We Were not Built to Break: Racially Affirming Care for Black Children, Families, and Communities

We Were Not Built to Break: Racially Affirming Care for Black Children, Families, and Communities offers social service and education providers who work with Black children, youth, and families a critical understanding of the ways in which race and racism influence the experiences and outcomes of Black children, youth, and families. This book addresses the documented disproportionate representation of Black families in child welfare systems, where they often face excessive surveillance, family separations, and systemic pathologization. This project seeks to disrupt these problematic narratives by intentionally focusing on the strengths, capacities, and capabilities of Black communities, which have been foundational to their survival for generations.

Most workers who are involved in the lives of Black children-ECEs, CYCs, social workers, teachers, or healthcare providers-are seldom members of Black communities and are trained using perspectives and curriculum that remain culturally and racially irrelevant. Recognizing these challenges, this book seeks to provide current and future practitioners with concise, easily accessible, detailed information that can enhance their engagement with Black families. Dr. Daniel explores the role of 'race' as a socially constructed marker in Canada, examines the impact of racism on Black communities, and introduces alternative frameworks that highlight resilience, cultural identity, and community strengths.

We Were Not Built to Break is intended for Child and Youth Care, Social Work, ECE, Teacher Education, and Psychology programs within universities and colleges in Canada.

Dr. Beverly-Jean M. Daniel is an Associate Professor in the School of Child and Youth Care at Toronto Metropolitan University. She holds a Ph.D. in Sociology and Equity Studies in Education, a Master's in counselling psychology, and a Graduate Certificate in Women and Gender Studies. In addition to Dr. Daniel's academic and field-based experiences in education, justice, and community, she has conducted work in the areas of diversity training and developing cultural competence programming for over 25 years. Dr. Daniel developed an innovative program, The Bridge, which is the first student support initiative for African, Black, and Caribbean students in any Canadian post-secondary institution. Her research and publications focus on race, racism, and equity within the Canadian education and justice systems, and the mental health of Black youth.