By Sydney Alexandra, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
In the wake of global conversations about racial inequity, Gennile Thomas-Smith saw a need for change — one that moved beyond discussion to meaningful, lasting action. As the founder of the non-profit organization Halton Black Voices (HBV), she envisioned a space where Black residents in Halton could share their stories, celebrate their culture, and advocate for systemic change.
“After George Floyd’s murder, I was propelled into a deep educational journey. I was reading, listening, and critically analyzing viewpoints on anti-Black racism. It was a reckoning for me — a moment of clarity about the need for change. That’s what led me to community organizing and thinking about what that could look like for the Black community.”
However, Thomas-Smith’s journey to launching Halton Black Voices wasn’t defined by a single moment. It was shaped by years of lived experience, a call for change, and a deep desire to create a sense of belonging for Black voices in a region where they have often been underrepresented.
“I did a lot of relearning and rethinking about Black history, anti-Black racism, and policing. Living in Oakville, I saw a lack of diversity in my community, and at the height of the COVID-19 lockdown, I couldn’t travel to Toronto or other spaces to build those connections, so I started with the protest.”
“Students — both racialized and white — began reaching out, wanting to organize protests that prioritized Black folks and Black voices. That’s how I got involved. In many ways, the students started Halton Black Voices. It began in the streets and evolved into what it is today.”
“In its early stages, our focus was mass education — connecting with people eager to learn. We hosted book clubs and used social media to discuss topics like defunding the police and reimagining public safety. The goal was to educate our neighbours and peers about how community investment, rather than increased policing, leads to safer neighbourhoods. We wanted to provide educational resources for my neighbours and for my peers to understand.”
As Halton Black Voices evolved, its mission solidified around four core values: community, education, wellness, and leadership. These pillars continue to guide the organization’s initiatives.
“Community, education, and wellness are at the heart of our work. We’re establishing ourselves as a pillar in the community for Black, brown, and queer folks — something that hasn’t been done collectively before in Halton. I think that’s why we’re gaining attention. What we’re doing is innovative and needed.”
Thomas-Smith continues, “We are ensuring racialized members of our community have a space to connect and a space that encourages people to create fuel their passion, to empower them. I hope to provide folks the opportunities to take time for themselves, dream big, and become a community.”
To date, Halton Black Voices has launched over 40 programs serving students, families, and adults of all ages. One standout initiative is Deep Roots Basketball, a drop-in program where youth can connect with other members of the community and receive mentorship from coaches. Thomas-Smith’s dedication to this and the other initiatives stems from a commitment to serving the community and paying forward the support she once received.
“The program comes from my personal experience — I played basketball growing up, and we’d always meet at Woodlands in Mississauga. It was a safe space where we could rely on each other. Deep Roots Basketball is an opportunity to give back and create that same sense of community for young people today.”
The program runs every Monday and Friday in various Oakville locations for youth aged 15 and older, providing a safe space to train, play basketball, and receive mentorship from peers and coaches.
Another initiative close to Thomas-Smith’s heart is the Gardening Healing Project, where HBV volunteers plant and maintain community vegetable gardens focused on food sovereignty and sustainability.
“It’s about equal access to food. We considered those in our community who may not have the financial means or transportation to access grocery stores. We’re giving people the opportunity to grow their own food, right in their backyards.”
From grassroots initiatives to the creation of the HBV Library at 454 Rebecca Street in Oakville, Halton Black Voices has created an inclusive “third space” where community members can gather, learn, read, and connect. Halton Black Voices hopes this space will have a lasting impact on the region.
Thomas-Smith’s love for books and education was the driving force behind the HBV Library. She wanted a space that highlighted books by Black, Indigenous, and racialized authors, as well as a collection of banned books that had been challenged due to content related to race and social justice.
She also recognized a growing disconnect in community engagement, with social media becoming the dominant form of communication. The library serves as both a reading space and a hub for authentic connection.
“The library is a co-working, co-creating space. People can come in, work, read, and have meaningful conversations. I think many people are exhausted by social media, and I wanted to create a real-world space for connection — one where people can engage beyond the screen.”
Halton Black Voices continues to shape the broader movement for racial justice in Canada. Its impact reaches beyond Halton, inspiring advocacy and community-building efforts in neighbouring regions.
Thomas-Smith hopes that the organization’s legacy will be one of transformation — ensuring that Black voices in Halton are not just acknowledged but truly celebrated. She envisions a future where Black, brown, and queer individuals find belonging and empowerment in their community, with organizations like HBV as pillars of social change.
“I don’t want to leave a personal legacy. I don’t want Halton Black Voices to be remembered as an individual effort — because it came from the community. It was a collaborative effort. What I truly hope for is that Halton Black Voices evolves into a lasting movement. We need more organizations like this.”
Thomas-Smith’s vision has blossomed into a movement that uplifts Black voices in Halton through education, wellness, and leadership. What started as a response to injustice has become a powerful force for advocacy and transformation. Halton Black Voices has become a home for those seeking belonging, a space for learning, and a testament to the strength of collective action. As Thomas-Smith and her community continue to push forward, the organization reaffirms that representation matters and strives to build a future grounded in resilience and unity.
Halton Black Voices is always looking for volunteers, donors, and funders to support its programs and initiatives. The organization is also seeking dedicated individuals to join its Board of Directors or Advisory Board. If you’re passionate about community advocacy and want to play a role in shaping the future of Halton Black Voices, consider reaching out to learn more.
To get involved, support, or learn more about Halton Black Voices’ work, visit www.haltonblackvoices.ca.
