Research & Public Policy
Accessible research and policy analysis that supports advocacy, strategic planning, and community development.
Learn more →Afrikan-centred · Community-based · Canada and beyond
Building community leadership across generations.
Research, public policy, archiving, capacity-building, rites of passage, and community learning—advancing the priorities of African/Black communities in Canada and internationally.
Who we are
An incorporated, community-based institute advancing Afrikan-centred values, analysis, and the social, political, economic, and cultural priorities of African Canadians.
Our work
Research. Memory. Capacity. Action.
Our approach is explicitly anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and multidisciplinary—grounded in community collaboration and accountability.
Archives & Community Memory
Afrikan-centred histories, cultural records, and community narratives preserved for future generations.
Learn more →Capacity Building
Training, facilitation, and practical support that strengthens people, programs, and community organizations.
Learn more →Advocacy
Community-accountable work addressing anti-Black racism, child welfare, equity, and public systems.
Learn more →Community in practice
Learning, gathering, and moving with shared purpose.
The name we carry
Four paddles. One shared purpose.
Tabono is an Adinkra symbol meaning “oar” or “paddle” in the Twi language of West Africa. Four stylized paddles joined at the centre represent strength, confidence, persistence, and unity of purpose.
Principles and commitments
The African Liberation Charter
Tabono is preparing the African Liberation Charter — a statement of the principles and commitments that guide this work. The full text will be published here once it has been finalised with the community.
Read the charter →A signature pathway
African Rites of Passage
A guided process from identity to responsibility, held through reflection, intergenerational exchange, and community practice.
Separation
Stepping away from the everyday to notice what has shaped us and what we are ready to carry forward.
Transition
Guided learning, reflection, practice, and exchange with Elders, peers, and facilitators.
Integration
Returning rooted in identity, responsibility, and enduring community relationships.
Programs and initiatives
Learning shaped by community priorities.
GatheringsTabono Long LunchA shared table and a conversation on the critical issues of the day, held in the spirit of dialogue and accountability.
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Community learningLiberation LearningStudy and dialogue grounded in Afrikan-centred thought, connecting history and analysis to present-day community priorities.
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Institutional supportResearch & Impact ServicesPolicy synthesis, archival access, and community impact assessment.
↗Get involved
Move the work forward with us.
Volunteer, attend a gathering, join a community dialogue, collaborate on research, support youth programming, or give.
