Overview
The tri-campus Accessibility offices at U of T are seeking to learn about the experiences of Black-identified students who are registered with Accessibility Services (either presently registered or going through the registration process). This desire has been informed by efforts within the University to improve access for equity–deserving groups.
The goal of this learning process is to develop a more welcoming space for Black-identified students within Accessibility Services, and to create a report on Anti-Black Racism. This will be done through co-creation with Black-identified students around improving access to Accessibility Services for their community, as well as by reviewing relevant literature and data from other post-secondary institutions.
Survey consultation
In this endeavour, we consulted with Black-identified students via survey from mid-February to early March 2025. This survey contained questions around the types of support and/or services that would be most beneficial, challenges experienced due to one’s Black and disabled identity and recommended changes. We received a good response rate, and the results will be included in the final tri-campus report and share-back session.
Community Sharing & Art Creation Session
Further, as part of this initiative, we will be hosting a Community Sharing and Art Creation Session (Wednesday, April 2nd from 5:30pm - 7:30pm). This session will involve food, a chance to engage in community with fellow Black-identified students registered with Accessibility Services, an overview of the Anti-Black Racism project and an art-creation session.
Creating art based on black and disability identity experiences.
We are thrilled to be working with talented community artist, Andre Mandela Lopez, who will engage with attendees to learn about their experiences and support the co-creation of art that reflects these diverse experiences. All participants will be provided with art materials to participate. The artist aims to create a piece that honours the intersectional identities of being Black and living with a disability. Your ideas and input will be invaluable in shaping this artwork.
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🚨 Note that this is a hybrid event, so that those who cannot attend in person can do so virtually. 🌐
Andre Mandela Lopez
Andre Mandela Lopez is a multidisciplinary visual artist and healing arts educator whose work beautifully bridges creativity and community. With a background in political science, he channels his passion for social justice and collective liberation into a vibrant artistic practice that spans digital illustration, sculpture, murals, and tattoos.
At the heart of Andre’s art is a deep commitment to themes of healing, love, respect for nature, and togetherness. He believes that art is a powerful tool for personal and collective transformation. Through his community initiatives, Andre fosters environments where individuals can tap into their innate creativity and reconnect with their inner child. By promoting play and exploration, he encourages self-love and deeper connections with ourselves and the natural world.
Andre’s mission is to inspire a heart-centered revolution, inviting people to express their creativity and cultivate a sense of belonging. Through both his art and community work, he aims to nurture a profound connection to nature and to one another, paving the way for a more compassionate and inclusive society.