November 2024

Ending Violence Against Black Women in Canada: Building Safer Communities Together November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, shines a light on the need to address and end gender-based violence (GBV) worldwide. However, the experiences of Black Women in Canada often go overlooked. Due to systemic inequalities, racism, and barriers within the legal and healthcare systems, Black Women experience unique forms of violence that require dedicated attention and support. Velma Carter Centre is committed to creating a platform that supports, empowers, and educates on the urgent need to address violence against Black Women. A Closer Look at Gender-Based Violence Against Black Women in Canada While gender-based violence is a national and global crisis, Black Women in Canada face additional challenges. The Canadian Women’s Foundation reports that nearly half of Canadian women will experience some form of violence in their lifetime. Black Women, however, are disproportionately impacted, facing both gendered and racial violence that makes seeking support difficult and complex. In Alberta and across Canada, Black Women are often forced to navigate systems where racial stereotypes and systemic discrimination impact the quality and accessibility of care they receive. Understanding the Statistics and the Reality of Gender-Based Violence Some key facts help illustrate the specific challenges faced by Black women: Economic Disadvantage: Black Women in Canada are overrepresented among women experiencing poverty, a factor that increases susceptibility to GBV (Statistics Canada). Economic vulnerability can limit a woman’s ability to leave unsafe situations, particularly if she lacks financial independence or access to safe, stable housing. Healthcare Disparities: Studies indicate that racial discrimination within healthcare makes it more difficult for Black Women to receive appropriate support, particularly when reporting abuse or seeking help for mental health issues related to trauma (Women’s Health in Women’s Hands Community Health Centre). The fear of judgment, disbelief, or mistreatment often results in underreporting among Black survivors of violence. Distrust in Law Enforcement: Black Women often experience racial profiling and bias from police, leading to a lack of trust in law enforcement. In cases of gender-based violence, many Black Women avoid reporting incidents out of fear that they or their families will face additional harm or discrimination from authorities.   Barriers Faced by Black Women in Alberta In Alberta, support for Black Women experiencing Gender-Based Violence is limited, and available resources are often not culturally relevant. Organizations like Velma Carter Centre in Edmonton are working to bridge this gap by advocating for Black Women, creating safe spaces, and offering culturally sensitive support. Such programs are vital because they provide understanding, validation, and resources specifically geared toward the unique needs of Black Women. Empowering Black Women and Building Resilient Communities Creating a future free from violence against Black Women requires a community-based approach. Advocacy, allyship, and support from Black Women and their allies are necessary to drive systemic changes. Here are a few ways we can collectively empower Black Women: Advocate for Policy Change and Funding: Significant changes need to happen at a policy level to secure adequate funding for culturally relevant support services. By advocating for increased funding for Black-led organizations, we can ensure that more resources are available to address the specific needs of Black Women facing violence. Raise Awareness Within Black Communities: Many survivors of violence feel isolated or unsupported, especially if they fear that they will be misunderstood or judged within their own communities. Raising awareness within Black communities and fostering open dialogues around GBV can encourage survivors to seek help. Education campaigns tailored to the Black community can create a safer space for women to come forward. Develop Safe and Accessible Spaces: Black Women benefit from community spaces and support groups that understand and validate their experiences. Organizations like the Velma Carter Centre in Edmonton work to provide safe spaces where Black Women can connect, share their stories, and receive support without fear of stigma or discrimination. The Role of Allies in Supporting Black Women While Black-led organizations are crucial to this mission, allies also play a significant role. Supporting Black Women and their unique experiences with gender-based violence requires active allyship, which can take several forms: Support Anti-Racism and Cultural Sensitivity Training: Healthcare providers, social workers, and law enforcement need anti-racism and cultural sensitivity training to reduce biases and ensure that Black Women receive fair and compassionate treatment when reporting violence or seeking support. Encouraging such training in community organizations and advocating for it at a policy level can help build a more inclusive support system. Provide Financial and Resource Support to Black-Led Organizations: Many organizations working to address violence against Black Women face chronic underfunding. Donations and funding to groups like the Canadian Black Women’s Health Network can make a significant difference in expanding the reach and impact of their services. Raise Awareness Through Educational Resources: Sharing information about culturally relevant resources like shelters, hotlines, and trauma support tailored to Black Women can make it easier for survivors to find help. Allies can play a role in spreading the word and ensuring that resources are widely available and accessible. Resources for Black Women Experiencing Violence If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, there are organizations in Canada providing support: Black Women United YEG – Based in Edmonton, this organization advocates for Black Women’s rights and provides safe spaces for survivors. Canadian Black Women’s Health Network – Focuses on health equity and addresses gender-based violence within Black communities across Canada. ShelterSafe – Offers a list of shelters across Canada, some of which provide culturally sensitive services for Black Women.   The Importance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women On this day of awareness, we honour the resilience of Black Women who have survived gender-based violence and commit to creating a safer, more just society for future generations. Recognizing and addressing the intersection of race and gender in the context of violence is essential to ending the cycle of abuse. It’s not only about amplifying Black Women’s voices but also ensuring that

Roots of Resilience: Health and Wellness Lessons Black Women Can Learn from Indigenous Communities in Canada As we celebrate Indigenous Health Month, we reflect on the strength, resilience, and holistic health practices that have long been part of Indigenous cultures in Canada. Velma Carter Centre’s mission includes uplifting Black Women by sharing knowledge, fostering connection, and strengthening community bonds. By learning from Indigenous approaches to health and wellness, we can find guidance, strength, and unity that helps us navigate our own wellness journeys. This month, let’s look to Indigenous health traditions in Canada, with a special focus on Alberta, for insights on how we can enhance our well-being as Black Women through holistic, community-centred practices. Holistic Health: Embracing Wellness for the Mind, Body, Spirit, and Community In many Indigenous cultures, health isn’t just about the physical body; it’s a full-spectrum approach to life that encompasses mental, spiritual, and communal well-being. A powerful example of this can be seen in Alberta’s Indigenous Wellness Core, which operates under Alberta Health Services to provide culturally relevant wellness programs. One initiative, the Indigenous Birth Support Worker Program, offers Indigenous doulas to support women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. The program blends traditional birthing knowledge with modern medical care, supporting women on their health journey in a way that respects their culture and holistic wellness. For Black Women, this whole-person approach to wellness is a vital reminder that we can’t pour from an empty cup. Instead of focusing solely on physical health, we can draw inspiration from Indigenous teachings to explore practices that center mental wellness, spirituality, and community. Incorporating rituals, wellness practices, and family support systems—whether that’s through herbal teas, mindfulness, or connecting with loved ones—can empower us to thrive more fully. Key Takeaway: Start small by incorporating holistic practices into your routine. Perhaps it’s a grounding meditation, a family tradition, or connecting with nature to find balance. Drawing from cultural or ancestral wisdom can help build wellness habits that nurture every part of your being. Intergenerational Knowledge: Healing Through Stories and Connection Indigenous cultures often place a high value on the wisdom of Elders, who pass down knowledge, practices, and traditions that nurture healing and connection. In Alberta, organizations like the Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association promote intergenerational healing through cultural programming, workshops, and Elder-led guidance. Elders’ teachings aren’t just about the past—they’re relevant for daily life, mental resilience, and finding balance in modern society. For Black Women, there is a deep parallel here. Many of us hold close to the teachings and wisdom passed down through family members, especially older women who share stories of resilience and survival. This intergenerational knowledge is powerful because it provides not just lessons but a deep sense of identity and belonging. Drawing on the strength of family wisdom helps us remember where we come from and gives us a foundation for navigating today’s challenges. Key Takeaway: Make time to connect with the Elders in your family or community. Their stories and experiences can be a source of strength, especially during tough times. Listening to family stories, sharing traditional recipes, or simply asking about their experiences can deepen your sense of resilience and help guide your wellness journey. Further Reading: Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association Indigenous Wellness Core, Alberta Health Services Community-Led Health Solutions: Taking Control of Our Health In Alberta, Indigenous communities have shown the strength and effectiveness of community-led health solutions. The Bigstone Health Commission, operated by the Bigstone Cree Nation, is an example of how Indigenous people are addressing community health issues. The Commission provides culturally relevant healthcare that incorporates traditional medicine alongside Western approaches, demonstrating how a tailored, community-led approach can address unique health challenges in a culturally affirming way. Similarly, Black communities can learn from this by advocating for and participating in health initiatives that center our experiences, from mental health to preventive care. The Black-led Sickle Cell Foundation of Alberta is an example of how health initiatives can be community-driven, focusing on awareness, education, and support for people affected by sickle cell disease. When communities lead these efforts, the results are often more effective and meaningful because they address the unique health needs of our people in a way that mainstream healthcare may overlook. Key Takeaway: Support and engage in community-led health initiatives, whether they focus on preventive health, mental wellness, or specific health challenges. Find local organizations or online communities that focus on Black health and wellness, where you can connect with resources and people who share your experiences. Further Reading: Bigstone Health Commission Sickle Cell Foundation of Alberta Building Solidarity and Health Equity Together Indigenous and Black communities in Canada face unique health disparities due to systemic inequities, but there is great strength in standing together. When we advocate for culturally responsive healthcare, both communities benefit. In Alberta, organizations like Boyle Street Community Services and Calgary’s Centre for Newcomers are working toward more inclusive and supportive healthcare for diverse communities. Through collaborations, training healthcare providers on cultural humility, and advocating for policy changes, these organizations aim to create a more equitable healthcare system. Black Women can join in this advocacy by supporting partnerships and initiatives that work to address health inequities. Standing together with Indigenous communities can amplify our voices, creating greater impact in pushing for healthcare that respects and includes our unique identities and cultural backgrounds. Key Takeaway: Get involved in advocacy and support organizations that work for culturally inclusive healthcare. Use your voice to speak up for health equity, either by supporting initiatives like those at Boyle Street Community Services or by encouraging healthcare providers to receive cultural competency training. Further Reading: Boyle Street Community Services Centre for Newcomers, Calgary Conclusion: Learning and Growing Together The health traditions of Indigenous communities in Canada offer us a roadmap for resilience, healing, and wellness. As Black Women, we can draw on these lessons to nurture ourselves and our communities, building wellness practices that are grounded in culture, connection, and care. From honouring the wisdom of our Elders

Why Gut Health Is Essential for Black Women’s Wellness Gut health isn’t just about digestion; it’s about total body wellness. For Black Women, understanding the connection between our gut and our overall health can be life-changing. From the way we absorb nutrients to how we process stress, our gut plays a pivotal role. But, let’s be real—gut health can often feel like something out of reach or not spoken about enough within our communities. Here at the Velma Carter Centre, we want to break the silence around gut health. Let’s get into how you can empower yourself with knowledge and make your gut a priority in your wellness journey. How Your Gut Health Affects Your Whole Body Your gut isn’t just where food goes—it’s practically the control center for many systems in your body. Think of your gut as a team of bacteria and microorganisms working hard to keep everything in balance. When that balance is disrupted, it can show up as more than just an upset stomach. You might feel tired, moody, or experience skin issues, weight fluctuations, and even problems with sleep. Why is this important for Black Women? Black Women often face disproportionate levels of stress and, as research shows, stress directly impacts gut health. The gut-brain connection means that what happens in our mind (stress, anxiety, depression) affects our digestion—and vice versa. The Stress Connection: A 2019 study from the Journal of the National Medical Association highlights that Black Women are more likely to experience chronic stress due to a variety of factors, including racial and socioeconomic inequities. Chronic stress can lead to imbalances in the gut microbiome, which may contribute to conditions like IBS, fatigue, and even autoimmune issues. Mood and Gut Health: Depression and anxiety, both common in our community, can also be connected to an unhealthy gut. Studies show that poor gut health can reduce the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to happiness and well-being. So, it’s no wonder that when our gut is out of balance, our mood can dip as well. The Foods You Love Can Heal Your Gut We are blessed with cultural foods that are rich in nutrients and naturally good for our gut. The key is to make small, intentional changes that blend ancestral wisdom with modern science. 1. Embrace Fermented Foods From kenkey to sour porridge, many African and Caribbean dishes are naturally fermented and packed with probiotics, the good bacteria your gut needs to stay healthy. According to research published in Nature Microbiology, adding fermented foods to your diet can increase gut diversity, helping to protect against digestive disorders and boosting overall immunity. 2. Go Heavy on Fiber Our traditional meals—like okra stew, beans, and sweet potatoes—are fiber-packed. Fiber is a powerful tool for your gut, as it feeds the healthy bacteria and helps keep digestion regular. A study inThe Lancet confirms that high-fiber diets lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and digestive conditions that disproportionately affect Black Women. 3. Cut Back on Processed Foods We all love a quick snack, but processed foods often contain additives that harm your gut. It’s time to swap some of those out for whole foods—like plantains, yams, and leafy greens—that nurture your body from the inside out. Gut Health and Hormonal Balance Black Women are uniquely affected by conditions like fibroids, PCOS, and endometriosis, all of which have hormonal and inflammatory components. Recent studies from The Journal of Women’s Health suggest that gut health plays a role in managing estrogen levels, which are central to these conditions. A balanced gut can help metabolize excess estrogen, reducing symptoms and supporting better reproductive health. Managing Fibroids Naturally: A study in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found that women with balanced gut bacteria were less likely to experience severe fibroid symptoms. This means that by caring for your gut, you can potentially lessen the burden of conditions that disproportionately affect Black Women. Gut Health and Fertility: Women trying to conceive can also benefit from better gut health. According to research in Fertility and Sterility, gut health can influence hormone regulation, and improving your gut microbiome may enhance fertility outcomes. This is especially important for Black Women, who often face higher rates of infertility. Holistic Steps to Nurture Your Gut and Thrive Here are some simple, holistic steps that you can take to support your gut health and live your best life: 1. Stress Management Make it a priority to get a mammogram every one to two years, starting at age 40 or earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer. Many healthcare facilities in Canada offer free mammograms as part of routine care. If you’re unsure where to start, ask your healthcare provider or visit your nearest health center to schedule a screening. 2. Herbal Remedies Traditional remedies like ginger, turmeric, and peppermint are excellent for gut health. Incorporating these herbs into your diet or as teas can soothe the gut and support digestion. A 2020 study from the Journal of Nutrition found that ginger can reduce inflammation and improve gut motility. 3. Prioritize Sleep Sleep is when your body repairs itself, including your gut. Lack of sleep has been linked to gut dysbiosis, leading to digestive issues, mood swings, and more. Try to create a sleep routine that ensures you’re getting enough rest for your body and gut to recover. 4. Hydrate with Intention Water is your best friend when it comes to digestion. Staying hydrated keeps things moving smoothly in your gut, helps absorb nutrients, and flushes out toxins. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water per day, and try adding lemon or cucumber slices for extra detox benefits. Gut Health is Self-Care, Sis Taking care of your gut is one of the most powerful ways you can practice self-care. By nurturing your body from the inside out, you’re investing in a healthier, more vibrant you. Whether it’s incorporating more fibre, focusing on stress management, or adding probiotic-rich foods into your diet, small changes can make