REST(OR) REFORM CONFERENCE announced by Kujipenda Cultural Centre
The newly announced REST(OR) REFORM CONFERENCE, dedicated to advancing social justice and institutional transformation, is scheduled for October 24, 2024, at the Ajax Convention Centre. Presented by Kujipenda Cultural Centre, including a policy forum sponsored by One Vision One Voice, this event will bring together professionals, thought leaders and direct service personnel to engage in uplifting discussions, policy forums and action-oriented sessions. The conference was developed to reinvigorate and motivate the advocacy community, galvanizing them to persist in their endeavours.
This highly anticipated event will feature a multidisciplinary speaker lineup, including Allison Hector-Alexander, Dr. Akwatu Khenti, Iona Sky and Randell Adjei, with more speakers to be announced. In light of increasing apathy and challenges to diversity, equity and inclusion, the conference will tackle critical social justice challenges facing marginalized communities in Canada, including Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQ+ and people with disabilities. Its goal is to promote institutional change and develop strategies for equitable organizational practices.
The One Vision One Voice program will present a policy forum led by Vania Patrick-Drakes with over ten dynamic facilitators. The program focuses on addressing anti-Black racism and supporting improved outcomes and equitable services for African Canadian children, youth and families in Ontario’s child welfare system. In 2021, the Black population in Durham Region represented 9.6 per cent of the total population. A notable 14.8 per cent of children cared for by Durham Children’s Aid Society were Black as of 2021.
“We find ourselves in a critical juncture where HR-centric DEI investments are dwindling and the spirit of social justice and equity across various sectors is waning, compounded by the fatigue endured by those at the forefront of addressing disparities and disproportionalities. This current climate demands our focused attention. It is precisely the reason we have convened the REST(OR) REFORM CONFERENCE — to recalibrate and refocus our efforts on the persistent issues affecting our communities,” said Keishia Facey, co-founder, REST(OR) REFORM CONFERENCE.
“Ajax is known for having the highest Black population in Ontario and out of any major Canadian city. This underscores the importance of our conference location. Our mission is clear: to equip attendees with the indispensable tools and strategies needed for fostering equitable change within organizations, nurturing profound professional relationships and championing the cause of inclusive practices,” said Nicole Perryman, co-founder, REST(OR) REFORM CONFERENCE.
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