The research will explore social capital within Black and racialized communities
York University has long recognized the important role of interdisciplinary research in tackling complex global problems such as systemic racism and discrimination.
In June 2023, the Walmart Foundation donated USD $750,000 to York University to support a groundbreaking research project led by esteemed researcher Carl James, the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora in York’s Faculty of Education.
The three-year project, which explores social capital within Black and racialized communities, aims to empower marginalized individuals to achieve their career aspirations and contribute to a more equitable, inclusive and diverse society, values that closely align with York’s.
The project is a partnership between Dr. James, the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Against Racism (CILAR) and York’s School of Continuing Studies. It will help to inform the development of policies, systems, and programs that advance equitable social mobility in education, the workplace and daily life.
This newest donation builds upon Walmart Canada’s previous grant of CAD $75,000, which supported James’ research on post-secondary education accessibility for Black youth.