Overview

Racism and discrimination can shape experiences and outcomes for children and youth at critical stages of development. As part of Ontario’s Anti-Racism Strategy, our government continues to advance initiatives that support Indigenous, Black and other racialized children and youth through targeted and culturally responsive approaches.

These efforts focus on strengthening supports across the education, child welfare and justice systems, while expanding access to culturally relevant programs and services that promote well-being, engagement and success.

By improving access to integrated supports, these initiatives aim to ensure that all children and youth in Ontario can build positive pathways and reach their full potential.

Improving child welfare, education and justice systems to better support children and youth

Indigenous Student Success Fund

The Indigenous Student Success Fund (ISSF) continues to support 45 publicly assisted colleges and universities in delivering culturally appropriate programs and services for Indigenous students. The fund reduces barriers to postsecondary education and strengthens Indigenous community involvement in institutional governance and program development.

In 2026, our government increased annual funding by $3 million, bringing the total to $21.2 million. This investment strengthens institutions’ ability to improve retention, participation and graduation outcomes for Indigenous students.

Our government is investing in talent, strengthening economic resilience and addressing evolving labour market needs. By supporting Indigenous student success and well-being, ISSF is shaping the skilled workforce our economy needs.

Children at Risk of Exploitation Units

Children at Risk of Exploitation (CARE) Units are specialized intervention teams of police officers and child protection workers, working with Indigenous Liaisons, to identify and locate children and youth who are being or at risk of being sex trafficked. CARE units connect them to community-based and culturally appropriate services and collect intelligence to support investigations of offenders.

CARE Units were implemented in Toronto and Durham Region in 2021. On average, each year the Toronto and Durham CARE Units serve over 200 children and youth. In July 2025, a third CARE Unit was implemented in Kenora along with specialized trauma-informed supports.

CARE Units are intended to be culturally responsive and reflective of the needs of the community they serve. Indigenous children and youth are at higher risk of being trafficked. To address the unique needs of Indigenous children and youth, CARE Units include Indigenous children’s aid societies and Indigenous Liaisons.

Youth Justice Services Redesign for Black and Indigenous Youth

The Youth Justice Services Redesign for Black and Indigenous Youth (the Redesign) is a multi-year initiative aimed at improving outcomes for Black and Indigenous youth involved in, or at risk of entering, the justice system. Across Ontario, the initiative continues to show strong engagement and measurable impact through community-led and culturally responsive programming.

In fiscal year 2025 to 2026, 843 youth participated in Black-led programs, including 728 Black youth. Of those, 74.7% reported improved life skills, abilities and knowledge. 69% reported increased self-esteem, well-being and positive behaviours. An additional 96 Indigenous youth participated in Redesign programming, with final outcome data to follow. Strong participation rates and ongoing collaboration with community partners demonstrate growing reach and effectiveness.

The Redesigns support safer communities through early intervention and prevention. In the coming year, work will continue with partners, including the launch of a new Black youth mental health program in summer 2026.

Targeted education supports for Indigenous, Black and other racialized students

Ontario supports a range of initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes with a focus on Indigenous, Black and other racialized students.

Expansion of Dual Credit Programs

Dual Credit programs help students who often face challenges graduating from high school by allowing them to earn both secondary school credits and postsecondary credentials at the same time. Students can take college or Indigenous Institute courses or participate in Level 1 apprenticeship training while receiving support from both their high school and the participating postsecondary institution.

Through school years 2022 to 2023 and 2024 to 2025, our government invested $6.33 million to expand access to Dual Credit opportunities, particularly for students facing barriers to graduation, including Indigenous learners. During this period, more than 3,200 dual credits were completed, helping students stay engaged in their education and work toward graduation.

By supporting successful transitions to college, Indigenous Institute and apprenticeship pathways, the Dual Credit programs help students build confidence, gain practical skills and prepare for future education and employment opportunities.

Funding is anticipated to continue in school year 2026 to 2027.

Licences and supports for reading programs and interventions

This initiative provides funding to school boards to support evidence-based reading instruction and early interventions for students who struggle with reading. It responds to data showing that some Indigenous, Black and other racialized students are overrepresented among those with lower reading outcomes and in special education programs. Funding for this initiative supports the purchase of instructional resources, licenses and professional learning to strengthen classroom teaching and targeted interventions.

In school year 2025 to 2026, $12.5 million supported implementation across the province. School boards reported that 27,000 educators received training and approximately 165,000 students accessed intensive reading supports. Outcomes show improved foundational reading skills, with about 43,000 students who were below grade level meeting or exceeding expectations by year-end.

Funding will continue through core education funding in school year 2026 to 2027, supporting ongoing improvements in literacy outcomes.

Early intervention in math for students with special education needs

This initiative provides funding to school boards to support early math intervention for students in kindergarten to Grade 8, with a focus on students with special education needs. Strengthening foundational math skills helps improve confidence and prepares students for success as they transition into intermediate grades and a de-streamed Grade 9.

School boards use funding for staffing, professional learning and targeted interventions, including math coaching, small group supports and instructional resources. In the school year 2022 to 2023, nearly 17,000 students participated. Results showed improved teaching practices and stronger student outcomes, with about 22% of students receiving interventions meeting grade-level expectations and similar improvements among those in modified programs.

This initiative supports Ontario’s broader efforts to address systemic barriers through de-streaming. Now embedded in Core Education Funding, it will continue to provide stable support to help students succeed in math.

Funding is anticipated to continue in school year 2026 to 2027.

Graduation Coach Program for Black students

The Graduation Coach Program for Black Students delivers direct aid to students through culturally responsive, mentorship-based supports, to improve academic achievement, well-being and school experiences. Graduation Coaches also collaborate with school staff and system leaders to help address barriers and strengthen inclusive learning environments for Black students in schools.

The program continues to show positive outcomes across participating school boards. The program has also expanded its reach and strengthened partnerships with schools, communities and families.

In school year 2024 to 2025, enrollment increased to 5,007 students, a 26% increase from the previous year, demonstrating the program’s growing reach and engagement. Student feedback highlights increased confidence, school engagement and access to trusted adult supports. The program also contributed to improved student achievement, with a 43% increase in the number of students earning an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) compared to school year 2023 to 2024, strengthening pathways to postsecondary education and employment.

In school year 2025 to 2026, funding of $6 million supported 46 Graduation Coaches across 26 school boards. Funding is continuing in school year 2026 to 2027.

Graduation Coach Program for Indigenous Students

The Graduation Coach Program for Indigenous Students provides year-round supports to First Nations, Métis and Inuit students in Grades 7 to 12 with the aim of improving student well-being and academic achievement. The supports help students attain an Ontario Secondary School Diploma and transition to secondary education, post-secondary education, training or the workforce. Graduation Coaches serve as advisors and caring adults. They also assist First Nations, Métis and Inuit students in navigating school board systems, structures and relevant policies to support in their transitions, academics and preparations for their future careers. The program also supports students transitioning from federally-funded/First Nations-operated schools to provincially funded schools.

The program currently supports 38 Graduation Coaches across 30 school boards. In school year 2024 to 2025, more than 5,700 students were supported by this program, with approximately 95% reporting satisfaction with the supports received. Outcomes show increased student engagement, attendance, credit accumulation and graduation rates.

The Ministry of Education is continuing funding for this program in school year 2026 to 2027 to strengthen student success and support positive long-term outcomes for First Nations, Métis and Inuit youth.

Elimination of discretionary suspensions for junior kindergarten to Grade 3 students

In 2020, a regulation came into effect to eliminate discretionary suspensions for students in junior kindergarten to Grade 3 to support more equitable outcomes for young learners. This change helps address the disproportionate impact of suspensions on Indigenous, Black and other racialized students with special education needs.

Suspension rates for these grades have remained low since the policy was introduced, while still allowing for mandatory suspensions where required. The approach keeps students in the classroom, supporting their social, emotional and academic development.

Ongoing supports are also provided for students who are suspended or expelled, helping them stay engaged in learning and improving long-term outcomes.

Board Action Plans on Indigenous education

Board Action Plans (BAP) on Indigenous education are supported through Core Education Funding to improve educational outcomes for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. This funding helps school boards deliver targeted programs and initiatives that support student success and well-being.

The funding also supports efforts to build knowledge and understanding among all students and educators about Indigenous histories, cultures, perspectives and contributions. By focusing resources on these priorities, BAPs help create inclusive learning environments, prepares First Nations, Métis and Inuit students with skills needed to thrive once they leave school, and strengthen relationships with Nations, Métis and Inuit communities.

The Ministry of Education will continue to support targeted programs through the BAP Component of the Indigenous Support Allocation under the Core Education Funding in school year 2026 to 2027.

Removing barriers and improving access to culturally relevant programs in early learning and childcare, education, child development, health, sports and recreation

Black Youth Action Plan

The Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP) supports Black children, youth and families through culturally adapted programs that provide prevention and early intervention, mentorship and pathways to education, employment and economic empowerment. Core programs, including Stop Now and Plan (SNAP), Youth Mentorship Program (YMP), Youth Outreach Worker (YOW) and Youth Opportunities Fund (YOF) receive a combined annual funding allocation of $8.7 million to improve well-being, overcome barriers, build skills and strengthen community connections. Other core programs, strengthen the capacity of families to support children and youth in their educational and developmental pathways.

In fiscal year 2024 and 2025, these programs showed strong results. SNAP participants demonstrated improved behavioural and academic outcomes, while YMP and YOW increased access to mentorship, job readiness supports and connections to education, training and employment services. Across SNAP, YMP and YOW there was an average increase of 19.2% in the number of Black children and youth accessing these programs. YOF projects supported youth in entering the labour market, developing leadership skills and creating culturally safe spaces to address impacts of racism. Participants reported increased trust in services delivered by providers who reflect their communities and lived experiences.

In fiscal year 2025 and 2026, Ontario invested $16.5 million in the Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP) Economic Empowerment Program to help Black youth and young professionals develop the skills needed for careers in high-demand sectors, including health care, information technology, film, the arts, automotive, and other skilled trades. Since early 2023, the Economic Empowerment Program has supported more than 33,000 Black youth and young professionals, helping participants build skills, and access opportunities that lead to high-quality employment.

Also, in fiscal year 2025 and 2026, the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism reviewed BYAP to ensure alignment with Ontario’s evolving economic and labour market conditions and the government’s Protect Ontario plan. BYAP advances Protect Ontario priorities by strengthening workforce participation, reducing risk factors and supporting entrepreneurship. Our government reaffirmed its commitment to the program through a $16.5 million allocation in the 2026 to 2027 fiscal year provincial budget, recognizing its positive impact and improved outcomes for Black youth across the province.

Black Employment Support Program

The Black Employment Support Program (BESP) is a culturally responsive initiative that aims to address the overrepresentation of Black individuals involved in the justice system. Delivered in adult correctional and youth justice settings, the program provides employment supports, skills training, career planning, education and post-release supports.

Since the program launched in January 2023 through May 2026, a total of 1,314 individuals have participated: 402 have graduated from the program, and 83 out of 136 individuals released to the community secured employment, while others continue to participate in training and receive additional supports. Participation in training, employment and support services continues to increase year over year.

By helping participants successfully reintegrate into their communities, BESP supports safer communities and helps reduce recidivism.

Community Aboriginal Recreation Activator program

The Community Aboriginal Recreation Activator (CARA) program supports up to 27 First Nations in hiring a recreation “Activator” to plan and deliver community-driven sport, recreation and physical activity programs. These programs are designed using local resources and partnerships with community-based organizations, ensuring activities reflect the needs and interests of each community. The program provides opportunities for Indigenous people of all ages to stay active, build connections and support overall well-being.

Since fiscal year 2018 to 2019, more than 67,000 Indigenous community members have participated in CARA-supported programs. This underscores the program’s ongoing reach and impact across participating communities.

The CARA program continues to support access to culturally relevant recreation and wellness opportunities. In the coming year, it will continue to provide community-based programming that promotes active living and strengthens community connections.

Inclusive Grassroots Recreation

The Inclusive Grassroots Recreation (IGR) program supports children and youth in accessing sport and recreation opportunities at the community level, with a focus on equity, diversity and inclusion. The program works with partner organizations that have strong community ties and experience addressing barriers faced by under-represented groups. These supports may include grants for local sport organizations or families, equipment and resources, training for coaches and leaders and direct program delivery.

Programming for fiscal year 2025 to 2026 is currently underway. Since its launch in 2021, the program has supported approximately 150,000 children and youth from under-represented communities to participate in affordable and accessible activities.

Sport Pathway for Ontario Native Wellness

The Sport Pathway for Ontario Native Wellness supports a coordinated network of opportunities for Indigenous Peoples of all ages and abilities to participate in sport, from introductory programs to higher levels of competition. Delivered in partnership with Indigenous Sport & Wellness Ontario, the program offers activities such as physical literacy and introductory sport programs, youth multi-sport camps, athlete and coach development, regional and provincial tournaments and family wellness initiatives.

In fiscal year 2025 to 2026, funding from the Ministry of Sport has supported the delivery of 45 programs, activities and events, reaching approximately 5,900 participants, including 3,451 youth. These programs help build skills, confidence and connections, while supporting culturally relevant sport and wellness experiences.

The Sport Pathway continues to expand access to inclusive and community-driven programming. In the coming year, it will build on this work by supporting ongoing participation and development opportunities for Indigenous athletes and communities across Ontario.

Youth Cultural Camps

The Youth Cultural Camps (YCC) program supports up to 10 Indigenous organizations to deliver culturally grounded programming for Indigenous youth and young adults. These programs focus on strengthening knowledge of traditional cultures and languages while building leadership skills through experiential and land-based activities. Youth participants learn directly from Knowledge Keepers and Elders, helping foster connection, resilience and a strong sense of identity.

Since the program launched in 2017, more than 2,300 camps and programs have been delivered, reaching over 70,000 Indigenous youth. These experiences support personal growth while promoting cultural continuity.

The YCC program continues to provide meaningful, community-led opportunities for Indigenous youth, strengthening identity, skills and well-being.

Community Partnerships to Combat Racism, Hate and Discrimination

Through collaboration with community partners, the Ministry of Education is advancing culturally responsive supports, services and resources to help address and prevent racism, hate and discrimination.

Pinball Foundation

The Pinball Foundation provides social supports for students from underserved communities who may be at risk of anti-social or violent behaviour. Through school-based and community programming, the initiative supports student well-being and academic success, particularly for marginalized and racialized children and youth.

In fiscal year 2024 to 2025, the program delivered school assemblies, in-school and after-school programming, community events and educator workshops. A total of 284 students reported stronger support from a caring adult, increased leadership skills and enhanced future goal setting, while 253 students reported a greater willingness to seek help. The program demonstrated strong outcomes in student well-being and leadership. Educator capacity was also strengthened, with 88 educators feeling better equipped to engage students and families. Participation exceeded targets, reaching 241 elementary students and 125 educators.

These supports will continue in the 2026 school year, helping students build positive skills, strengthen engagement in school and access supportive networks within their communities.

Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center

The Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies have delivered workshops for elementary and secondary school students to increase awareness and understanding of antisemitism, including its historical and contemporary impacts.

During the 2024 to 2025 school year, 53 workshops were delivered, reaching 10,810 students in Ontario. A hybrid delivery model, including both in-person and virtual sessions, enabled the program to significantly exceed its initial target of 1,500 students. In the 2025 to 2026 school year, the program intended to reach 1,000 students through the delivery of 25 workshops. Final results for the 2025 to 2026 school year will be available following submission of the Final Report on October 1, 2026. Funding will continue in the 2026 to 2027 school year.

These workshops continue to support student learning, increase awareness of antisemitism and encourage respectful, informed dialogue among students.

Focus on Youth

The Focus on Youth (FOY) program provides targeted supports to students who face barriers to learning and employment, including those linked to systemic inequality, racism and socio-economic disadvantage. For the 2025 to 2026 school year, participating school boards have been provided over $8 million to implement this program. By connecting youth to summer employment, leadership and learning opportunities, the program is helping them build their skillset and gain practical experience.

Students participating in FOY have reported increased confidence, improved mental health and a stronger sense of connection to their school and community. The program also supports youth in leading activities for younger students, helping to build leadership skills while expanding access to positive community programming. In the summer of 2025, over 1800 student were hired, and 239 community partners were engaged with school boards to offer programming to 68,210 students.

FOY continues to help address equity gaps by providing meaningful work experience and supports for youth. These efforts contribute to improved student engagement, well-being and readiness for future education and employment pathways. Funding is continuing in school year 2026 to 2027.

Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program

The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program (IYEP) supports Indigenous students in developing business, financial and leadership skills through a hands-on, two-credit course. Students learn key concepts such as business planning, marketing, money management and accounting, while building confidence and exploring real-world entrepreneurial opportunities. The program also helps students develop skills in communication, problem solving and innovation, and attitudes like perseverance and collaborative leadership that support success in school, postsecondary pathways and the workplace.

In the 2024 to 2025 school year, IYEP was delivered in 11 schools with 185 student participants and a 92% completion rate. Student feedback shows strong outcomes, with 79% reporting increased motivation to graduate and 68% indicating greater enjoyment of school. IYEP students reported positive entrepreneurial learning outcomes, with 87% reporting that they learned how to plan and start a business, and nearly 80% of students expressing increased interest in starting their own business.

The program is continuing to expand and was offered in 12 schools for the 2025 to 2026 school year. Funding is anticipated to continue in school year 2026 to 2027.

Supporting Safe, Culturally Responsive Care for Children, Youth and Families

The following initiatives are not included as part of the official Anti-Racism Strategy. However, they align with its objectives by strengthening culturally responsive supports and improving systems that serve Indigenous, Black and other racialized children, youth and families.

These initiatives focus on expanding access to culturally grounded education, mental health and child welfare services, while improving transitions, safety and continuity of care across systems. This includes strengthening partnerships with First Nations organizations, enhancing culturally appropriate care for Black children and families, and increasing access to timely, low-barrier mental health supports.

In addition, these efforts build system capacity through training, engagement and policy development, helping ensure services are more responsive to the diverse needs and experiences of children and youth.

Education Partnerships Program

The Education Partnerships Program supports First Nation student achievement through collaboration between First Nations, provincial education partners and Indigenous Services Canada. The program focuses on building partnerships, sharing expertise and coordinating learning initiatives across First Nation-operated and provincially funded schools. The Ministry of Education supports this work by funding three First Nation Political Territorial Organizations.

Project activities are delivered annually, from September to August. The initiative has supported over 2,000 First Nations students to learn Indigenous languages, participate in land-based learning and access supports to improve academic achievement.

Reported outcomes include strong participation and high satisfaction rates, with examples such as Indigenous language events, educator forums and annual gatherings supporting language revitalization and resource sharing. The program has also supported stronger relationships between First Nations and school boards.

The ministry is continuing funding for this program in school year 2026 to 2027 to support building stronger partnerships across First Nation-operated and provincially funded schools.

Student Transitions and Safety and Seven Youth Inquest

This initiative provides funding to support safe, consistent and culturally grounded transitions for First Nations students moving between their home communities and schools. Supports include transition navigators, mental health services, scholarships and educator training, with a focus on improving student well-being and educational continuity, particularly for youth travelling off-reserve.

The initiative has strengthened access to coordinated, culturally responsive services, helping improve the safety and overall well-being for First Nations students across the province. It also supports the implementation of recommendations from the Seven Youth Inquest through partnerships with First Nations communities.

The ministry is continuing funding for this program in school year 2026 to 2027 in effort to support safer education pathways and strengthen connections between students, families and communities.

Bilateral Initiatives and Engagement

This initiative provides funding to strengthen bilateral relationships with First Nations organizations to support student success and improve coordination between First Nations-operated and provincially funded schools. Funding helps build capacity for partners to provide input on provincial education initiatives and policies.

Funding has also supported successful activities such as Nishnawbe Aski Nation’s Land-Based Learning Gathering, which brings together educators and administrators to share leading practices.

Partner feedback continues to inform improvements to policies and initiatives, supporting more coordinated and responsive education systems.

The ministry is continuing funding for this program in school year 2026 to 2027 to support improved services and resources for First Nations students and their families.

Kujali: Caring for Black Children — Training for Foster Parents

Kujali is a mandatory training program designed to support foster parents in providing culturally responsive care for Black children and youth. The training is a free, self-paced eLearning course consisting of 4 modules that focus on building knowledge and skills to support the social, emotional and physical well-being of children in care.

Effective January 1, 2025, all new and existing foster parents are required to complete Kujali as part of the foster parent training directive. The training helps foster parents better understand and respond to anti-Black racism, including recognizing and addressing microaggressions.

By strengthening cultural awareness and practical skills, Kujali supports improved quality of care and more positive outcomes for Black children and youth in licensed out-of-home care settings.

One Vision One Voice

One Vision One Voice (OVOV) works to address anti-Black racism and improve outcomes for African Canadian children, youth and families involved in Ontario’s child welfare system. The program supports culturally appropriate, family-centred services, anti-Black racism training and leadership opportunities for youth and staff.

OVOV continues to support child welfare agencies in embedding race equity practices across service delivery and organizational culture. Activities include strengthening partnerships with community organizations, supporting youth engagement and conducting research to inform policy and practice. Recent work includes re-establishing the Youth Action Committee, consultations with mandated reporters and research with Black caregivers to better understand service experiences.

In the coming year, OVOV will share research findings and launch a public-facing e-module to support mandated reporters with practical, equity-focused tools to better support Black children and families.

Pediatric Recovery — Addressing Anti-racism in the pediatric health care system and capacity building

This initiative supports anti-racism and capacity building in the pediatric health care system through training, education and workforce development. It focuses on increasing awareness of anti-racism approaches among health service providers and supporting a more diverse pediatric health workforce.

In Q1 and Q2 of fiscal year 2025 to 2026, approximately 5,328 providers completed anti-racism training, with 108 anti-racism training and education sessions delivered and more than 180 tools and resources developed. Activities included research, policy development and the creation of advisory groups to inform program design, as well as organization-wide equity and inclusion training.

The initiative supports more comprehensive hiring practices and workforce development. Ongoing efforts include expanding mentorships, scholarships and internships for Black, Indigenous and racialized communities, and strengthening capacity to provide culturally safe care.

One Stop Talk/Parlons Maintenant (OST/PM)

One Stop Talk / Parlons Maintenant (OST/PM) provides immediate, low-barrier access to free, brief mental health counselling and navigation services for children and youth under 18 years of age. Services are available online or by phone, with support delivered by registered clinicians from participating child and youth mental health agencies. Sessions are available evenings and on Saturdays, with interpretation offered in over 200 languages, including American Sign Language and French.

To date, more than 5,000 children and youth have accessed virtual counselling through OST/PM. During sessions, clinicians work with clients and families to develop practical plans and connect them to additional community supports where needed.