On March 18, York University held a virtual town hall to discuss the recently launched Addressing Anti-Black Racism: A Framework on Black Inclusion and the accompanying Draft Action Plan on Black Inclusion – For Further Consultation. Together, these documents will guide the University’s approach to addressing systemic anti-Black racism and providing equitable access to learning, teaching, research and professional environments that are respectful and inclusive for all.
The town hall was presented by York President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton; Vice-President Equity, People and Culture Sheila Cote-Meek; Carl James, senior advisor on equity and representation, Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community & Diaspora, and professor in York’s Faculty of Education; and Andrea Davis, special advisor on the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS) Anti-Black Racism Strategy and associate professor, LA&PS.
To open the town hall, Lenton welcomed attendees, provided a land acknowledgment and introduced the presenters. Cote-Meek, James and Davis gave an overview of the development and key points of the Framework and Draft Action Plan. Following the presentation, pre-submitted and live questions from attendees were addressed by the panel.
Community members can provide input on the Framework and Draft Action Plan using the form at the bottom of this page.
The full video of the town hall is now available and can be viewed here.