This session explores the Provincial HSJCC’s Anti-Racism Framework, offering practical strategies to embed anti-racist practices the human services and justice sectors. Learn how to meaningfully engage with Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities, leverage advocacy, and use race-based data to drive change. Gain key insights and lessons learned to create more equitable and inclusive systems.
Presenters:
Shereen Rampersad | Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Manager, Services and Housing in the Province (SHIP)
Shereen Rampersad is the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at Services and Housing in the Province (SHIP). She has worked with SHIP for over 18 years in many areas of the organization but as the EDI manager since May 2022. She is also a board member of the Regional Diversity Roundtable board of directors. Shereen is a social worker who has spent her career working with diverse populations within the mental health, addictions and supporting housing field. Shereen is a community leader and staunch advocate for enhanced access and services within the community that meet the needs of the people whom she serves.
Valerie Danieli
Valeria Danieli is a person with lived and living experience and serves as co-chair for the HSJCC Anti Racism Advisory Committee. She is currently pursuing her Juris Doctor at Osgoode Hall Law School.
Duane Lea
Duane Lea is a first generation Canadian born and raised in Toronto. His 15+ years of professional work has ranged from business entrepreneur to advertising/marketing consulting. Then, he switched his gaze after a sudden leg amputation, where he now uses his skillset to aid in providing grassroots engagement work, community anti-Black racism and accessibility advocate. By sitting on committees in Toronto, he has connected with various healthcare industry professionals for EDI and anti-oppression lenses. His current advocacy work includes HSJCC ARAC Framework Working Group and Focus Group Facilitator to Event Host with planning and community engagement for Mental Health and Addictions / Healthcare priority community events. Admittedly, laser-focused eyes make each one of his multi-pronged goals happen. It is key to aid in efforts as a community healthcare advocate committed to building awareness of community services and programs. This work has allowed him to use his lived experiences with racism to become a toolkit of sorts. Aptly, starting young as a teenage parent to an adult Black businessman and now an engaged disabled community member aiding in discussions aimed at making meaningful ideas lead to real change in Toronto and beyond. Essentially, working to help our independence through both day-to-day needs and choices or life’s variety of work/life balance for settlers and Indigenous peoples alike. He’s always looking at our interconnected views of action on this land and with a wish to enrich Canada’s cultural mosaic together.
Presented by the Provincial Human Services and Justice Coordinating Committee on November 5, 2025.