Program Overview

Introduction

The Annual African Descent Summit (AADS2024) is an international convention dedicated to celebrating, recognizing, uniting, and enhancing the voices of people of African descent in Canada and worldwide and committed to promoting and protecting their dignity and rights.

Now in its fourth edition, the summit will take place from July 17th to 20th, 2024, at the Toronto Pavilion, 190 Railside Rd, North York, ON M3A 1A3.

The summit will bring together a diverse group of policymakers, entrepreneurs, students, academics, researchers, professionals, entertainers, sports personalities, and celebrities of African descent. The event will honor their achievements and contributions, foster a platform for dialogue and reflection, and address the key barriers that hinder their progress and transformation in line with the United Nations international decade for people of African Descent theme; Recognition, Justice and Development .

Context

According to Statistics Canada, in 2021, 1.5 million people in Canada identified as Black, with the majority being of African descent. This population is diverse, with nearly one-third (32.6%) born in Africa, including countries like Nigeria (7.1%), Ethiopia (2.8%), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (2.4%), and 21.0% born in the Caribbean and Bermuda, primarily from Jamaica (8.8%) and Haiti (7.2%). The Black population in Canada continues to grow, with the largest increase (+349,000) occurring from 2016 to 2021. Projections indicate that the Black population could double from 1.5 million in 2021 to more than 3.0 million by 2041.

This population group represents the diversity, dreams, talent, skills, and incredible potential for Canada’s future. They embody resilience, with their unique stories and unwavering spirits serving as a beacon of hope and strength, signifying a bright future for Canada. However, despite their contributions and unmatched talents, Black Canadians and people of African descent face systemic barriers that impede their progress.

On January 30, 2018, the Government of Canada announced several commitments to address the needs of Black communities across the country, with a particular focus on those of African descent in Canada, including collaborating with community organizations to drive positive change. The Prime Minister endorsed the Decade in Canada, committing to learn more about issues facing Black communities, which included improving research and data collection. On February 7, 2024, the Prime Minister announced an extension of these federal efforts until 2028.

Systemic Barriers

• Economic Disparities: Higher unemployment rates, and limited career advancement.
• Educational Inequities: Disproportionate school discipline, lack of representation in the curriculum, and barriers to higher education.
• Housing Discrimination: Rental market discrimination and residential segregation.
• Healthcare Inequities: Challenges in navigating the healthcare system and Lack of culturally appropriate mental health services.
• Criminal Justice System: Over-policing, sentencing disparities, and overrepresentation in the prison population.
• Political and Social Representation: Underrepresentation in political offices and civic engagement barriers.
• Intersectional Discrimination: Additional challenges for Black women, immigrants, and refugees.
• Entrepreneurial Gaps: Access to Capital, Networking Opportunities, Discrimination and bias, underrepresentation and slower growth of black owned businesses

According to the 2020 General Social Survey on Social Identity, 58% of Black people aged 15 years or older reported experiencing discrimination in the five years before the COVID-19 pandemic. This discrimination was prevalent in workplaces, stores, banks, restaurants, and educational institutions.

Theme and Objectives of the Summit

The Annual African Descent Summit 2024 will be convened under the theme “Recognition, Justice, and Development,” commemorating the United Nations International Decade of African Descent as it winds down. The summit will also align with this year’s Black History Month theme, “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build.” The event will celebrate the rich past and present contributions of Black people in Canada while aspiring to embrace new opportunities for the future.

Objectives

1. Celebrate and recognize the achievements and contributions of Black Canadians.
2. Provide a platform for dialogue, reflection, sharing, and learning.
3. Address systemic barriers and promote strategies for amplifying the voices of people of African descent.
4. Highlight the diversity and talents within the Black community in Canada and worldwide.

Key Highlights of the Africa Descent Summit Activities and Detailed Program 2024

1. Opening Ceremony

Keynote Addresses: Delivered by prominent figures in the Black community and allies, focusing on the theme of “Recognition, Justice, and Development.”

Cultural Performances: Showcasing traditional African and Afro-Caribbean music and dance to set a celebratory and inclusive tone for the summit.

2. Panels and Workshops

• Systemic Racism and Policy Change: Discussions on comprehensive approaches to dismantling systemic racism and advocating for policy changes.
• Economic Empowerment: Strategies to address employment discrimination, wage gaps, and career advancement for Black Canadians.
• Educational Reform: Addressing educational inequities, representation in the curriculum, and access to higher education.
• Healthcare Access and Equity: Tackling biases in medical treatment, improving mental health services, and promoting overall healthcare equity.
• 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.
• Entrepreneurship: Highlighting successful Black entrepreneurs in Canada

3. Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

Entrepreneurial Showcases: Highlighting successful Black-owned businesses and creating opportunities for networking and mentorship through Exhibitions.

Youth Engagement Sessions: Workshops and mentoring sessions aimed at empowering young people of African descent to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

4. Closing Ceremony

Summary of Key Takeaways: Presentations on the outcomes of discussions and workshops, and the establishment of a roadmap for future actions.

Commitment to Action: Collective pledge by participants to continue advocating for the rights and dignity of people of African descent and to implement the strategies discussed during the summit.

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

The African Descent Ontario Summit 2024 Awards Gala & Concert is a prestigious evening dedicated to honoring the achievements, contributions, and cultural heritage of individuals of African descent in Ontario, Canada. The event will serve as a cornerstone of recognition, justice, and development within the framework of the International Decade for People of African Descent.

In alignment with the objectives of the International Decade for People of African Descent, this event seeks to amplify the voices and narratives of individuals of African descent, while fostering dialogue and action towards achieving recognition, justice, and development for this community. Through celebrating excellence, the Gala & Concert aims to showcase the rich heritage, resilience, and achievements of African descent individuals, while advocating for their rights and advancement in all spheres of society.

Awards Ceremony: The highlight of the evening will be the awards ceremony, where outstanding individuals of African descent across various fields including but not limited to arts, culture, education, entrepreneurship, Policy and social justice  will be recognized for their exemplary contributions. The awards will recognize individuals who have harnessed their talents to foster collaboration, learning, and social impact among Black African Canadian communities. These awards will also serve as a symbol of inspiration and empowerment for the entire people of African Descent in Canada.

Awards Category:

1. Exceptional Youth Influencer
2. Artist and Entertainment Award
3. Academic Excellence Award
4. Humanitarian Award
5. Health and Wellness Advocate Award
6. Community Leadership Award
7. Lifetime Achievement Award
8. Social Justice Advocate Award
9. Entrepreneurship Award
10. Cultural Heritage Preservation Award
11. Immigration and Settlement support Award

Cultural Showcase: The Gala & Concert will feature captivating performances, exhibitions, and presentations showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of the African diaspora. From traditional music and dance to contemporary art forms, attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrancy and richness of African culture, fostering greater understanding and appreciation. The concert will feature performances from new Black Canadian, East African artist Vinka, Juno Award winner Jamaican- Canadian Korexion, and Legendary Afro-American Gen. Megga Dee

Conclusion

The Annual African Descent Summit 2024 will be a pivotal event that celebrates the past and present contributions of Black Canadians while aspiring to embrace new opportunities for the future. By uniting voices and promoting the dignity and rights of people of African descent, the summit aims to foster a more inclusive and equitable society in Canada. This event will provide a comprehensive platform for addressing systemic barriers, celebrating diversity and talents, and driving meaningful change in the lives of Black Canadians and people of African descent worldwide.

Sessions

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

Session Description

This panel session will focus on comprehensive strategies to dismantle systemic racism through policy change and economic empowerment among Black African Canadian Communities. Experts, policymakers, and activists will discuss the critical intersections between systemic racism and economic disparities, exploring how policy reforms can drive economic equity and inclusivity for Black African Canadians. The session will highlight actionable solutions to employment discrimination, wage gaps, and barriers to career advancement, aiming to create a more equitable economic landscape.

Session Objectives

• Identify Systemic Barriers: Examine the root causes of systemic racism in economic policies and practices.
• Propose Policy Reforms: Discuss and advocate for policy changes that address employment discrimination and economic inequities.
• Economic Strategies: Develop strategies to promote economic empowerment, including support for Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurial initiatives.
• Collaborative Solutions: Foster collaboration between policymakers, businesses, and communities to implement effective economic reforms.
• Raise Awareness: Increase awareness of the economic challenges faced by Black Canadians and the importance of policy-driven solutions.

Questions for Speakers/Panelists

1. What are the most effective policy changes that governments at all levels can implement to address systemic racism in the workplace, and how can these policies be enforced?
2. How can businesses and organizations play a role in bridging the wage gap and creating more opportunities for career advancement for Black African Canadians?
3. What role can community organizations and grassroots movements play in advocating for economic empowerment and policy reform, and how can they collaborate with policymakers?

Plenary Session 2: Achieving Equity in Education and Healthcare among Black African Canadian Communities

Session Description

This panel session will address the critical issues of educational inequities and healthcare access and equity. It will bring together educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to discuss the systemic barriers faced by Black Canadians in education and healthcare. The session will focus on improving representation in educational curricula, ensuring fair disciplinary practices, and enhancing access to higher education. In healthcare, the discussion will tackle biases in medical treatment, the need for culturally appropriate mental health services, and strategies to improve overall healthcare outcomes.

Objectives

• To address and propose solutions for educational inequities, including curriculum representation and fair disciplinary practices.
• Identify and address biases in medical treatment and improve access to quality healthcare for Black African Canadians.
• Develop strategies to provide better support and mentorship for Black students and healthcare recipients.
• Advocate for policies that promote equity in education and healthcare.
• Community Engagement: Engage with communities to understand their needs and develop targeted interventions that improve educational and healthcare outcomes.

Questions for Speakers/Panelists

1. What specific strategies can be implemented in schools to ensure that Black students see themselves represented in the curriculum and receive equitable treatment in disciplinary actions?
2. How can healthcare providers be trained to recognize and mitigate implicit biases in medical treatment, and what steps can be taken to improve access to culturally appropriate mental health services for Black Canadians?
3. In what ways can policymakers and healthcare institutions work together to address the social determinants of health that disproportionately affect Black Canadians, such as housing, income, and access to nutritious food?

Interactive Workshop Session: “Empowering the Next Generation: Youth Engagement and Mentorship”

Workshop Description

This interactive workshop session will focus on mentoring and empowering young people of African descent to pursue their dreams and aspirations. Aligned with the theme of “Recognition, Justice, and Development” and in commemoration of the United Nations International Decade of African Descent, the session will celebrate “Black Youth Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build.” The workshop will provide a dynamic and engaging platform for youth of African Descent to connect with mentors, gain valuable insights, and develop strategies for personal and professional growth.

Objectives

1. Inspire and Motivate: Encourage young people of African descent to recognize and celebrate their heritage while pursuing their dreams with confidence.
2. Provide Mentorship: Connect youth with successful mentors from various fields to share experiences, guidance, and practical advice.
3. Develop Skills: Offer interactive activities and sessions focused on developing essential skills such as leadership, networking, and goal setting.
4. Foster Community: Create a supportive environment where young participants can build networks and relationships with peers and mentors.
5. Promote Opportunities: Highlight opportunities for education, entrepreneurship, and community engagement that can help youth achieve their aspirations.

Workshop Agenda

1. Welcome by the workshop facilitator.
2. Keynote address by a prominent youth leader or mentor, emphasizing the importance of recognizing heritage and building a bright future among Canadian Black youth or African descent.
3. Breakout Sessions: Skill-Building Workshops. Participants will split into smaller rotation groups for interactive workshops (20 minutes each)

• Group 1: Leadership and personal development, techniques for building self-confidence, setting goals, and leading with integrity.
• Group 2: Career planning and networking, strategies for career exploration, resume building, and effective networking.
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Guidance on starting and sustaining a business, including business planning and innovation.

Mentorship circles with mentors from various professions:  “Meet Your Mentor”

Throughout the summit, there will be mentors from various professions. These mentors will share their experiences and offer the youth, personalized advice, and answer questions.