U of T Anti-Black Racism Task Force

Task Force Co-Chairs


“The true focus of revolutionary change is never merely the
oppressive situations which we seek to escape, but that piece of the
oppressor which is planted deep within each of us….”


Audre Lorde, 1980
“Age, Race, Class, and Sex: Women Redefining Difference”

About This Initiative


The U of T institutional Anti-Black Racism Task Force was formed to address anti-Black racism and to promote Black inclusion and excellence within the University of Toronto tri-campus community. Throughout the course of the 2020-21 academic year, the Task Force reviewed existing University policies, processes, and practices and considered others that would address anti-Black racism. The Report of the University of Toronto Anti-Black Racism Task Force was delivered to the President, Vice-President Human Resources and Equity, and Provost on March 31, 2021, and provided actionable recommendations to further Black inclusion and excellence at the University.

Addressing anti-Black racism and creating sustainable change will continue to entail some difficult and brave conversations. This is important work we must all do together as a University community. Moving towards a more inclusive University community that recognizes inclusive excellence is vital to best advancing the research, educational, and civic impact of this University both nationally and globally.

Task Force Membership


Undergraduate and Professional Program Students:

  • David Allens, Faculty of Arts and Science
  • Alana Bailey, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering
  • Sofia Oke Quick, Temerty Faculty of Medicine
  • Debra Olaniyi, University of Toronto Mississauga
  • Aysha Nebil Mohammed, Rotman Commerce

Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Fellows:

  • Ahmed Ilmi (Provost’s Postdoctoral Fellow), OISE
  • Travonne Edwards, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work
  • Kadija Lodge-Tulloch, Faculty of Arts and Science

Staff:

  • Mikhail Burke, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering
  • Denise Lopes, University of Toronto Scarborough
  • Andrea Burton, University of Toronto Mississauga
  • Mark Seymour, Division of University Advancement
  • Deborah Warner, Tri-campus/Community Safety Office

Faculty and Instructors:

  • Catherine Amara, Kinesiology and Physical Education 
  • Robert Gerlai, University of Toronto Mississauga
  • Sarah Lynn Kleeb, University of Toronto Scarborough
  • Ann Lopez, OISE
  • Melanie Newton, Faculty of Arts and Science
  • Alexie Tcheuyap, Faculty of Arts and Science

The Task Force is grateful for the feedback that was provided by members of the community. These observations, conversations and experiences were vital in drafting the recommendations that the Task Force made in its Final Report.

Resources


Related Reading


Image credit: Clay Banks