Scarborough Charter on anti-Black racism and Black inclusion

Post-secondary institutions across Canada have signed on to the Scarborough Charter—representing a commitment to take concrete, meaningful action to address anti-Black racism and promote Black inclusion in Canadian higher education.

Created with input and collaboration from students, faculty, staff, relevant organizations and Black political and civic leaders, the Charter reflects our shared recognition of the realities of anti-Black racism and provides a concrete path forward to address these and create a more inclusive future.

Creation of the Charter

Work on the Charter began in October 2020, when universities, colleges and other partners came together in conversation on how to meaningfully address anti-Black racism and Black inclusion. From there, the Inter-Institutional Advisory Committee (IIAC) for the National Dialogues and Action began drafting the Charter, drawing from the input received from members of the community and sector.

Further consultations on the drafted Charter took place from March to June 2021, in which partners from Canadian universities and colleges took part in shaping the principles, actions and accountability measures contained within.

Dozens of universities and colleges across the country took part in the virtual signing of the Charter on November 18, 2021.

For more information or to download the Charter, visit the University of Toronto Scarborough’s web page.

Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

Universities Canada members are committed to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion and addressing all forms of systemic racism on our campuses and in our communities. The Scarborough Charter serves as a useful resource for universities, as we work to address anti-Black racism and effect positive change in the higher education sector.