[Salma]

I think we should conduct some research using a variety of different methods such as qualitative and quantitative research, focus groups, and community-based research. This will help create a better understanding about Black youths and their families’ experiences and perspectives on the issues and challenges that they face in today’s society. As Rahma mentioned in her lecture in Module 2, “We must allocate greater resources and support to these communities.”

[Rose]

There is incredibly important research being done (past, present, and continuously) by Black scholars, researchers, students, and community members. Drawing on this research can be part of anti-racism work, for instance, if needing evidence for those in doubt about or not understanding the extensive impacts of anti-Black racism. – RS

[Helena]

The most simple and important thing that we can do as community frontline workers is to engage with various types of research including quantitative and especially qualitative which allows us to foster a lens of unique experience and narrative which may impact our work or interactions with Black community members. A very simple interaction could turn an individual away from feeling comfortable with, heard or included by, a resource due to a naïve or undereducated approach. Interactions with research allows us to identify what is functional and productive versus harmful in invisible or unrecognized ways. Quantitative data helps to identify the true values of actionable approaches, policy changes, and shifts in (or better-yet and hopefully reductions in) systemic racism. The raw data allows us to both identify functional programming, such as proactive youth involvement, community connections, police training and education surrounding institutionalized racism in the criminal justice system; and to identify harmful behaviours such as persistent institutionalized racism in the criminal justice system, arbitrary use of force, overrepresentation, and much more. There are a plethora of productive ways to utilize the research conducted that, as spoken on in the lectures, allows functional response to and advocacy for change on behalf of and with Black communities.

[Joshua]

I believe that healthy Black representation at every level including research teams and governance boards is essential to truly experience change. This has the power to inform and engage useful dialog and also explores what meaningful steps forward can look like. We know that exploring the impacts of anti black racism is incredibly important and must continue. I believe that in addition to this, the continued exploration of meaningful and tangible next steps is essential. We as Black individuals are more than a statistic.

The more we appropriately validate ones lived experiences and resilience, is the more we create space for healing and the recognition that we do not need permission to know that we have a strong lineage, a sure hope, and a bright future.

Love well.

[Samantha]

By drawing on research finding through case studies, qualitative studies and literature reviews, we can effectively learn from the perspectives of black youth as learn more about how harmful anti-black racism is. This also continues the focus on advocating for systemic change and culturally informed supports to address the challenges these youth face.

[Siobhan]

There was truly so much research that was shared in the module, and in the additional resources! Thank you!

I think it’s important to stay up to date with research, and amplify research as it is relevant to your field. For instance, reading about and amplifying research on environmental racism, such as Dr. Ingrid Waldron’s research, is an important part of my work practice. Not everyone stays up to date with research and/or best practices, so the more we can share up to date best practices and research that are created by Black folks, for Black folks with our colleagues and community, the more people will be able to integrate it into their work.

Additionally, so much research already exists that contains recommendations for implementation that have yet to be actualized. Using these recommendations as the root of advocacy work within our organizations and institutions is an important, necessary way to ensure the research is applied and integrated.

[Katie]

This is such a good, thought-provoking question. Both the quantitative AND qualitative data presented in this module were powerful, and, quite frankly, eye-opening. The problem, however, lies in the fact that it might not be well-known. It would be a really good idea, I think to invest in a social media campaign of sorts with bite-sized pieces of information to share to make the data more understood on a wider level. I also think there is so much power in personal testimony and stories. People can connect and understand (as much as possible) on an emotional level with the trauma that Black youth and Black families experience on such a frequent basis. This may actually be a better driver of change than numbers on an infographic. I was very interested in the lecture about the impacts of racial discrimination on the mental health of Black youth and their families, and I was struck by the fact that most of the studies cited came from the USA. The lecturer, in fact, was very vocal about the fact that there has not been a study of this same issue completed here in Canada yet, and I think a study done in Canada would be a good place to start. The first lecture mentioned a lot about how Canada’s claim of being a diverse and multicultural society actually leads to a more insidious form of racism because many don’t believe it exists. If we could refer to data coming specifically out of Canada, I believe it would be an eye-opener for many, and no one would have the ability to deflect with comments such as “yes, but that is in the United States. We are more tolerant here.”

[Kayleigh]

Some of the most interesting research findings from Module 2 were in the second last lecture, “Pathways to Mental Health Care for Black Youth.” One of the themes that emerged throughout this module, is that research shows that Black youth want to be consulted and exercise agency in the care options that are presented to them. This insight reminded me of an article I read by Dr. Shaun Harper, where he said that it’s just as important to look for the things that help Black students succeed in higher education (such as mentorships, strong social ties to the university, academics that they are engaged in), as it is looking at things that negatively impact their journey through higher education. As I previously said, one of the recurrent themes in this module, and the research that has been presented, is that Black youth succeed when they are able to exercise agency.

To me, the question of how to use the research of this module is how to become an effective advocate and supporter for Black youth and their families as they navigate institutions. I think that this research makes a compelling argument for more diverse hiring practices at all levels within different institutions, and that institutions have to implement regular training as well as create ways to track progress and be held accountable. But I return to this piece about the necessity of ensuring that places like schools are safe for Black youth to navigate, and that part of ensuring their safety means ensuring that they and their families are able to collaborate with the people who are working with them, and that these people are trained to be self-critical and reflective of their own practices, for example recognizing when they are adultifying a Black child. To me, the social change that this research bears has to begin with the practitioner, and them developing awareness of themselves so that they can better understand and assist Black youth and their families, instead of penalizing them for the barriers that are created by anti-Black racism.

[Rachel]

There are a variety of ways in which research and data can address and challenge anti-Black racism among youth and their families. Firstly, by compiling and simplifying data and research into easily understandable content for people; we can amplify Black voices and concerns more quickly and efficiently to a broader audience. For example, a research study on the adultification of Black youth, presented as a short video or informational poster, could be shared widely through public platforms like social media or public transportation posters. Once these findings reach the public, it becomes easier for those who are uninformed to begin understanding and educating themselves on dismantling anti-Black racism. However, these media pieces should be created based on existing data and personal stories, rather than exploiting the trauma and discrimination faced by Black people for educational purposes; creating educational materials should not come at the expense of Black people’s well-being. Additionally, as mentioned by others, utilizing empathy and compassion through human connection, such as interviews, spoken word, and personal experiences, can mobilize larger groups of people to demand systemic and political change. There is already a tremendous amount of data on anti-Black racism in Canada and its effects on youth and their families; we know it is detrimental to their well-being, and further research will continue to confirm these results. What is crucial now is using this data to ignite outrage within communities that may be ignorant to or ignoring anti-Black racism in Canada and encouraging them to use their privilege to amplify Black voices and bring about real change. Additionally, research and data should be examined by all youth-serving organizations to identify if intra-organizational anti-Black racism is occurring within their circles and how their work might contribute to the anti-Black racism faced by Black youth.

[Alexandra]

I often feel like it is easier to use quantitative and statistical research in policy and law, but that it is qualitative research (interviews, narratives, personal experiences, art and personal responses and stories,) that really help people who live outside of that narrative and experience to connect on a human level and have empathy and understanding. Policy change is driven by enough people getting angry or passionate enough about a topic or issue, to take direct action through protest, lobbying or voting accordingly. When we read about statistics, we may have a moment of concern or discomfort, but it doesn’t tend to lead to direct action. I think the promotion of initiatives that would support the collection and broadcast of stories, experiences and responses to the lived experience of anti-black racism would be a more direct and effective way to help people understand and respond to issues surrounding anti-black racism in our university and in black families. I think this is an interesting question. There is so much data… until new data drives policy change and laws, nothing much tends to change.

[Yushu]

I think doing community-based research especially the qualitative research is a good way to highlight the impact of anti-black racism on black youth and families and amplify their voices. It is also important to transform the research data into different forms such as videos, infographics, and social media posts to let the public understand them more easily.

[Alison]

Great points here. While quantitative research is important, qualitative research is also of equal importance. With any sort of research as well, it is important to gather information from a wide variety of age groups and genders to ensure a broad scope of research. Having data in different formats is also great so that it is more accessible as well. Having it on social media is even better because its more commonly used.

[Thaarini]

Utilize research findings as a powerful tool to shed light on the profound impact of anti-Black racism on youth and their families. By compiling and articulating these findings in a clear and accessible manner, we can create awareness and challenge societal norms. Emphasizing the psychological, educational, and socio-economic consequences of systemic racism, this approach serves to debunk myths and misconceptions while fostering empathy and understanding. By sharing this information through various channels, including community forums, educational platforms, and media outlets, we can contribute to a collective effort to dismantle stereotypes and work towards a more just and equitable society for Black youth and their families.

[Lauren]

I find majority of the research and data I review measures the disparities and socio-economic factors that impact Black communities, but seldom include opportunity for qualitative data collection to magnify Black voices, perspectives and ideas to help transform our current social and political systems into ones that address Anti-Black racism at its root causes and develop programming that is plentiful, well-funded, and accessible.
I find it frustrating that so many research studies present results that highlight the disparities the Black community experiences, without the context presented in the second module, leaving the context behind the results to seem ambiguous, perpetuating a dialogue that ignores an integral historical context explained in this module.

[Diana]

Something that I’ve noticed in a couple of agencies in their research and collection of data is the lack of disaggregated data that is being collected. If we do not have disaggregated data, it would be difficult to get underneath the surface of social issues such as racism, gender equality, (dis)ability, and other forms of social oppressions.

When engaging in research on Black Youth and Families, the use of disaggregated data is essential as Canadian society perpetuates Black erasure in all different types of spaces, and using that disaggregated data can help bring these issues to the light and we can also use intersectionality to better aid Black Youth and Families in their different experiences that they face.

[Marie-Eve]

Research is an extremely important tool in identifying, understanding, and addressing the myriad of inequities and social injustices Black youth are facing in Ontario and across Canada. I also agree that drawing connections between these statistics is important to understand the various intersections of how these barriers, inequities, and social justice issues permeate every stage of the child’s life into adulthood. But most of all, I think the most important part of research is for organizations to use this information to identify the various ways they may contribute to these issues (even though they’re not explicitly mentioned in the data). For example, as a former educator who now works for an artistic organization that offers youth programming, I have to look at this data and understand how my organization contributes to these barriers and how I can utilize this data to inform a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive experience for Black youth. For example, by understanding the various needs in Black communities (both in urban and rural settings), we can address the barriers that may prevent accessibility to our programs (whether it be transportation, funds, digital accessibility, creating a safe place that can foster a sense of belonging, etc.) Also, drawing on the content of the Spoken Word in Module 1, we can ensure our programming represents and celebrates Black stories authentically.

[Jewelle]

I think the idea of putting research into digestible forms is really important. Short videos, infographics, even eye catching images that cause people to think and want to know more. Much of the problem is that even when good research is done, dissemination is the barrier to action and momentum. More creative and relatable ways of sharing research information will be key to leveraging that research.

[Elah]

Research findings can certainly highlight the myriad ways in which Black individuals in Canada are systemically discriminated against and oppressed. However, research findings can also help us understand the issue differently. For example, let’s look at high drop out rates of Black students in the schooling system as well as the school-to-prison pipeline that is institutionally embedded within the structure of our institutions; without research and data, we might interpret or understand this issue outside the context of historical and ongoing racism which might promote pathologizing Black bodies for their “inability” to be “good students.” With research and data, however, we can reinterpret this issue as a cause of racist and unfair educational policies, systems and practices. We can take the responsibility of succeeding off of the individuals who are trying to survive in a system that is rigged against them.

The same might apply for mental health disparities. Quantitative research data can tell us how many Black individuals are in need of mental health support/care or how many have tried to receive mental health support/care. Quantitative research data, though, would be able to tell us about Black individuals’ experiences while trying to receive mental health care as well as why this is. This could help in the creation of mental health care that would acknowledge the impact of structural racism that makes it difficult for Black individuals to find and receive help. This would be beneficial in understanding Black folks’ experiences as a result of the system and not as a result of innate or inherent failure.

[Helori]

Research is a crucial part towards understanding and change in a systemic issue such as anti-Black racism. By sharing educational findings, we become one step closer towards a society that is more empathetic, sympathetic and collaboratively working towards a better world. In order to use the research effectively we firstly need to educate ourselves on key findings on the topic. We can use other peoples research to give us a good basic sense of understanding. The next important part consists of sharing those key findings with others in way that is compelling. Not everyone has access to academic papers, so sharing the key findings for all demographics is ideal. Engagement is another important step into using our findings effectively. This helps spread awareness and finds solutions from different perspectives. Finally, evaluating impact is another key part is continuing the cycle of research and implementation. By evaluation how we used our finding to create an impact, we can then return to a critical thinking state to see how we can improve on our teachings.

[Keer]

Anti-black racism against youth and families is a systemic topic for those who are denied that racism doesn’t exist. The data research will assist to explore in finding what the missing part and what are challenges any black person experiences.

The research will provide evidence in different areas such as employment, healthcare, education in different institutions, criminal justice in particular, and other aspects of challenges many Black communities experience in Canada and broadly. Conducting research will help those Black, African representatives in Government sectors to identify evidently African communities that are being criminalized by law enforcement.

[Laura]

Looking to research findings is highly effective when addressing the impacts of anti-Black racism, including in the development of new policies or programs. Using research, we can identify where disparities exist and use this as a starting point to create change. By reflecting on these identified disparities using our knowledge of anti-Black racism, we can begin to develop strategies to correct such outcomes.

Research findings also serve as a useful tool when advocating for funding, program development, etc. as they provide a concrete source of evidence for your reasoning.

[hania]

Identify the key research findings and statistics that highlight the impact of anti-Black racism. Look for evidence of disparities in areas such as education, healthcare, employment, criminal justice, and housing. Focus on findings that demonstrate the negative consequences of racism on the well-being, mental health, educational outcomes, and socio-economic opportunities of Black youth and their families.

Develop awareness campaigns that utilize research findings to educate the public about the impact of anti-Black racism. Utilize research findings to advocate for policy changes that address anti-Black racism and its impact on youth and families. Present research-based arguments to policymakers, government officials, and community leaders. Emphasize the need for policies that promote equity, anti-discrimination, and inclusion in areas such as education, healthcare, housing, and criminal justice.

[Phyllis]

Black communities know and experience Anti-Black Racism on an ongoing basis and they know that it exists in the societies we live in, however, members of the larger societies doubt and find other explanations for the experiences of Black people. White supremacy believes in the power of the word and therefore needs the proof of Black peoples’ experiences. Research data brings these facts to the fore and makes it more difficult for others to explain away anti-Black racism. It paints the picture of the impact of anti-Black racism on the lives of Black populations. The people who hold power and law makers are sometimes compelled by the facts to address anti-Black racism. With it, funders are more willing to provide resources to organizations and community groups to address the presenting issues.

[Brianna]

Finding and analyzing data about anti-Black racism can be an important tool in implementing actions and further developing policies and frameworks. With this data, it can highlight the reality and prevalence of racism, and where it is occurring. Knowing these findings, we can incorporate them into our practice as they can shape interactions with youth and their families, as well as contribute to challenging racism. Sharing these findings with the public to bring awareness to the accounts of racism is also an important way to highlight how deeply rooted racism is within society.

[Kristen]

Research helps guide us. It provides insight into a variety of topics – including the impact of racism. If we ignore the data research provides we are missing a big piece of the puzzle. We can’t truly realize the generational impact without the data – the world is so egocentric that people don’t want to think that actions of the past and present impact the present and future generations. We need to use the research, utilize it, and make changes for the better.

[Amina Kay]

Research is a key element in DEI, particularly for a sensitive topic like racism. It allows the conversation to be more credible and less anecdotal, numbers also make issues less personal. Data make the case for the urgency of Black Racism in Ontario and the rest of Canada. It can challenge the denial of the discrimination happening nationwide and put pressure on lawmakers and politicians to make important changes. Data has no color and no loyalty, data is not politically correct or in denial, data depicts reality and is central to any in depth social change

[Nimra]

There is immense research encompassing the negative effects of racism not only on the individual but also on their families. In schools when black students are disproportionately represented in suspension records, given harsher punishments than their white counterparts, are expelled from school often, criminally charged more than their white counterparts, it doesn’t only take an emotional, psychological toll on the individual but on their families too.

[Mehret]

First, it is important that we engage with the available research on ABR and its effects on youth and their families with intention, setting aside time in our workday to engage with the literature, research findings, community voices and resources on ABR to increase our knowledge base so we can effectively challenge ABR, within our own individual work/lives, in our organization, the sector, and society in general. There are so many resources shared in the certificate modules, and YouthREX’s website and it’s important for me to continue learning and reflecting on my work with Black youth. I also got to reflect on not undermining anecdotal evidence in Module 4. Although we are a very scientific society now, and put a huge emphasis on data and research, there is still so much to learn from anecdotal evidence and the lived experiences of each Black youth we work with, especially when the data and research on this population is lacking, specifically in a Canadian context. It also got me reflecting on valuing intuitive understanding of the work, even when the data and research is lacking, especially from our own lived experiences and wisdom that comes from working in the sector over the years, and how one can implement that in their work without “comparing youth’s experience with yours,” and understanding every Black youth is a unique individual.

[Eugenia]

I think research is crucial when we need to start to plan and implement interventions as research gives us precious information on how the phenomena is developing within the society. The picture we received by research data is a valuable way to start a clinical work but its also we need to take as a valis tool but not the only one. We need to put research into perspective and taking into consideration also many other factors that are not measurable and we can validate through research which are represented by the emotional world of individuals. For example, research helped me in the past to understand the disproportionality of black children in the Child Welfare System. However, the work I need to do with the emotional outcome of this disproportionality has something deeper and more "intimate" that cant be measurable by data.

[Suvi]

<b style=”font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit;”> I think we can use this research to create more programs to educate people. I dont think everyone has the same knowledge about ABR and I think teaching these modules to everyone and having it more accessible will help in in ABR on youth and their families.

[Aldith]

The way to use research is to apply it. Apply it in a way that challenges some stereotype based in ABR. Take some significant finding, translate it into relatable language for the community its meant to serve, and take it to the people to collaborate on solutions. This collaboration has to be done intentionally…with actionable goals and clear objectives, indicators. As the solutions are rolled out (also a collaborative effort) use the same measures from the initial study to gauge whether the solution is making an impact – reducing the Black kids referred to CAS, reducing the expulsions, increasing graduation rates…whatever. if the results are trending in the right direction…keep going. If not, go back to the solution ideas and try another one.

This also makes me think that research proposals should include intentions to take action on the findings. That way, there is some accountability for follow through, instead of the report sitting on a shelf somewhere.