Toronto’s systemic shame: Are Black youth still on trial today?

The African Canadian Social Development Council (ACSDC) hosted its fourth annual conference on Confronting Anti-Black Racism at York University on October 4^th, 2025. The event gathered more than 115 Black, African, and Caribbean community organizations across the GTA to discuss this year’s theme: “The Criminal Justice System, Policing, and Black Youth.”

The conference aimed to move beyond discussion toward real solutions. It brought together Black youth service providers, legal experts, and community leaders to challenge systemic injustice and explore ways to transform institutions that have long failed Black communities.

In the program’s opening message, Kabu Asante, President of the ACSDC, laid out the stakes, “Across the country and right here in Toronto, Black youth face disproportionate contact with the criminal justice system. Over-policing, systemic bias, and a lack of culturally relevant support continue to block their path to safety and opportunity.”

He emphasized that this event is a rallying point for tangible change. “This conference is where lived experience meets policy, where accountability meets collaboration, and where healing begins through dialogue,” he said.

Asante urged attendees to see their presence as active participation in a collective fight, “Change can’t happen in isolation; it demands honest conversation, shared responsibility, and mutual respect. Our goal is clear: uplift, protect, and empower Black youth by building a justice system that serves them, not one that stands in their way.”

Premier Doug Ford shared his message of support, highlighting the province’s investment in the Black Youth Action Plan. “Young people are our future leaders and thinkers,” Ford stated. “By working with community partners, we can remove barriers, foster leadership, and increase opportunities for Black communities across Ontario.”

Federal and municipal leaders echoed the sentiment. Hon. Judy Sgro, MP for Humber River–Black Creek, praised the ACSDC for turning talk into action, “This conference continues to inspire Black youth to shine: to build resilience, foster leadership, and challenge systemic injustice within Canada’s criminal justice system.”

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow reaffirmed the City’s partnership with Black-led organizations through its 10-Year Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism, “We’re working to build a city that’s inclusive and equitable for every resident,” Chow said. “Through long-term collaboration, Toronto can deliver better outcomes for Black communities.”

The morning’s panel discussion, “The Criminal Justice System, Policing, and Black Youth,” moderated by Timiro Aganey of Midaynta Community Services, featured powerful insights from five leaders:

• Imam Habeeb Ali – Author, multi-faith chaplain, and restorative justice advocate.
• Shedrack C. Agnabwa – Managing Partner, Agbakwas Law.
• Marc (Kwabena) Rainford – Director of Community Safety, York Association for Academics, Athletics, and Character Education.
• Candice Marie Holt – Founder and CEO, Clockwork Coaching and Consulting for Teachers Inc.

Afternoon breakout sessions tackled critical issues:

1. Building a Positive Path for Our Youth – Facilitated by Candice Marie Holt.
2. Building Trust Between Police and Black Communities – Led by PC Curtis Celestine, Black Liaison Officer, TPS.
3. Mental Health and the Impact of Policing on Youth – Facilitated by Ikram Imam, Canadian Mental Health Association.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Kanika Samuels-Wortley, Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in Systemic Racism, Technology, and Criminal Justice at Ontario Tech University. Her research dissects how racism operates across policing and policy structures.

Dr. Samuels-Wortley urged attendees to confront uncomfortable truths: systemic racism is embedded in practice, policy, and perception. Her message was both urgent and hopeful; understanding these intersections is the first step toward dismantling them.

The African Canadian Social Development Council continues to be a leading voice in confronting Anti-Black Racism. Its solution-based approach remains grounded in: collaboration, accountability, and empowerment.

As the conference concluded, one message resonated across every conversation: justice requires and demands action.