From Dreams to Action - Leadership Conversation Series

An ongoing conversation about the Dreams Delayed Action Plan

This six-part discussion series will unpack the Dreams Delayed Action Plan through the lens of equity and inclusion, focusing on concrete steps for leadership in schools. Each session will engage special guests and participants in an area of the plan, focusing on how we can work together to disrupt systemic barriers and support inclusive learning environments. Together, participants will explore strategies, share practices, and build collective capacity to move the plan from vision to action. 

Hosted by: 

Dr. Susie Lee-Fernandes, Director of Professional Learning and Engagement 

Dr. Belinda Longe, Protective Services Consultant 

 

Conversation 1 of 6

Details: 

Join us for a focused conversation about actioning the vision of the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) and how this plan drives school leaders to make a positive change within schools. 

Chapter 1: Introduction 

Chapter 2: Scope and Purpose of Action Plan 

Date: November 18, 2025

Time: 8:00 - 8:45 a.m. EDT/EST

Presenter: 

Patricia DeGuire, Chief Commissioner, Ontario Human Rights Commission 

Conversation 2 of 6

Details: 

Join us for a focused conversation centering our legal duties and responsibilities as school leaders to address and respond to anti-Black racism in education.  

Chapter 3: Education and Human Rights 

Chapter 4: Systemic Anti-Black Racism in Education 

Date: January 27, 2026

Time: 8:00 - 8:45 a.m. EDT/EST

Presenter:

Michele Hamilton, Interim General Counsel, OPC

 

 

Conversation 3 of 6

Details: 

Join us for a focused conversation on building leader efficacy and action to reimagine more inclusive spaces for Black students.

Chapter 5: Findings and Discussion  

Date: February 10, 2026

Time: 8:00 - 8:45 a.m. EDT/EST

Presenter: 

Dr. Carl James, Academic, York's Faculty of Education Jean Augustine Chair

Conversation 4 of 6

Details: 

Join us for a focused conversation reflecting on the influence leaders have on school climate, sense of belonging and what school leaders must do to make a positive and proactive impact for Black students. 

Chapter 6: Actions for Implementation 

Chapter 7: Next steps – Monitoring and Reporting on Implementation 

Date: March 5, 2026

Time: 8:00 - 8:45 a.m. EDT/EST

Presenter:

Sherwyn Solomon, Principal, Human Rights, Equity, and Accessibility
Conversation 5 of 6

Details: 

Join us for a focused conversation exploring proactive approaches that center and affirm Black identity while confronting anti-Black racism at all levels — from classrooms to entire school districts.

Chapter 6: Actions for Implementation 

Chapter 7: Next steps – Monitoring and Reporting on Implementation 

Date: April 14, 2026

Time: 8:00 - 8:45 a.m. EDT/EST

Presenter:

Shelita Walker, System Principal - Human Rights, Equity & Inclusive Education, HDSB

Conversation 6 of 6

Details: 

Join us for a final reflection about what we have learned, the insights we have gained and mobilization for the continued work ahead of us as school leaders. 

Chapter 6: Actions for Implementation 

Chapter 7: Next steps – Monitoring and Reporting on Implementation 

Date: May 12, 2026

Time: 8:00 - 8:45 a.m. EDT/EST

Presenter: TBA

 

REGISTER FOR ALL SESSIONS

Calendar invites will be sent following registration.