We commit to action on Anti-Black Racism

The What’s Up Walk-In network believes every child, youth and family deserves access to mental health care in environments where they feel safe, respected and understood. Toronto’s Infant, Child and Youth Mental Health (ICYMH) sector recognizes that this has not always been the experience for African, Black and Caribbean communities.

Anti-Black racism continues to shape how institutions operate and how services are experienced. Bias, misunderstanding, and structural barriers can limit equitable access to care and affect whether families feel comfortable seeking support, feel heard or see their identities and cultures reflected in the services they receive.

Addressing these inequities requires intentional and sustained action. The HOPE Strategy—Honouring Our Promise: Ending Anti-Black Racism—is a multi-year roadmap guiding the ICYMH sector’s collective commitment to confront and dismantle systemic anti-Black racism within organizations and across the broader systems affecting children and youth. The initiative focuses on advancing equitable, anti-racist and anti-oppressive policies through staff training, organizational change and strengthened accountability.

This work goes beyond statements of support. It means listening to communities, strengthening accountability and examining how policies, practices and decision-making can either reinforce inequities or help dismantle them. It also means ensuring programs and services are culturally affirming, equitable and responsive.

Together with partners across the sector, we are working to build a more responsive, inclusive and accountable mental health system—one where African, Black and Caribbean children and families can access care that honours their identities, recognizes their strengths and supports their wellbeing.