As Black Mental Health Week (BMHW) 2025 approaches, the Federation of Black Canadians (FBC) invites the community to come together, reflect, and prioritize mental wellness. From March 3 to March 9, Toronto will host a series of powerful events designed to foster healing, creativity, and dialogue. This week is more than just a series of events — it’s a crucial reminder of the importance of prioritizing Black mental health and creating spaces where we can thrive.

Why Black Mental Health Week Matters

For far too long, Black communities have faced systemic barriers to mental health support, compounded by the lasting impacts of anti-Black racism, generational trauma, and social inequities. Black Mental Health Week shines a light on these issues while celebrating our resilience, creativity, and strength. It’s a space to reflect, heal, and push forward together. Prioritizing mental health isn’t just an individual act — it’s a collective movement toward wellness and liberation.

This year’s BMHW lineup in Toronto offers something for everyone — whether you find solace in art, music, discussion, or laughter. Let’s take a look at what’s in store:

Upcoming Black Mental Health Week Events

Here’s a schedule of events happening over the week:

Monday, March 3

• Opening Ceremony & Youth Art Exhibit
  Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
  Location: Toronto City Hall Rotunda
  Description: Kick off the week with an inspiring showcase of Black youth artistry. Through visual art, these young creators reflect on themes of mental health, resilience, and identity. This event sets the tone for a week of creativity, reflection, and celebration.

Tuesday, March 4

• Peaceful Sounds
  Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  Description: Create original soothing music in a collaborative jam session where creativity meets healing. This uplifting evening promises a space for self-expression and connection through sound.
  REGISTER HERE

Wednesday, March 5

• Answering the Call Film Screening
  Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
  Location: Innis Town Hall, University of Toronto, 2 Sussex Ave, Toronto, ON
  Description: Experience the exclusive screening of “VeraCity: Answering the Call (2024),” a documentary showcasing the transformative impact of the Toronto Community Crisis Service (TCCS). Witness how community-led support can change lives and inspire action.
  RSVP
  Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  Description: A spontaneous music collaboration where a single idea sparks creative magic. Musicians of all levels are welcome to join this space of improvisation and shared energy.
  REGISTER HERE

Thursday, March 6

• Panel Discussion: Black Mental Health & the Legacies of Slavery
  Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  Location: North York Toronto Public Library
  Description: Engage in a deep and thought-provoking conversation on the lasting impacts of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and the ongoing journey toward collective healing.

Friday, March 7

• Joy & Resistance
  Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  Description: Celebrate joy as an act of resistance in this interactive jam session. Bring your instrument and share musical ideas in this creative, healing space.
  REGISTER HERE
• Panel Discussion: Black Men and Mental Health
  Time: 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM
  Location: North York Toronto Public Library
  Description: This crucial discussion will explore the unique challenges Black men face regarding mental health, while creating space for open dialogue and support.

Sunday, March 9

• BMHW Closing Event – Culture & Comedy for Black Mental Wellness
  Time: 12:30 PM – 7:00 PM
  Location: Comedy Bar East
  Description: End the week with joy and community at this blend of storytelling, laughter, and connection. Celebrate the strength and resilience of Black communities through humour and shared experiences.

Let’s Come Together for Healing and Empowerment

Black Mental Health Week 2025 offers a vital opportunity to prioritize our well-being, foster creativity, and strengthen our community. Whether through art, music, discussion, or laughter, these events provide spaces for reflection, support, and celebration. Let’s show up for ourselves and each other — because our mental health matters.

For more information and to RSVP for events, visit blackmentalhealthweek.ca.