Official 2024 Program

Arrival and registration for international Delegates

Toronto Historical Tours
1. Old Town Toronto Walking Tour- Delegates will explore the roots of Toronto by walking through Old Town, including St. Lawrence Market and the Distillery District. This will involve a tour of the history of early settlers, architectural landmarks, and the city’s development.

2. Black History Walks- Focused on the history and contributions of Black Canadians in Toronto, this tour will cover significant sites related to the Underground Railroad and the development of Black communities in the city.
• Highlights: Historical plaques, old churches, and neighborhoods significant to Black history, such as the former site of the First Baptist Church.

3. Toronto Islands Historical Walk – Delegates will learn about the history of the Toronto Islands, from indigenous use to its development as a recreational area.

4. Royal Ontario Museum Tours- Participants will get in-depth knowledge about Toronto’s and Canada’s history through its extensive collections

Arrival and Registration

Land acknowledgement

Officiating the summit by David Smith, MPP Scarborough Centre (Virtual)

Will be introduced by Alice Hope Birungi, ED, ADSON

Keynote Address: “Harnessing the Power of Black Excellence for a Future of Recognition, Justice, and Development”

The keynote address will focus on the transformative impact of Black excellence in driving forward the themes of recognition, justice, and development. It will explore how the achievements and contributions of people of African descent have not only shaped the past and present but are essential in building a brighter, more equitable future. The address will emphasize the importance of recognizing and celebrating Black heritage, advocating for justice and systemic change, and fostering development opportunities that uplift and empower Black communities in Canada and globally

Coffee Break-All delegates

Plenary Session 1. Virtual/Physical
Dismantling Systemic Racism: Policy Change and Economic Empowerment for Black African Canadian Communities

• Criminal Justice Reform: Examining over-policing, sentencing disparities, and advocating for fair treatment within the justice system.
• Political Representation and Civic Engagement: Encouraging greater political participation and representation and overcoming civic engagement barriers.
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Lunch break-All delegates

Plenary Session 2. (Virtual/)
Achieving Equity in Education and Healthcare among Black African Canadian Communities
• Educational Reform: Addressing educational inequities, representation in the curriculum, and access to higher education.
• Access to higher education
• Cultural Competency inn health care

Open Discussion

Coffee Break

Interactive Workshop Session (Virtual/ Physical): “Empowering the Next Generation: Youth Engagement and Mentorship”

• Building entrepreneurial skills
• Mentorship Programs
• Development leadership skills
• Mental Health and well being

Immigration and resettlement, key challenges

Closing Remarks

Harmony of Heritage: Celebrating Excellence-An African Descent Ontario Awards Gala and Music concert

The African Descent Ontario Art and Culture Evening will celebrate African art, music, and culture through exhibitions and performances. This event will feature dance, fashion, and music as a means of conveying social justice messages and fostering a deeper understanding of African Canadian heritage and contributions.