African/Black Canadian Support
Who are the African/Black Canadian Support Group?
The African/Black Support Group is an invaluable group dedicated to fostering Black culture understanding, inclusivity and empowerment. With a primary focus on the unique needs and experiences of individuals of African or Black descent, this support group serves as a beacon of support and solidarity within our agency. Rooted in the rich tapestry of African and Black cultures, our group is committed to creating a space that celebrates diversity, dismantles barriers, and promotes wholistic well-being for all members of our community. By championing a collaborative and nurturing environment, the African/Black Support Group stands poised to enhance the collective strength of our agency, weaving a more resilient and culturally enriched fabric for the benefit of every child, youth and family we serve. This is where unity and understanding converge.
Go back and get it! A symbol of the wisdom of learning from the past to build for the future. From the Akan proverb, “Se wo were fi na wosan kofa a yenkyiri,” meaning, “It is not taboo to go back for what you forgot (or left behind).”
OVOV ABR Statement “Anti-Black racism is systemic and insidious, permeating systems, legislation, policies, and practices with detrimental impacts on Black families. We acknowledge the historical legacies of colonialism that produced and sustain anti-Black racism across institutions in Ontario, including within child welfare. We underscore the importance of embracing decolonization as a tool to dismantle institutional and systemic oppression. The pursuit of equitable outcomes and social justice for Black children, youth and families cannot be done in silos. The work is and must be the responsibility of everyone working within and alongside child welfare, including leaders, decision makers, frontline staff, community organizations, and mandated referrers. Many have already engaged in incredible sacrifice to speak out and take meaningful action against oppression. We pay homage to those who continue to resist and challenge economic exploitation, homophobia, racism, gender discrimination, religious bigotry, and other oppressive constructs. We honour those who have devoted their lives as tireless champions in the pursuit of justice, equity, human rights, and other forms of social and economic justice. Those who have challenged oppressive systems and who have constructed affirming and equitable examples for all of us to follow, we stand on your sturdy shoulders, and commit ourselves to working alongside you in solidarity for the purpose of liberation”. (cited from, One Vision One Voice: Changing the Ontario Child Welfare System to Better Serve African Canadians – Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies (oacas.org))