“We cannot stop talking about equity. About the legacies of capitalism, racism, and enslavement. What that has done to people. What that has done to Indigenous people. What that has done to Black people.”

-Clovis Grant, Prevention Matters! Episode 2

Understanding the “whys” behind homelessness is essential to effectively addressing it today. Even with good intentions, acting without understanding the context can lead organizations down the wrong path in their prevention efforts.

To commemorate Black History Month 2025, February’s Prevention Matters! panel highlighted often-overlooked pieces of history that underlie modern experiences of homelessness for Black communities. Panelists then discussed how we could address these historical factors in order to advance homelessness prevention, highlighting lessons from their current work.

Watch the recording now for critical insights into the history that must be understood to address Black homelessness in Canada!

Angela’s opening poem, “Hit the Road Jack”, and closing poem, “A Home from A Shack”, can be found in her book, “Unspoken Truth: Unmuted and Unfiltered.”

Learn more about our host and panelists below!

HOST

PA SALLAH DRAMMEH is a BioStatistician, Making the Shift Youth Homelessness Demonstration Projects, Canadian Observatory on Homelessness. In his position, Sallah utilizes his statistical expertise to conduct analyses and provide training to colleagues and students on quantitative data analysis and techniques. Sallah obtained a master’s degree in Biostatistics from McGill University’s Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health. His research interests revolve around the Statistical Design of Clinical Trials and the modelling of longitudinal data.

PANELISTS

ANGELA BOWDEN is a poet, author, and motivational speaker deeply committed to community and grassroots initiatives. She uses her voice to inspire, heal, and advocate for social justice, drawing from lived experiences and a passion for uplifting others. Angela currently serves as the Capacity Manager with DownTheMarsh Community Land Trust in Truro, Nova Scotia.

DR. MARIE CECILE KOTYK is an assistant professor at the University of Calgary (School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape). She has over 15 years of experience as a Social Planner in the housing and homelessness sector. She is recognized for her expertise in promoting spatial equity and social justice. Throughout her career, she has effectively collaborated with stakeholders including governments, private and public organizations, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, Indigenous groups, Black communities, and individuals with lived and living experiences.

As a student in SAPL’s Doctor of Design program, she developed the Black Housing Equity Framework (BHEF) to combat anti-Black racism and advance Black inclusion in the housing and homelessness sector.

REV. DR. DENISE GILLARD is a consultant, published author, and African Canadian history buff who believes that sharing stories brings people closer together. Among the many hats she wears, Rev. Denise currently serves as a Vice-Chair with the DownTheMarsh Community Land Trust. She has served in ministry for 25 years and managed non-profit organizations for 20 years. Rev. Denise is passionate about empowering and activating safe, impactful, and accountable leaders to make a positive difference in the world.