Celebrating Black Women Making an Impact: A Black History Month Tribute
Every February, Black History Month gives us the opportunity to reflect on the rich legacy of Black leaders, artists, activists, and changemakers whose efforts continue to shape the landscape of Canada. This month at NEW, we are recognizing the remarkable contributions of 3 Black women who have been at the forefront of advocacy, justice, and social change. We’re proud to spotlight three extraordinary Black women who are driving change and empowering communities: Debbie Douglas, Atrisha Lewis, and Nadine Spencer.
Debbie Douglas: Advocating for Immigrants and Refugees
As the Executive Director of the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI), Debbie Douglas has dedicated her career to ensuring that newcomers, particularly African refugees, receive the support and services they need to thrive in Canada. Douglas’s advocacy has focused on addressing the systemic barriers that immigrants and refugees face, especially the challenges posed by anti-Black racism and xenophobia.
Under her leadership, OCASI has championed the rights of refugees, calling for policies that promote inclusion, equality, and fairness. Debbie Douglas's work not only uplifts African refugee claimants but also challenges the broader social injustices that continue to affect marginalized communities. Through her tireless dedication, Debbie Douglas has become a beacon of hope for newcomers in Canada.
Atrisha Lewis: Championing Justice and Equity in Law
Atrisha Lewis is a distinguished lawyer whose work has placed her at the forefront of efforts to combat systemic racism in Canada’s legal system. As a member of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers, Lewis gained national recognition for her pro bono work, including a landmark case before the Supreme Court that challenged the use of peremptory challenges in jury selection, a practice that disproportionately affected racialized individuals.
Peremptory challenges allowed lawyers to dismiss potential jurors without explanation, often leading to the exclusion of racialized individuals from juries. By challenging this practice, Atrisha Lewis helped ensure fairer trials and greater representation in the justice system.
Her legal advocacy seeks to create a more just and equitable system, breaking down barriers for marginalized groups and ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment under the law. Atrisha Lewis's determination and expertise have made her a role model for the next generation of legal professionals and social justice advocates.
Nadine Spencer: Leading with Purpose in Business and Social Responsibility
Nadine Spencer is a Jamaican-Canadian businesswoman and the President and CEO of BrandEQ Group, a leading public relations and communications agency. Nadine is an influential voice in the business world, where she advocates for diversity, inclusion, and corporate social responsibility, with a particular focus on the Black community.
Through her leadership at BrandEQ, Nadine has worked to elevate diverse voices and promote ethical business practices. She is passionate about driving change within the corporate sector, ensuring that businesses not only thrive but also contribute positively to society. Nadine Spencer’s commitment to empowering others has made her a trailblazer in the field of public relations and a key figure in advancing racial equity in business.
Debbie Douglas, Atrisha Lewis, and Nadine Spencer are making history through their unwavering dedication to justice, equality, and social progress. Their impact goes far beyond their individual achievements; they are shaping the future of Canada and inspiring countless others to follow in their footsteps. This Black History Month, we celebrate their incredible contributions to our society and continue to honor the legacy of Black excellence that thrives in our communities today.