Moving Forward Together

The Moving Forward Together Project is a transformative educational initiative that seeks to unsettle racism, silence, and violence within health and social service systems. Rooted in Africentric principles and guided by the wisdom of Senator Dr. Wanda Thomas Bernard, the project develops educational modules for students and professionals that ignite awareness and build the necessary skills to respond meaningfully to gender-based violence and anti-Black racism.

This work goes beyond surface-level learning. It challenges learners—and the project team itself—to confront the discomfort of silence, the normalization of violence, and the systemic nature of anti-Black racism. The team’s aim is not just to educate, but to shift hearts, minds, and institutions.

The 12-member project team has prioritized trust, accountability, and relationship-building, creating a foundation for honest reflection and shared learning. This includes deliberate practices to redistribute power and centre the voices of those most impacted by racism and gender-based violence. The concept of Ubuntu—"I am because we are"—has inspired a culture of compassion, reciprocity, and collective care within the team, fostering an environment where learning is deeply relational and healing is possible.

By encouraging learners to critically examine the policies, practices, and structures that perpetuate injustice, the Moving Forward Together Project supports the transformation of individuals and institutions. Through this work, we aim to interrupt cycles of harm and co-create more equitable, just, and accountable systems of care.