We acknowledge the impact of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and slavery, in keeping with the extended International Decade for People of African Descent and seek to educate the public, elevate the experiences of those most affected, and foster a deeper understanding of this critical history.

 

The City is committed to addressing historical injustices by exploring the legacies and impacts of the trans-Atlantic Slave Trade on Toronto and its residents. This commitment is deeply intertwined with the principles of the UN Decade for People of African Descent, which emphasizes recognition, justice, and development.

The legacies of the trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and slavery encompass multiple aspects, both positive and negative, and are deeply connected to the systemic anti-Black racism that affects education, employment, income, housing and more. Slavery is but one piece of the history and legacy of the Black experience. The City is actively working to confront these issues by implementing targeted universalism strategies—aiming to dismantle systemic barriers and promote equity for all, while recognizing the unique challenges faced by Black communities.

By understanding the historical context and its ongoing impact, we can collectively strive for a more just and equitable society. This initiative is inspired by the resilience and contributions of people of African-descent in Toronto and the diaspora, and celebrates the acts of resistance, resilience, and liberation expressed through art, culture and more.

We invite everyone to Confront the Past, Change the Future.

Explore reading materials from various Canadian sources to deepen your understanding of the history of slavery in Toronto, Ontario and Canada.

The trans-Atlantic slave trade had a profound impact on Toronto and its development. Learn about the historical context, the legacies of slavery in the city and explore significant figures and events. Educational resources are also available to assist in the conversations with school-aged children.

International Programs and Initiatives

Multimedia

For Educators

Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism

The City of Toronto was the first municipality in North America to develop an Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism. Launched in 2018 and completed in 2023, the initial five-year Action Plan sought to address systemic anti-Black racism and advance the City’s commitment to equity.

Building on this foundation, the development of a renewed 10-Year Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism is in progress and scheduled to be presented to City Council in early Summer 2025. Through a renewed Action Plan, Toronto aims to create lasting change by tackling the root causes of inequality and fostering a more inclusive city.

Awakenings

Launched in December 2020 by City of Toronto heritage sites and museums, Awakenings is a virtual series of art projects by artists from the Black, Indigenous and people of colour communities operating under the principles of anti-oppression, anti-colonialism and anti-racism.

Black Mental Health Week

Toronto’s first Black Mental Health Day was officially declared on Monday, March 2, 2020. In 2021, the day was expanded to Black Mental Health Week to provide greater opportunities to cultivate awareness of the impacts of anti-Black racism on Black communities, families and individuals.

Confronting Anti-Black Racism Advisory Committee

Established in 2021, the Confronting Anti-Black Racism Advisory Committee provides advice to City Council and serves as a convening table to advise on inter-government and institutional work on anti-Black racism in sectors such as education, child-welfare, policing and the justice system, housing and employment.