Thoughts on Black History Month
from Tatum Wilson, Youthdale’s recently appointed CEO
As a Black Leader, Tatum Wilson, Youthdale’s recently appointed CEO, offers some thoughts on Black History Month, including his reflections on being the great-great grandson of Albert Jackson, Canada’s first Black mail carrier (pictured). There is a lot to be proud of for how far we’ve come, but much work lies ahead.
As we near the end of Black History month, I wanted to share some thoughts and perspectives as the new CEO of Youthdale. This is my first time working in a front-line service agency, and in 5 short weeks here, the importance and urgency of equitable access to services and treatment is even more evident to me now, than in my previous work in system policy and advocacy.
I take my responsibility as a CEO in recognizing these important months of the year seriously, and I want to honour both the important work that Youthdale has already done, and the work that still lies ahead.
First, I want to recognize the efforts across the organization to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion, generally. It is clear to me, even in my early days here, that there is a philosophical commitment to these principles, and that commitment matters – to our staff, to our clients, and to the communities we serve. But I have also learned that, as an organization, we are not perfect, and collectively, we are not getting everything right.
As a Black leader, I am also conscious of the responsibility and opportunity that comes with this role. Before joining Youthdale, I served as the CEO of Children’s Mental Health Ontario, with over 80 member organizations, and it was striking to me to realize that across the province, there are only a small number of Black and racialized CEOs in child and youth mental health. Representation matters. I know, from my own experience, the importance of seeing yourself reflected in leadership – of believing that there is space for you to grow, to lead, and to contribute.
At the same time, I am mindful that our clients reflect the full diversity of Toronto – a vibrant city where not everyone has equitable access to services, supports, or opportunities. For many of the children, youth, and families we serve, systemic barriers are a daily reality. That context makes our work not only important, but essential.
Black History Month is both a time to celebrate the contributions, resilience, and leadership of Black communities, and a time to reflect on the ongoing work required to address inequities. For us at Youthdale, this connects directly to our mission. Providing high-quality mental health care means ensuring that our services are accessible, culturally responsive, and grounded in equity and belonging.
As a new leader here at Youthdale, I am committed to learning from our staff – on how we are serving Black and racialized clients, where we are making progress, and where we can do better. The insights, experiences, and ideas will be critical as we move forward together, as an organization.
This month provides an opportunity to use this moment to reflect and, where needed, to recommit – to the changes we can make at Youthdale, to the role we can play beyond our walls. Whether in how we deliver care, support one another as colleagues, or engage with our partners and community, there is always more we can do.
As you’ll see in this post, there are a few pictures. Some may be familiar with the name Albert Jackson. He was Canada Post’s first Black Mail Carrier, and was recognized in several ways, including a stamp. He was born in Delaware in 1857 and made his way to Canada with his family on the underground railroad. I mention him because he is my Great-Great Grandfather. On one hand, I’m filled with so much joy and pride that I have this connection to him. But sadly, our family learned about him and his role in breaking down barriers, only about 15 years ago. Which reflects the sad reality that, collectively, we don’t learn the narratives and histories of large parts of our community. But I’m an optimistic person, and I know that things are changing. I share his story, both perhaps to inspire, but also to say that my commitment to continued learning runs deep in me and my history, and I’m hopeful we can continue down the learning path, here at Youthdale.
While I recognize that there is still much work ahead, I am grateful to be on this journey with Youthdale. I am proud to be part of an organization that is committed to learning, to growth, and to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children, youth, and families, in the city, and beyond.
