it without speaking with those we purport to affirm? This is not to suggest that we can essentialize Black youth, as they are certainly not a monolith, but to not attempt to engage them in processes of program visioning, design and implementation is to miss a significant opportunity at doing this differently and more likely, an opportunity to do more of the same. Thanks again for helping me dig a big deeper on my own thoughts.

[YouthREX- Kamau]

I believe to pro-actively create pathways to inclusion within the youth sector there must be a concerted effort to engage with a diversity of races, experiences, and perspectives, in the developmental process of programs. Designing pathways to inclusion requires inclusion in the program development process.

[Monique]

I feel like this needs to start with listening to Black youth, before any planning can begin. What does this mean to them? But this also needs to be paired with on-going intentional daily work of those who work with those youth (or for youth-serving organizations), to make sure that they are going in to the work with the mindset of meeting with youth in partnership, that they are looking at the youth with a strengths-based focus, that they are doing the anti-oppressive learning and unlearning regularly (and self-reflection) to check in before entering the room. I think it’s going to happen in little moments where youth identify they feel safe and valued with a caring adult, in their classroom where they feel represented and respected, in their school where they feel connected and excited and engaged, and also in big moments where people are willing to speak up for change and actively work to dismantle white supremacy, to change the ways their institutions operate. I know there are a lot of groups already doing this work, so I think we need to keep talking and sharing with each other, to try to shift what is considered “the way things are done”.

[Tobin]

I think this question almost answers itself. First, let’s dream and envision programs and services that support Black young people in their wholeness and that are anti-racist and anti-oppressive. Then, let’s begin strategizing, finding supports/resources that align with this vision, and pro-actively go about putting the vision into reality, while keeping in mind there will be challenges and resistance along the way. Finally, if we fail, know that the effort is crucial in and of itself. But if we succeed, watch out. 🙂

[Shannon]

I really love the idea of dreaming you have expressed here, Tobin! I think society and mainstream media has situated Black youth within such a deficit-based, damaged-centred framework, to use Eve Tuck’s idea in Suspending Damage, that we often forget that it IS possible to think about things differently and in turn, do things differently.

The “good enough” that Black youth are often offered in terms of services is not, in fact good enough and it requires a radical shift in thinking, which as you mentioned, starts with dreaming up new possibilities. This, I believe, requires youth participation, community involvement and family inclusion. We can’t dream of supports without dreaming with those the programs are supposedly designed for. We also can’t dream in the same way we do for every other people group. The plight of Black folk in Canada is much different than other people groups, and thus programs dreamt of may look unorthodox and non-traditional and that is okay. Perhaps then they, the programs, might actually meet needs and not simply be a tick on a tokenistic checklist.

[Alysha]

Anti-Black racism training for educators and guidance counselors, and increased hiring of Black folks in these positions as well as leadership positions in schools which can create campaigns promoting Black excellence and encourage youth to strive for challenging course loads. Following interests of Black youth and providing them with the resources to create and lead communities like clubs.

[Yasmine]

In my opinion, to pro-actively design pathways to inclusion in the youth sector it requires active allyship. By this, I do not mean just non-Black people, I am including Black non-youths as well because youth have specific issues and are dependent to those who are of young-middle aged adulthood.

First, educating oneself on the needs and gaps is required, but creating plans to address these issues is important. This could be creating “action teams” that include youth in the planning of how to make these pathways inclusive. Having groups can not only serve as data collection, but as the last lecture stated, it can put action to the research. These groups could create a safe forum for them to express their concerns, involves youth in the development of action plans, and also provides them with teamwork/leadership skills building in the process.

Second, us adults need to use our networks or create networks of support for these youth. If you know of or are creating a scholarship, share it with your network to connect to these youth. Often times economic, social or other factors may impact youth’s access to these opportunities or may limit their knowledge of them. Casting a network can close those gaps for youth.

[Ciara-Joy]

In my opinion I believe that the world needs to become more educated. Black youth shouldn’t face any gaps or service needs. I believe that in order to make it happen instead of dreaming about programs and services here black youth are not experiencing anti-Black racism, is to provide these programs and services. Provide education to community workers, teachers, etc.

[Natasha]

I am a black educator (MA, Mdiv in progress) in the Catholic board in the region of peel and I have thoroughly enjoyed the lectures and discussions! We recently had Jean Augustine over at my school for BHM and I have just launched a Black Students Association with student led executive positions ( for Blk students and their friends i.e. allies). Capacity building is an important component of dismantling ABR. Would anyone from our group here be interested in sharing email addresses and starting a email group?? Resources sharing, networking etc? Or any other ideas that come to mind? 😊😊😊👍🏾🙏🏽

[Sarah]

Hi Natasha,

I am a white educator in the pdsb. Currently working on a masters in equity. I would love to connect. Here is my email sarah.rossi@peelsb.com

[Angeli]

I agree. We do things but we don’t compensate people for their time. Also another way to have pathways to inclusion is to focus programs on their needs. we create alot of programs and are trying to improve our programming but we need to ensure that these are tailored for their needs.

[Shannon]

I agree with this sentiment, Camilla. I will add that I think it’s important to ensure that, when placing Black youth at the center of program design, we are making an effort to ensure the representation of diverse Black youth, recognizing that they may have a range of lives and experiences (and we are not being diverse simply by virtue of including Black youth). Relatedly, I think it is always important to recognize the barriers to engagement that exist for many of the most intersectional folks, i.e. perhaps Black youth from low-income families who are not well-connected to the system & may not have the capacity to participate in unpaid/volunteer labour. Where possible, I feel that it is critical to perform outreach & make accommodations accordingly.

[Camilla Persaud –]

We can proactively design pathways for inclusion in the youth sector by having Black youth at the center. Let their voice and choice be the heart of conversations and decision making. Allow them to ask questions and create a space for critical dialogue. Black youth should be encouraged to create a culture where they work together to define personal & community goals for how they will learn more about the sectors, express ideas and alternatives about the sectors, create strategies and provide feedback which will challenge themselves throughout the process. They should create their own criteria to evaluate and assess their success and hold each other accountable.

[Joe]

I agree with Brody’s comment below.

I think one of the best ways to ensure we are designing inclusive programs and services for marginalized youth groups is to involve marginalized youth groups in the development and operations of programs and services.

Individuals can be asked to participate as stakeholders and in project groups (boards, committees, focus groups, etc.) for the programs and services being developed/run. By having marginalized youth participate in boards, committees and focus groups as subject matter experts and stakeholders, we can prevent otherwise prominent gaps in knowledge, lived experience and requirements.

[Brody]

I think we all need to work together with our services – this would include police services, community resources such as Why Not City Youth Missions etc, and on top of that, actually listening to the voices of Black youths. There is no greater feedback than the group that is affected. So providing a way for them to provide their feedback and include them would be ideal.

[Camila]

It would be a dream to have programs that include the voice of Black youth from beginning to end. Include their voices when we are in the process of identifying the needs, and let’s not interpret what they are trying to say. Have that voice be the driving force. Have young people decide what they require of the adults present (if any), what will make the spaces where the programs take place affirming to their identities and lived experiences. Who is it that they need in those spaces. Have them lead the outcomes and goals, and have them evaluate the effectiveness of what was been co-created. Only then, in my opinion, would we authentically know if we are being responsive, and not just responsible.

[veronique]

Il important de leur donner une voix réelle et de la prendre en considération. Je crois qu’en établissant de petits groupes d’élèves dans les école où ils se sentiront écouter, où on donnera une valeur à leur façon de penser, on pourra plus concrètement agir auprès de ces jeunes et ainsi changer tranquillement les choses.

[REX]

Absolument, merci pour le partage.

[YouthREX- Kamau]

In a world where black youth aren’t experiencing anti-black racism it would be imperative that we understand anti-oppressive practices and create an environment where no youth feels inferior based on their race. I believe that would start with creating an equitable environment that allocates the necessary education and wellness resources for each youth based on their needs. The most important step in this process would be listening to youth and allowing their voices to be heard to ensure that their needs are properly understood.

[April]

I agree with the youth voice being most important in planning for Black youth. I am new to my current role, but have been learning about a youth led group at one of the high schools. This group is in tune with the current happenings at their school, they are united to call out Anti-Black racism. Our role is to support their group through listening and advocating for change through the use of privilege and power.

[Kathe]

ICYMI, check out this conversation that @cyrilcromwell and I hosted about the importance of literacy learning that centres the cultures, histories, and identities of Black communities. This event was presented with The Reading Partnership on International Literacy Day, showcasing their literacy-focused program for children and families in the Kingston-Galloway-Orton Park neighbourhood of Scarborough, as well as the work of Black Girl’s Magazine, created by and for Black girls by Black Youth Write. We also featured an expert panel of insightful special guests and two amazing performances from award-winning spoken word artist, writer, and facilitator Amoya Reé. You can now watch and share the recording from our Knowledge Hub. 😄

[Shelly]

I think a collaborative effort between health, justice, education sectors, etc. needs to holistically work with Black youth and their families and communities to envision a new outlook on programs and services. Rather than telling them what they need, or pointing out weakness and faults, it would start with a conversation, listening and learning from the individuals and the communities themselves, to revision the work that needs to be done. I think the course title says it all – we need to centre Black youth, families and communities in these conversations and begin to heal the effects of racism and colonialism that have impacted them for centuries. Let them guide the work that they feel needs to be done, and then shape all the programming and services around that discussion and direction.

[Tyler]

Increased leadership involvement in various youth sectors (Justice, Protection, etc) by Black youth/adults who have been through these systems.

[Victoria]

Including black youth and families voices in planning and well as a continued commitment to reviews and updates including black youth and families.

[Jenny]

Including Black youth in their own service development will empower the youth accessing services and undoubtedly reach more Black youth in the process. It will also be an opportunity for those who have historically made decisions about the needs of Black youth (potentially as people who have never been a Black youth) to gain clear knowledge of what Black youth are actually looking for in accessing services and break down barriers they may not have been aware were there.

[Shelly]

I totally agree with you Jenny….put the youth in control of the conversation and watch transformation guide the changes that need to be made for these individuals, families and communities.

Shelly

[Rachelle]

There is so much good info here. I strongly believe that organizations need to include local Black youth in planning and evaluating programs. Youth should be compensated for their time as well with volunteer hours or monetary compensation. If I am really dreaming about this, I envision that their participation should also lead to other opportunities for growth, e.g. part-time work, reference letters and mentorship. I would like to see different pathways created for youth through multiple programs.

[Jessica]

I completely agree! Having local Youth Advisory Councils or Committees benefits both the organization and the youth involved. Not only does this include youth voices and perspectives in the organization’s work, but this also equips youth with skills, experiences and support to succeed moving forward.

[Shelly]

Double yes to all that you just said.

Shelly

[Andrea]

YES!

Pathways created by youth, for youth and that support youth!

[Danielle]

To echo some of the comments already mentioned I think it is important to provide safe and secure spaces for these youth where they feel heard, their strengths are validated, and their experiences can be acknowledged. In addition, I also believe those working with youth also need to be provided with further education in order to engage with these youth in a way that provides them with a sense of empowerment and support.

[Shannon]

Great points! Creating safe spaces, and actively listening to the experiences of black youth is vital. To add, in looking at the education system, finding ways to allow our black youth a chance to see themselves in the curriculum will help keep them engaged, and feel valued in their learning.

[Nicole]

Completely agree! I do think there needs to be a change in curriculum and how information is delivered. I would like to see a shift in this and for students to feel like they are represented in what is being taught. It takes a community to create this change. I have seen some really positive shifts but we are not there yet. There is A LOT that needs to be re-evaluated.

[Poonam]

Love the points mentioned here! It is our duty to provide children and youth with a safe and inclusive space to share their experiences, celebrate their successes and have a sense of belonging. We should really get to know each and every individual so we are able to provide them with the resources and tools they need to achieve their goals in life.

[Joanne]

I agree. The institutions use to come up with plans to address anti-black racism in schools. But we need to ask the black youth in our schools and actively listen to what they have to say. We need to stop being afraid that the conversations will get emotionally charged and applaud when they do. Only then are we truly hearing the voice of black youth. Listening is the first step, taking action is the next one. Listen to and implement the suggestions the black youth have. Only then will we see transformation in our schools that supports black youth.

[Shelly]

Absolutely agree with both of you!

[Raven]

https://youthrex.com/webinar/opening-up-creating-healing-spaces-for-young-black-men/?post_type=library-post&p=9259

I recently finished watching this webinar and I encourage everyone to check it out. It was very insightful and the video by Soch Nwakaeza & Eben Odonkor was very impressive. I feel like it really shed light on the generalized perceptions young black men have of their lives.

[Raven]

Something I just wanted to highlight from the organization that I work at. They recently conducted a one time focus group for the clients in our live in treatment center to get a clear understanding of what the actual clients would benefit from in all aspects of the organization. I felt that this was a great example of that whole concept of actively listening to youth and implmenting policies and programmings that pertain to the youth it’s directed to.

[Raven]

I’m reflecting on the ways in which my workplace can better encourage people of colour to seek our treatment services. I work at a youth treatment center where we provide youth with therapeutic/basic needs. I am definitely open to suggestions others may have on how I can take part in encouraging Black youth to become more engaged in these programs.

[Mercedes]

Great replies so far. A few notes to add.

1. More Afrocentric training/programs in general, is beneficial and necessary; in addition to ABR training. Know your past (good and bad) and use it to shape your future. I took the “Rights of Passage” program with woodgreen in high school and wish those same experiences (ex traveling to Ghana) and learning about ones “roots” for every black person. We have to understand our history and develop PRIDE!

1b. I believe Afrocentric training can and should start at younger ages (elementary school has history lessons, our history should be a part of this). Yes, high school is a great start but we can all agree, youth are recognizing ABR earlier and earlier. If they can recognize ABR, they can also be taught pro-black tips and black pride etc.

1c Regarding the ABR, we even see little kids at protests with ABR signs. We shouldn’t assume they aren’t ready; instead engage in more open dialogue and even seek consent to discuss certain topics. I know it can be seen as “taking away their innocence” but I believe if framed properly, by professionals it can be done safely.

2. I often see people say “to accomplish these things we must ‘work with’ all levels of the government to implement it. While I agree, I urge us to also become the government. We need more representation in politics.

3. I think its important to have free programs in the community but not just sports. Things like the Arts, which can help foster confidence, creativity and communication skills. It would be great to incorporate ABR/Afrocentric training, through different kinds of programs and mediums. We have to get creative with how we share the info & who is sharing the info.

Example: I started the ACT OUT Youth Theatre Program in Malvern to teach acting/improv etc. I am a professional actor so the youth trusted my acting expertise, it also inspired them to “follow their dreams” because they saw and got to know someone (me) doing just that! The Representation I provided was vital. The kids had so much fun. I was able to make some of the scenes about challenges we might face as black youth (Police, racism, food insecurity etc) and we showed scenes on how to deal with it or avoid it. So it was fun, educational and therapeutic for some. Not one or the other! We gotta get creative. We can do this!

[Shelly]

All of the points you made were excellent. We would all benefit from an inclusive, open and honest society that points out the truth, not just what we want to sugarcoat or gloss over. In fact, I might add that it’s the adults who need this education more than children, who often are leaders in what it means to be a loving and just society. Thanks for your amazing response.

[Raven]

Well said Mercedes, everything you’ve stated needs to be better implemented and mentioned to our younger generations. Their mindset aren’t like other generations; the things we may think they don’t understand or know about, their very much aware of because their experiencing it more and more every day. Educationally, our roots need to be better taught within the school program because it’s very easy for Black people’s roots and heritage to be overlooked within society. Our culture is fantasized by other groups but our heritage and roots it uncared for. I also want to stress that we need to encourage and implement more unity internally (within our Black communities). Not only are we struggling in a battle with non-Black groups, but within our own groups/communities, which in a sense makes it 10x harder for us to achieve the things we want.

I also love your comment on becoming our own government. Unfortunately this government isn’t 100% for Black people so that only thing we can do is create our own, build together so we can better meet our needs.

[Victoria]

I agree a lot with the comments others have made. We must let these youth speak for themselves and advocate for themselves about these issues. It is our place to help them learn to do this in an effective way as well and even at times to provide those platforms for them to speak. Within my work as a child and youth practitioner we strive to do this a lot, and learn to hear other people out and make them feel supported through this work we do.

[Cassandra]

[emily]

I think pro-actively designing pathways to inclusion in the youth sector involves centering the experiences, perspectives and voices of youth in the youth centre. This includes youth led programs, peer support/ peer support trainings and community trainings. It involves workers using intersectional advocacy and a continuous reflective/ reflexive framework and a commitment to listening to youth. Services need to be developed by communities with less restrictions by the government regarding reporting, funding and policies.

Furthermore creating a future that in abolitionist, divests from binaries and centers transformative justice is imperative in creating a inclusive youth sector.

[Raven]

👍🏾 Agreed! Having communities create and facilitate programs rather than the government will allow more flexibility to the services and actually reflect the needs of that particular population.