Virtual Café by YouthREX | Justin Nembhard | Activity

Justin replied to the discussion Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario? in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 23:56:12 -0400

Reply to Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario?

I agree with you that anti-Black racism in Ontario remains deeply entrenched. It is a complex problem with a long history, and it will not be solved easily. But I am hopeful that we can create a more just and equitable society for all if we work together. Also, it is important to remember that we all have a role to play in dismantling racism.…

Justin replied to the discussion Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario? in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 23:49:19 -0400

Reply to Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario?

I agree with you that anti-Black racism in Ontario endures because of a legacy of colonialism, slavery, and discrimination. You know, systemic biases in education, employment, and criminal justice continue to disadvantage Black communities. Moreover, the lack of comprehensive anti-racism policies and persistent stereotypes contribute to…

Justin replied to the discussion Overall Emotions in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 23:41:28 -0400

Reply to Overall Emotions

I can understand why you feel that way. It can be overwhelming to learn about the history of racism and the many ways it continues to impact Black people today. But it is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. Many resources are available to help you learn and grow, and many people are committed to working together to…

Justin replied to the discussion What is One Simple Thing you could do to center Black youth wellbeing in your work? What is One Simple Thing that your organization could do to center Black youth wellbeing? in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 23:36:22 -0400

Reply to What is One Simple Thing you could do to center Black youth wellbeing in your work? What is One Simple Thing that your organization could do to center Black youth wellbeing?

I agree that education is a critical factor in helping to end racism since it can inform policies through research. When we learn and unlearn about the histories of different Black people, we gain a deeper understanding of the systems of oppression they face. This knowledge can help people to develop empathy and become more effective allies… Read more

Justin replied to the discussion What is One Simple Thing you could do to center Black youth wellbeing in your work? What is One Simple Thing that your organization could do to center Black youth wellbeing? in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 23:30:52 -0400

Reply to What is One Simple Thing you could do to center Black youth wellbeing in your work? What is One Simple Thing that your organization could do to center Black youth wellbeing?

I love what you’re doing, taking a stance of “not knowing” when working with Black folks and other racialized groups whose experiences you can never truly understand. It’s so important to defer to folks in the communities you’re serving for decision-making and continually reflect on your commitment to anti-racism.

It’s also great that…

Justin replied to the discussion Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario? in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 23:23:21 -0400

Reply to Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario?

I am moved by what you have shared, and I totally agree with your statement. Erasure, false claims, and a lack of awareness of Black realities and history are all major contributors to anti-Black racism in Canada.

It is important to remember that Canada has a long and complex history of slavery and racism. Black people have been here since…

Justin replied to the discussion Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario? in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 22:51:21 -0400

Reply to Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario?

I agree with your assessment that anti-Black racism is deeply entrenched in the institutions and policies in Canada and Ontario. It is a systemic issue that has been perpetuated for centuries, and it continues to have a devastating impact on the lives of Black people. The fact that social welfare programs rooted in Western ideologies do…

Justin replied to the discussion Let’s dream and envision programs and services where Black youth are not experiencing anti-Black racism. How might we move beyond identifying the service needs and gaps Black youth face, to pro-actively designing pathways to inclusion in the youth sector? in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 23:39:31 -0500

Reply to Let’s dream and envision programs and services where Black youth are not experiencing anti-Black racism. How might we move beyond identifying the service needs and gaps Black youth face, to pro-actively designing pathways to inclusion in the youth sector?

well, we could start by ensuring that youth workers are adequately trained on anti-Black racism and its implications for the services they deliver. This training should not be a one-time experience but an ongoing process of deepening understanding and practice of anti-racist approaches to youth work. In addition, youth organizations should…

Justin replied to the discussion What is One Simple Thing you could do to center Black youth wellbeing in your work? What is One Simple Thing that your organization could do to center Black youth wellbeing? in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 04:57:08 -0500

Reply to What is One Simple Thing you could do to center Black youth wellbeing in your work? What is One Simple Thing that your organization could do to center Black youth wellbeing?

One simple thing we could do to center Black youth wellbeing in our work and organization is to provide them with access to mentorship, resources, and guidance that can help them reach their goals.

Justin replied to the discussion Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario? in the forum Centering Black Youth Wellbeing

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 23:39:18 -0500

Reply to Why is anti-Black racism still a problem in Ontario?

I believe it has a lot to do with the stories that were told about blackness, which were then used to form the institutions and systems in which we all work and live. These stories of blackness can be traced back to slavery and colonization, which were often used to create racialized narratives that divide, marginalize, and oppress Black…