Origin Story
In Fall 2017, four Black Queer and Trans community leaders got together to create a program to better support the needs of Black LGBTTQ+ youth in the City of Toronto and the GTA. Our goal was to launch a project that was culturally informed for, by, and with our community and respond to a major service gap in the youth sector.
Our Vision: We envision a world where Black LGBTQ+ individuals are thriving and are able to achieve their dreams and aspirations free of hate, prejudice, and systems of oppression.
Our mission: We provide a safe and welcoming environment for Black Queer youth, Black Trans youth, and those questioning their identity.
Our Values:
We value Afro-centric principles of Unity, Collaboration, Mutual Respect, Collective Care, Shared responsibility and Reciprocity.
About Us
The Black Queer Youth Collective (BQYC) is a Canadian Social Enterprise founded in 2017 with the social purpose of providing opportunities and support to Black LGBTQ+ youth (16-29 years old).
Our Approach: We use progressive frameworks that empower individuals and combat hate: Anti-Oppression/Anti-Black Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Gender Inclusion, Disability Justice, LGBTQ+ Inclusion, and Human Rights.
Our commitment
We are committed to creating spaces for Black LGBTQ+ youth to connect and reflect on their life experiences.
We are committed to creating leadership opportunities for Black LGBTQ+ individuals.
We are committed to upholding our guiding principles within our work and how we work with others.
Our Collective Care Principles: Collaboration, Cooperation, Character, Compassion, Commitment.