Inclusion Through Representation and History

Black History Month is a time to honour the stories, contributions, and resilience of Black communities, and to reflect on how history continues to shape our experiences today. For those of us working in the LTC sector, it is also an opportunity to think more deeply about what belonging truly looks like for residents and families.

This month, I supported the planning of a storytelling presentation led by Donald Carty, a leader whose work is grounded in lived experience, compassion, and equity. Donald has been an engaged caregiver to his mother, father, and brother, giving him firsthand insight into how LTC systems impact families. Beyond caregiving, he has spent decades in civic leadership, serving as Co-Chair of the Barrie and Area Ontario Health Team, Co-Chair of Barrie’s Anti-Racism Task Force, and National Health Fellow at McMaster University. Since joining FCO’s Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Anti-Racism Council (DIERAC) in 2021, he has been a tireless advocate for LTC, consistently affirming that every resident deserves to feel seen, valued, and treated with dignity.

In his presentation, Donald spoke about the power of representation and belonging. When residents, families, and staff see themselves reflected in leadership, policies, and care practices, it builds trust and strengthens relationships. Representation is not symbolic; It shapes how care is delivered, how voices are heard, and whether people feel safe showing their full identities in care environments.

Belonging does not happen automatically. It is cultivated through listening, accountability, culturally responsive care, and a willingness to challenge systems that were not originally designed with Black communities in mind. This responsibility does not sit solely with Black residents, families, or staff. It belongs to all of us across the LTC sector. Donald also reminded us that systemic barriers and historical trauma continue to influence the experiences of Black residents and families. These realities do not disappear when someone moves into congregate living.

As a member of the Black community with aging loved ones who have complex care needs and rich personal histories that deserve attention and support, these conversations are more than professional reflections for me. They are personal. I think about what it means for my own family members to enter spaces where their stories are understood, their cultural identities are respected, and their care needs are met with compassion and competence. I hope to see continued growth in how LTC homes engage with history, culture, and lived experience in ways that are thoughtful and responsive.

When history is acknowledged, voices are represented, and belonging is nurtured with intention; LTC becomes more than a place to live. It becomes a place where people can truly feel at home. Belonging requires ongoing learning, reflection, patience, and care. It is work that continues well beyond Black History Month, and it is work we must choose together, every day.