This self-paced, online course is designed to enhance the ability of frontline workers in the social services and human services sectors to recognize, confront, and address anti-Black racism in their workplaces and communities. The course provides practical tools and strategies to help participants understand the historical and current impacts of anti-Black racism, particularly within the shelter system and other social services settings.
Participants will explore key topics such as the unique history of anti-Black racism in Canada, the connections between systemic oppression and service delivery, and the significance of intersectionality in shaping the experiences of Black staff and service users. The course also equips learners with skills to apply trauma-informed approaches, practice allyship, and operationalize anti-racist strategies in their daily roles to foster more inclusive, equitable service environments.
A special thank you to the developers – Keishia Facey and Vania Patrick-Drakes, for their dedication and expertise in developing a transformative training focused on promoting confronting anti-Black racism across the homelessness sector.
Learning Objectives:
- Define and contextualize anti-Black racism, including its history in Canada and its relevance today.
- Recognize the manifestations of anti-Black racism and oppression in frontline work settings and for service users.
- Identify the ways in which broader systems, such as healthcare and criminal justice, interact with the shelter system to magnify anti-Black racism.
- Understand the importance of intersectionality in shaping the experiences and outcomes of Black staff and service users.
- Examine the impacts of anti-Black racism on mental health, wellbeing, and service environments.
- Understand the resilience, diversity, and contributions of Black communities in Canada.
- Apply trauma-informed approaches in service delivery and when working with colleagues, through an anti-Black racism lens.
- Distinguish between non-racist and anti-racist approaches and apply anti-racist practices in the workplace.
- Recognize the roles and responsibilities associated with allyship in creating inclusive environments.
- Operationalize anti-Black racism frameworks to align service practices with equity, inclusion, and positive outcomes.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the history, context, and current impacts of anti-Black racism in Canada.
- Identify and address manifestations of anti-Black racism in their service roles.
- Apply trauma-informed, anti-racist practices in service delivery and daily workplace interactions.
- Recognize the importance of allyship and engage in supportive, anti-racist actions with clients and coworkers.
- Foster more equitable and inclusive service environments through the application of anti-racism strategies.
Course Structure:
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Introduction
Topics: Introduction to course goals, structure, and overview of key learning objectives. -
Module 1: Understanding Anti-Black Racism and its Impact on Mental Health
Topics: History and impacts of anti-Black racism in Canada; intersections with mental health and wellbeing. -
Module 2: Black Diversity, Resilience, and Strength
Topics: Contributions of Black communities in Canada, understanding diversity, and building on community strengths. -
Module 3: Anti-Racist Strategies
Topics: Trauma-informed approaches, allyship, operationalizing anti-racist policies and practices.
Target Audience:
This course is intended for frontline workers in social services, human services, and shelter systems who directly engage with clients and coworkers and wish to strengthen their understanding and application of anti-racist practices in their day-to-day work.
Mode(s): Self-Paced
Length: Approximately 5-7 hours
Course Requirements: All course requirements must be finished within 30 days of enrollment in order to obtain proof of completion.
Cost: $140 per person (FREE for City of Toronto Funded Shelter Staff)