This article reports on an original study exploring the experiences of Black Caribbean youth who have navigated the child protection system in Ontario, Canada and discusses their reflections on the significance of caregiver's race in their experiences of out-of-home care. In 2015, the Children's Aid Society of Toronto (CAST) released data showing Black youth as representing 40.8% of youth in their care despite the Black population only accounting for 8.5% of the Toronto population. The same report indicated that 72% of Black children in out-of-home care with this agency were in foster or kinship homes with Black caregivers (CAST, 2015). Data on caregivers' race for other agencies in Ontario is currently unavailable to the public (OHRC, 2018). However, a growing collection of anecdotal accounts from Black youth and their families suggests that it is common for Black youth in out-of-home care in Ontario to be placed in homes with White caregivers
<p>This article reports on narrative interviews conducted as part of the Rights for Children and Youth Partnership Project exploring the experiences of 25 Black Caribbean youth (ages 16-26) who have navigated the child protection system in Ontario, Canada. An introduction to transracial fostering in Ontario is provided, and participants’ reflections on the significance of caregiver’s race in their experiences of out-of-home care are presented. Critical Race Theory and AntiBlack Racism are used as theoretical frameworks to guide the discussion. Themes discussed include adapting to White environments and community visibility; appropriate haircare, skincare, and food in placements; navigating whiteness and anti-Black racism; and sense of connection with caregivers. </p>
<p>This article reports on narrative interviews conducted as part of the Rights for Children and Youth Partnership Project exploring the experiences of 25 Black Caribbean youth (ages 16-26) who have navigated the child protection system in Ontario, Canada. An introduction to transracial fostering in Ontario is provided, and participants’ reflections on the significance of caregiver’s race in their experiences of out-of-home care are presented. Critical Race Theory and AntiBlack Racism are used as theoretical frameworks to guide the discussion. Themes discussed include adapting to White environments and community visibility; appropriate haircare, skincare, and food in placements; navigating whiteness and anti-Black racism; and sense of connection with caregivers. </p>
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