This guide is intended to provide information relevant to the experiences of Black children, youth, and families interacting with the child welfare system in Ontario. The guide includes information and resources on the importance of culturally relevant services for Black children, youth, and families. In addition, the guide also provides additional content on the importance of approaching our work in the child welfare system through the lens of equity, inclusion, and social justice, with critical considerations of the impact of anti-Black racism experienced by African Canadians.
The term "African Canadian" is used to refer to all people of African descent residing in Canada, regardless of their cultural background, citizenship status, or place of birth (e.g. Canada, Jamaica, Nigeria, England, etc.). While there is a great deal of ethnic, religious, and linguistic diversity within this population, the term speaks to a shared identity stemming from the experience of being Black in Canada, including the experience of anti-Black racism.
This guide is intended as a supplementary resource for staff at Children's Aid Societies and Indigenous Well-being Agencies. It is not intended as an authority on social work or legal practice, nor is it meant to be representative of all perspectives in child welfare. Staff are encouraged to think critically when reviewing publications and other materials, and to always confirm practice and policy at their agency.