Halton Black Voices is powered by dedicated volunteers, leaders, and board members working to uplift Halton’s Black community. Help us create lasting change!
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In the wake of global conversations about racial inequity, Gennile Thomas-Smith saw a need for change — one that moved beyond discussion to meaningful, lasting action. As the founder of the non-profit organization Halton Black Voices (HBV), she envisioned a space where Black residents in Halton could share their stories, celebrate their culture, and advocate for systemic change…
Halton Black Voices is a community organization based in Halton Region, Ontario, dedicated to dismantling systemic racism and empowering Black communities. Our mission is to create safe spaces for Black youth, families, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, while advocating for inclusivity, equity, and social justice. We work to ensure the well-being of Black residents, challenge societal inequities, and foster meaningful partnerships for positive change. Through our initiatives and events, we aim to amplify Black voices and confront the structures that perpetuate injustice.
HBV has introduced 40+ programs designed to support, engage, and connect the Black community in Halton. From educational initiatives like Equity Learning Space to community events like Healing Cookout and Black Campout weekend, these programs focus on creating opportunities and fostering deep connections.
More than 500 students have participated in our programs, gaining access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities to grow. These initiatives, like Halton Black Student Union and Deep Roots aim to provide meaningful experiences and lasting benefits.
True collaboration is foundational to our collective work. We’ve partnered with 11+ organizations to expand our reach and build a stronger community of support, working together to address the needs of the Black community and under-resourced Halton.
Halton Black Voices offers programs grounded in their core values of Wellness, Education, Leadership, and Community. These initiatives are designed to promote youth empowerment, personal growth, community development, and social change by providing valuable resources and support. Through these programs, participants can build connections, develop meaningful skills, and contribute to creating a more inclusive, equitable, and socially aware community.
We organize collective Black healing events and initiatives that prioritize the mental health and well-being of our community.
We empower individuals to transform awareness into action, creating spaces and experiences that support underserved residents and newcomers.
We provide alternative learning opportunities rooted in anti-oppression, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment of growth and understanding.
We strive to strengthen communities by raising awareness, educating, and empowering Black community members and allies of all ages and abilities.
Getting involved with Halton Black Voices means becoming an active part of a movement dedicated to empowering the Black community in Halton. You can join us as a member to show your support and stay connected, explore our impactful programs that promote wellness, youth empowerment, and education, or take action by volunteering, donating, or partnering with us to drive meaningful change. Every effort counts, and together we can build a stronger, more inclusive community.
From Wellness to Education, we have initiatives designed to empower and inspire for all ages.
Halton Black Voices is powered by dedicated volunteers, leaders, and board members working to uplift Halton’s Black community. Help us create lasting change!
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The space provided a sense of belonging and togetherness where we felt safe and empowered to discuss the struggles as well as success we have had dealing with systematic racism, anti Blackness as well as white supremacy within our individual lives.
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I believe this space that’s been created and helps Black kids is great. An amazing organization that I would have loved my daughter to be on. From hearing her brother’s sessions she often asks ‘When is my tutoring?’ This is a testament that clearly demonstrates the strong appeal of your program to kids!
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We collaborate with partners to create impactful programs that uplift Halton’s Black community.