Toronto District School Board and “Raise the Black Bar,” collaborate on a program that dismantles systemic barriers to law school!

BY PAUL JUNOR

The announcement of the launch of Raise the Black Bar (RTBB) is good news for Black students who want to pursue a career in the legal profession. It involves a collaboration between the law school and the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) to develop an innovative and creative program that will dismantle systematic barriers that prevent Black youth from gaining access to legal education. The program was launched on November 30^th at a ceremony at York’s Keele Campus.

Details about the launch were published online on the website: yorku.ca titled, “Breaking down barriers for Black high school students.” It was largely due to the initiative of the Black Law Students’ Association (BLSA Osgoode) that this program was able to get off the ground. There were about 100 high school students present who had an opportunity to explore Osgoode Hall Law School and listen to panel discussions with Black legal professionals on a wide range of topics. Examples of topics covered include: “So, you want to become a lawyer,” and “What can I do NOW to prepare for law school.”

Banusha Samuels, President of BLSA Osgoode stated, “We believe this is the first program of its kind focussing specifically on the needs of Black high school students. I’m optimistic that Raise the Black Bar is going to help create a whole new generation of Black law students and Black lawyers. I wish I had this when I was in high school.”

Mary Condon, Dean of Osgoode Hall Law School notes, “Beginning with the introduction of our holistic admissions policy 15 years ago, Osgoode has been a leader among Canadian law schools in breaking down barriers to inclusion. Osgoode’s goal is to be the most diverse, accessible law school in Canada. It is integral to our vision for excellence.

We’re proud and very excited to continue that tradition by partnering with Canada’s largest school board to create the Raise the Black Bar program. Like the TDSB, we believe to our core that diversity is our strength and the path to true excellence in the legal profession and beyond. Raise the Black Bar will open the door to a new generation of talented lawyers and we can’t wait to witness their amazing achievements.”

Colleen Russell-Rawlins, Director of the TDSB is excited about this innovative program, because it will be a launching pad for students to pursue their dreams of becoming lawyers. She states, “The Toronto District School Board is committed to improving the experiences and outcomes for Black students and is proud to partner with Osgoode Law School for the Raise the Black Bar initiative. This initiative is an incredible opportunity for Black secondary students to learn more about the diverse career options enhance their understanding of legal education and pathways and connect directly with Black law student mentors.”

Black high school students in the TDSB’s 110 secondary schools, especially those in Grades 10, 11, and 12 will be able to access the program. These students will be able to obtain vital information about the different career options in law, how to gain entry into law school, and where to get financial help. In addition, students will benefit from having Black mentors who will help them overcome hurdles and obstacles that are unique to them and shatter myths pertaining to: law, law school, and legal careers. Furthermore, these mentors will build a winning resume, cover letter and a know-how to network in professional and academic areas of interest prior to entering law.

There are plans in the work by RTBB organizers to visit a law firm and tour courts so that these students will be able to see the day in the life of a: lawyer, judge, or court clerk. Also, students will be able to participate in a mock trial that will help to enhance their written and oral advocacy skills. They will include a panel event where certain Black lawyers will present at the annual “Know Your Worth Youth Empowerment Conference.”