By HOLLINSWORTH AUGUSTE
Black women, across the nations they call home, have been the foundation of movements, families and communities. Yet, despite their unwavering strength and invaluable contributions, they continue to face obstacles.
It is no different in Toronto.
Black women are often denied the fair chances they rightfully deserve, whether in their careers, education or personal lives. But these challenges only serve to highlight their resilience and underscore the importance of celebrating their achievements and amplifying their voices.
Toronto’s Black and West Indian community is rich with stories of women who have persevered in the face of adversity. Whether it’s through running businesses, excelling in leadership roles, or raising families amidst systemic barriers, these women have shown us time and time again that their contributions are indispensable. Their efforts, often overlooked or underappreciated, are the foundation upon which our communities thrive.
This is not merely a matter of survival but of flourishing against all odds, and it is time we fully recognize and honour our Black women.
Much like in the United States, Black women in Canada encounter unique challenges rooted in both racism and sexism. Our history is not immune to the harmful structures that deny opportunity and equality. Whether it is wage disparities, glass ceilings, or the emotional toll of constant discrimination, Black women face a daily uphill battle that few others fully understand. But it is their remarkable strength that pushes society forward, demanding better treatment and opening doors for future generations. These women aren’t just survivors – they are change-makers, advocates and trailblazers who defy the constraints placed upon them by an unequal playing field.
Take, for example, the many Black women in Toronto who run small businesses, from hair salons and restaurants to marketing and consulting firms. They have transformed challenges into opportunities, building businesses that not only support their families but also enrich their communities. Yet, despite their entrepreneurship and leadership, many Black women are still underfunded, underrepresented and face higher barriers to accessing business resources compared to their White counterparts.
The reality is Black women are central to the success and vitality of Toronto’s economy. Their contributions extend far beyond the workplace, reaching into education, healthcare and the arts. Black women are at the forefront of creating cultural change, educating young minds, advocating for health equity and using their artistic talents to challenge social narratives.
To support Black women means to advocate for equity across all aspects of life – from the workplace to healthcare, from education to media representation. It means ensuring that young Black girls see role models in positions of power and influence. It means providing them with opportunities to advance without the fear of being held back because of the colour of their skin or their gender.
Advocating for Black women is not merely an act of charity or goodwill – it is an acknowledgment of their central role in shaping the fabric of our communities. By championing their rights, we are investing in a more equitable, prosperous and just future.
This support must take the form of both structural change and daily action: from lobbying for policy reforms that ensure equal pay and protection in the workplace to creating mentorship programs that empower the next generation of Black female leaders.
Healthcare is another arena where disparities are particularly stark. Black women are often overlooked or misdiagnosed in healthcare systems that were not designed with their needs in mind. Studies have shown that Black women are less likely to receive proper care for conditions like heart disease and mental health issues, and more likely to face complications during childbirth. These disparities can no longer be ignored.
As we move forward as a community, let us commit to standing by the women who continue to stand tall despite everything they face. Let us be the voices that amplify their work, the hands that offer support and the advocates who push for a fairer future. This means uplifting the voices of Black women in every sphere, from boardrooms to classrooms, from hospitals to studios.
To the Black women of Toronto – your contributions are invaluable, your strength is unmatched, and your potential is limitless. Together, we will ensure that your future is one where your accomplishments are celebrated, your barriers are torn down, and your brilliance is undeniable. You have carried the weight of communities on your shoulders for too long without receiving the recognition you deserve. It is time for a change, and it begins by honoring you today, tomorrow, and every day to come.
