REFLECTION & REASON

Desmond Cole is boldly unapologetic in action, in presence, and in print; when history reflect on this generation of Black Canadian leaders, freedom fighters, and those who weren't afraid to stand up for what they believe to be true...his name will be amongst those upheld. Depending on who you ask or what you watch...his name might bring forth images of public disturbances and inappropriate appearances in otherwise regulated spaces. The fact is, we have all seen Desmond Cole standing up in protest at Board meetings, and speaking up against a range of issues from immigration, to racial profiling, and police brutality. We know he is someone at the forefront of movements, and someone who doesn't back down. Thanks to his 2015 article " The Skin I'm In " in Toronto Life magazine, we also learned that he had been harassed by the police dozens of times, through no fault of his own. He became the expert in "carding" and someone who was unfortunately, well-versed...

Here is a list of 50 Black writers in Toronto. Some are household names in the Black Toronto community--well known in Canada, in Africa,  and the Caribbean. Most of us are embedded into a life of writing...eternally. Most of us will continue to write, and create, and document, and share...because it's simply what we love to do. We are telling our Black Canadian stories. We are recording history. These are only 50 of many Black writers in Toronto: published, self-published, and aspiring. These 50 were selected for this particular list, because they all graciously registered/presented in our annual Book Expo between the years 2014 and 2018. Connect to their profiles, get to know their individual stories, and discover their books. Order one or two...because many of these writers are changing lives with their words, intelligence, creativity, and inspiration. Support this passion. Encourage this practice. Do take a moment and listen to what they have to say. 01) Adrian Sterling...