The Back to Our Roots report on Disabled Black 2SLGBTQI+ Populations in Canada reveals the compounding realities of anti-Black racism, ableism, and queerphobia/transphobia faced by this community across the country. Drawing on 2024 survey data from 400 Black 2SLGBTQI+ individuals (including 91 Disabled respondents), the report uncovers stark inequities in housing, healthcare, employment, education, and safety, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted, intersectional action.

Key findings include:

• 74.7% report experiencing ableism when accessing stable housing, while 70.3% report queerphobia/transphobia and 73.6% report anti-Black discrimination when seeking housing.

• 80.2% experience ableism in the workplace, while 63.7% report being denied employment due to gender or sexual identity, and 74.7% due to race.

• 85.7% report ableism in education, with 91% experiencing anti-Black racism and 84% experiencing queerphobia/transphobia in schools.

• Disabled respondents are twice as likely to face verbal abuse, including racially motivated attacks, compared to non-Disabled peers.

Despite facing these layered barriers, 84.6% of Disabled Black 2SLGBTQI+ respondents reported being employed, showcasing resilience amid systemic discrimination.

The report underscores the urgent need for policies, funding, and services that are informed by and designed for Disabled Black 2SLGBTQI+ people. It calls on policymakers, funders, and community leaders to prioritize culturally relevant, accessible, and affirming services that address the realities of anti-Black racism, ableism, and queerphobia/transphobia collectively.

Back to Our Roots is not just data collection; it is a call to reimagine inclusion in Canada by centering the leadership, voices, and lived experiences of Disabled Black 2SLGBTQI+ people, ensuring that systemic change is driven by those most affected.