Thames Valley District School Board announced the development of an Anti-Black Racism Strategy yesterday during a Black History Month Reception at the board’s Education Centre.

“As a school board, it is our responsibility not only to educate future generations about the continued importance of Black history, but also to take immediate and sustained action against anti-Black racism in our schools and workplaces,” said Mark Fisher, Director of Education. “I am proud to announce that work is underway on an Anti-Black Racism Strategy for the Thames Valley District School Board, which will outline the concrete and measurable actions we will take as a board to make Thames Valley more welcoming for Black students, families and staff.”

The Anti-Black Racism Strategy will be directly informed by input from Black-identifying students, parents, caregivers and community members.

“Student and community voices are so important to the work that we do as a board. We are pleased to support meaningful engagement where we can listen and learn from students, families and members from the Black community,” said Beth Mai, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “We look forward to continuing this work to foster equity, diversity and welcoming learning environments for all.”

Thames Valley is working with Dr. Nicole Kaniki, Director of the equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) consulting firm Senomi Solutions Inc., to connect with members of the Black community and support development of the Anti-Black Racism Strategy. Dr. Kaniki is a research methodologist with equity, diversity, and inclusion expertise, skilled in strategic implementation of organizational EDI.

The Anti-Black Racism Strategy is planned to release in February 2025.