Black Women in Motion Charity

Tending to growth and fostering resilience, Black Women in Motion stands as a beacon of empowerment within the Toronto landscape. With the nurturing touch of water, they cultivate the strength of Black women, girls, nonbinary, and gender-non-conforming survivors of gender-based violence, transforming them into a wellspring that nurtures the broader community.

Originating as a survivor-led, grassroots initiative, Black Women in Motion is firmly entrenched in its Toronto roots. Guided by an anti-racist, intersectional feminist, trauma-informed, and survivor-centric ethos, the organization channels its energy to generate culturally relevant resources, healing spaces, education, and economic opportunities for survivors.

Born from a York University Research Project named "Engaging Girls Changing Communities," championed by Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine and Professor Nombuso Dlamini, the organization took its first breath in January 2013. From that moment, the team at Black Women In Motion has become an indispensable force within the gender justice and community development ecosystem. Their indelible impact encompasses pivotal education, comprehensive support, and healing services for Black victims and survivors of violence. Collaborating with small businesses, academic institutions, and community-oriented service entities, they confront gender-based violence and dismantle rape culture both on individual and systemic scales.

For Monica Samuel, Founder and Executive Director, this journey is imbued with purpose and responsibility. She proclaims, "It is my duty as a Black woman to ensure the well-being, prosperity, and advancement of Black survivors. We have endured the unfathomable - and we are still here. We are poignant, prolific, and radiant. We draw our strength from our blackness, ancestry, and lived experiences to fight systemic oppression and injustice, while educating others, so that they can do the same."

Resonating with unapologetic Blackness, Black Women in Motion's commitment to survivors of gender-based violence shines brightly. With integrity, transparency, and accountability at its core, the organization navigates its path with utmost sincerity. Upholding equity, intersectionality, and the notion of belonging, they are steadfast in their mission to eradicate anti-Black racism, discrimination, and gender-based violence.

The essence of respect permeates every facet of Black Women in Motion's operation. Acknowledging the diverse lived experiences of their clients, they sculpt an inclusive haven that embraces survivors of intersecting identities and backgrounds. This respect extends internally, fostering an environment where the voices, skills, experiences, and contributions of their staff, placement students, and volunteers are not just valued but cherished.

Collaboration fuels the heart of their endeavor, as strategic partnerships and alliances with sector leaders, community agencies, businesses, and grassroots collectives elevate their advocacy and support for Black survivors.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Black Women in Motion crafts services that are not only client-focused but also innovative and culturally attuned. Their ongoing review of policies, procedures, and practices underscores their dedication to maintaining quality and aligning with organizational and sector standards. Through this multifaceted commitment, Black Women in Motion nurtures survivors into beacons of strength and advocacy, ensuring that the ripples of their work extend far beyond the immediate boundaries of their community.