UPlift Black

Presented by Parents Against Racism Simcoe County, the Empower Your Voice workshop on September 11 at 6pm is designed to equip students with the skills and confidence necessary to advocate for themselves effectively. Through interactive activities, discussions, and practical exercises, participants will learn strategies for self-advocacy in school, social, and work situations.

Topics covered include identifying personal strengths and needs, assertive communication techniques, navigating challenges and obstacles, and seeking support when needed. By the end of the workshop, students will have a toolkit of resources and strategies to assertively advocate for themselves and achieve their goals.

Register: bit.ly/3XgR9xR

🔎Discover CHANGEMAKER Tyler Boyce, Executive Director, The Enchanté Network / Le réseau Enchanté.

Public policy professional and human rights activist Tyler is committed to bridging the worlds of research, policy, and social justice, while also combating the erasure of Black ***r people from decision making spaces.

Read more about Tyler’s leadership and advocacy journey by visiting the website.

🔗https://prideatwork.ca/changemakers/

We’re focused on offering barrier free access to our community by offering culturally relevant, anti-oppressive, professional development programs. We understand the importance of embracing all parts of you and how challenging it can be to show up as your authentic self in spaces where you are often over-looked. We know that incorporating wholistic services that prioritize you mental and physical health is key to ensuring you reach your goals.

At UPlift Black, we put your wellbeing first.

Starting Wednesday from 5:30pm to 6:00pm, join our wellness coordinator Shadrack as they guide you through an introductory yoga class at UP BeatBox Creative Studio.

Support Shadrack as they complete their final hours of Yoga Teacher Education with

All are welcome 🫶🏼🫶🏽🫶🏾🫶🏿🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

DM us or email [email protected] to sign up for this free community class.

🧘🏾🧘🏾‍♀️🧘🏾‍♂️

This Saturday!

Coming to UPlift Black at the UP BeatBox Creative studio, we have some new wellness and movement classes and workshops coming your way!

Join us for a TikTok dance trends class with Liz!

August 24, 2024
2:30pm to 3:30pm

$5 for Members and
Youth 12-18
$10 for non-members
or Pay What You Can!

Register by visiting www.upliftblack.org/tiktokdanceworkshop

Thank you to for this UPlift 🙏🏾🫴🏾

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▪️Meet Shelly-Ann Skinner (they/she), President and Founder of UPlift Black. is a Black and 2SLGBTQI+ led non-profit and Centre for Social Justice and Inclusion located in downtown Barrie, Ontario.

▪️Discover more about Shelly-Ann’s inspiring journey and the mission of UPlift Black in our Code Switch Q&A series.

In both your personal and professional life, what has inclusion meant to you?

On a personal level, inclusion means that I feel seen, heard, and accepted for who I am. It’s about having my unique experiences, perspectives, and needs acknowledged and accommodated. Inclusion allows me to show up authentically without fear of judgment or exclusion. When we embrace inclusion, we build bridges between people, celebrate our differences and foster a culture of empathy. Inclusion is not just a lofty ideal - it’s a daily practice of being mindful, compassionate, and actively advocating for the marginalized. It’s about creating the kind of world we wish to see, one small step at a time.

How do you think marketing can be more inclusive?

Marketers need to ensure that they create campaigns and content that reflects the actual diversity of their target audience and broader community. Conducting inclusive marketing research is essential. Marketers should actively recruit participants from a wide range of backgrounds by collaborating with organizations representing marginalized communities. Hiring an inclusive marketing specialist can help marketers measure the impact and effectiveness of their inclusive marketing efforts.

Join UPlift Black on August 13 and 14th for Safer Spaces Online Lunch & Learns | UPlift Black

These impactful learning sessions explore the history and cultural understanding of gender identity and expression, highlights the discrimination and challenges members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community experience within the larger society, and provides recommendations for supporting members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community in the workplace.

For more information or to book visit https://www.upliftblack.org/service-page/safer-spaces-online-lunch-learns (link in bio)

Join UPlift Black and the Gilbert Centre for the first of our series of Newcomer Nights held at UPlift Black!

Are you a newcomer from the LGBTQI community looking for networking opportunities, cultural experiences, settlement counselling and community resources? We got you covered!

Are you a service provider who wants to engage with our newcomers and support their settlement to Canada? Hit us UP in the DM or email [email protected]

When:
August 30, 2024 5pm to 8pm
Where:
UPlift Black Centre for Social Justice and Inclusion
12 Dunlop St E | Barrie, ON

We’re here for the UPlift! ✊🏾🌈

🌟 Join us for Uplift Visions! 🌟We are thrilled to partner with and Uplift Black to bring you an amazing event on August 17, 2024, in Barrie!

📍 Location: 12 Dunlop Street, Barrie
🕛 Time: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Discover the incredible talent of our BIPOC vendors showcasing their unique arts, crafts, and delicious food. Enjoy live performances and connect with our vibrant community!

Don't miss out on this celebration of creativity and culture. See you there! 🙌

Can you help?

Mutual Aid Request:

Newcomers (Parent and young child) to Canada and the Barrie area is looking for some financial support to help with moving expenses and household needs.

If you can support, please send us a DM to be connected directly with the community member in need. 🫶🏾🙏🏾

Let’s UPlift together 🫴🏾🫴🏾🫴🏾

SATURDAY JULY 13TH , GOOD MUSIC. OPEN AIR DUNLOP SHOW. FACE PAINTING. ART GALLERY ALL IN THE HEART OF !

12 DUNLOP ST E
BARRIE, ON
10AM TO 4PM

Come out and hang with us!
Take a tour of our Art Gallery. See our recording studio and grab a snow cone or two

ATTENTION ALL ENTREPRENEURS!!!📢📢

On August 17th Uplift Black is hosting a vendor event for local Bipoc/LGBTQ Bipoc Entrepreneur Businesses that involve 

Hand made goods and Artistic Creations

Local Artisans and creations 

Food Vendors 

17 tables 

$25 per table 

Event will be held 12pm - 6pm 

Application is link in bio.  

📣 Calling all BIPOC Creatives. Artists, Entrepreneurs and Activists, come thru to network, collaborate and create at the UPlift Black weekly drop in EVERY Wednesday from 5pm to 9pm
🏣UP BeatBox Studio/UPlift Black
📍12 Dunlop St E in Barrie, ON (Downtown Barrie)

See you soon!

📣Announcement📣

1st Annual Bashment Kiki Gathering by UPlift Black - a night to remember celebrating Pride Month, Indigenous Heritage Month & Juneteenth!

Introducing out in house DJ for the night! !

For close to ten years, DJ Swags has been lighting up dance floors across Toronto and beyond. Holding a residency at Crews and Tangos in downtown Toronto, she has

become a cornerstone of the city's nightlife. As one half of S&L Entertainment, DJ Swags is committed to creating memorable events for q***r women in Toronto, fostering a sense of belonging within the community. Their DJing abilities has crossed boarders from Michigan State University to Atlanta Black Pride and even the scenic shores of St. Croix. Whether it's an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, DJ Swags knows how to curate an atmosphere of dancing, fun and good vibes And it's not just social events seeking DJ Swags' expertise. She has performed for prestigious clients such as Pride Toronto, TDSB, George Brown College, Uber Canada, RBC, Toyota, and Longos to name a few, consistently delivering their distinct skills. With nearly a decade of experience in DJing and an unwavering passion for music, DJ Swags remains dedicated to setting the tempo for every occasion her grace.

June 2, 2024 - 5pm doors open
- Afrocentric and Indigenous opening ceremony
- Freedom school & Toronto Kiki Ballroom
Alliance Kiki Kids Performace!
- Drag performances
- Traditional Dance Performers
- R&B Band TRP.P
- After Party with DJ Swags of SNL
AND MORE!
- Hors d'oeuvres
- Red carpet | Dress to Impress!

For tickets visit upliftblack.org/upcoming or click link in bio!

📣Announcement📣

1st Annual Bashment Kiki Gathering by UPlift Black - a night to remember celebrating Pride Month, Indigenous Heritage Month & Juneteenth!

Gala Opening Ceremony will be done by

Ginelle Skerritt, an executive with over 30 years of leadership experience in the non-profit sector is the Chief Executive Officer of York Region Children’s Aid Society.    

She is an initiate and teacher in the Akan Rites of Passage tradition, a published author on the topic of traditional savings and credit associations, ROSCA’s, and co-owner of Adinkrafarm where she resides with her family, Ms. Skerritt devotes her spare time to hosting community retreats, children’s camps, special events and gatherings focused on sharing Indigenous African knowledge, wellness and connecting with guests through land-based therapies, cooperative farming and activities.

June 2, 2024 - 5pm doors open
- Afrocentric and Indigenous opening ceremony
- Freedom school & Toronto Kiki Ballroom
Alliance Kiki Kids Performace!
- Drag performances
- Traditional Dance Performers
- R&B Band TRP.P
- After Party with DJ Swags of SNL
AND MORE!
- Hors d'oeuvres
- Red carpet | Dress to Impress!

For tickets visit upliftblack.org/upcoming or click link in bio!

📣Announcement📣

1st Annual Bashment Kiki Gathering by UPlift Black - a night to remember celebrating Pride Month, Indigenous Heritage Month & Juneteenth!

INTRODUCING OUR HOST FOR THE EVENING !

Shadrack Jackman is a dynamic force in barrie's vibrant arts scene, known for their captivating performances as a singer, songwriter, and drag queen. Born in Toronto, but raised in barrie, Shadrack's artistic journey began at a young age, inspired by the city's diverse cultural landscape and rich artistic heritage.

Combining elements of soul, pop, and electronic music, Shadrack's music is a reflection of their eclectic tastes and experiences. Their soulful vocals, paired with infectious beats and poignant lyrics, create a sonic experience that resonates deeply with audiences.

As a drag queen, Shadrack brings an unparalleled sense of theatricality and glamour to the stage. With their striking costumes, impeccable makeup, and larger-than-life persona, they command attention and captivate audiences with their electrifying performances.

Beyond their artistic pursuits, Shadrack is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice. They use their platform to raise awareness about important issues facing the community, using art as a tool for empowerment and social change.

As they continue to push the boundaries of art and performance, Shadrack Jackman remains committed to creating music and art that challenges conventions and inspires audiences. With their unique blend of talent, creativity, and activism, they are poised to make an even greater impact on the cultural landscape of barrie and beyond.

Come out and experience it on our gala stage !

June 2, 2024 - 5pm doors open
- ��Afrocentric and Indigenous opening ceremony
- ��Freedom school & Toronto Kiki Ballroom
Alliance Kiki Kids Performace!
- ��Drag performances
- ��Traditional Dance Performers
- ��R&B Band TRP.P
- ��After Party with DJ Swags of SNL
AND MORE!
- Hors d'oeuvres
- ��Red carpet | Dress to Impress!

For tickets visit upliftblack.org/upcoming or click link in bio!

Hey folks,

You're invited to join Innisfil Pride, Town of Innisfil South Simcoe Police UPlift Black and many others to raise the Intersex Progressive Pride Flag to show support and solidarity throughout Innisfil. The flag is raised on the traditional lands of the Anishnaabeg People.
We encourage folks to join us for this event if you are able.

Innisfil Town Hall June 13th, 2024. 1:00P.M.

📣Announcement📣

1st Annual Bashment Kiki Gathering by UPlift Black - a night to remember celebrating Pride Month, Indigenous Heritage Month & Juneteenth!

Ali!

Ali, is a singer-songwriter based out of Barrie Ontario, Canada. Through their music, they create a unique connection with audiences, weaving together stories and emotions that resonate on a deeper level.

Come out and experience it on our gala stage !

June 2, 2024 - 5pm doors open
- ��Afrocentric and Indigenous opening ceremony
- ��Freedom school & Toronto Kiki Ballroom
Alliance Kiki Kids Performace!
- ��Drag performances
- ��Traditional Dance Performers
- ��R&B Band TRP.P
- ��After Party with DJ Swags of SNL
AND MORE!
- Hors d'oeuvres
- ��Red carpet | Dress to Impress!

For tickets visit upliftblack.org/upcoming or click link in bio!

📣Announcement📣

1st Annual Bashment Kiki Gathering by UPlift Black - a night to remember celebrating Pride Month, Indigenous Heritage Month & Juneteenth!

TORONTO KIKI BALLROOM ALLIANCE KIKI KIDS !!!

June 2, 2024 - 5pm doors open
- Afrocentric and Indigenous opening ceremony
- Freedom school & Toronto Kiki Ballroom
Alliance Kiki Kids Performace!
- Drag performances
- Traditional Dance Performers
- R&B Band TRP.P
- After Party with DJ Swags of SNL
AND MORE!
- Hors d'oeuvres
- Red carpet | Dress to Impress!

For tickets visit upliftblack.org/upcoming or click link in bio!

📣 Announcement 📣

1st Annual Bashment Kiki Gathering by UPlift Black - a night to remember celebrating Pride Month, Indigenous Heritage Month & Juneteenth!

June 2, 2024 - 5pm doors open
- Afrocentric and Indigenous opening ceremony
- Freedom school & Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance Kiki Kids Performace!
- Drag performances
- Dance performances
- R&B Band TRP.P
- After Party with DJ Swags of SNL
AND MORE!
- Cash bar and Hors d’oeuvres
- Red carpet | Dress to Impress!

For tickets visit upliftblack.org/upcoming or click link in bio!

Today’s the day!! Come get a lovingly refurbished bike! 2pm to 7pm

We love to see it! 🙌🏾

ICYMI: We have a super stellar team of dedicated staff & volunteers making Simcoe Muskoka a more inclusive & compassionate place to live, work and play for everyone! ❤
Huronia Transition Homes Gilbert Centre Family & Youth Program City of Barrie UPlift Black Central Toronto Youth Services Pflag Barrie-Simcoe County Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit

***rTrans

From May 11th to 17th, 2SLGBTQIA+ advocates and allies across Turtle Island are speaking up for a more free; equal and socially just future through a Rainbow Week of Action organized by the Society of Q***r Momentum. As part of our Rainbow Week of Action, UPlift Black is hosting a letter-writing event to bring our community together to urge Members of Parliament and otherelected officials to take action for rainbow equality.

Join us!

May 15, 2024
6:00pm to 7:30pm
12 Dunlop St E, Barrie, ON

For more information, reach out!

+

***rmomentum

Repost from
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Sunday April 21 (tomorrow!!)
Come and lounge with us!

A day filled with good music , games, live performances, snacks, coffee and tea!

Tell a friend, bring some friends !

Hey everyone, it's that time to save the date for our upcoming event 😉

May 4th AND 5th UPlift Black presents UPthrift Vintage market! Come out and support and get your hands on some great thrifted apparel.  All proceeds of trifted items will help support UPlift Artist Collective ! We will have a couple of local branded booths  who will be selling their own merch that you can support as well.

What an amazing way to show up and help preserve the environment, support an amazing local organization, and leave looking good all at the same time!

Come out and support, show up, and don't forget to UPlift

Hey everyone, it's time to SAVE THE DATE.

May 4th AND 5th UPlift Black presents UPthrift Vintage market! Come out and support and get your hands on some great thrifted apparel. All proceeds of trifted items will help support UPlift Artist Collective ! We will have a couple of local branded booths who will be selling their own merch that you can support as well.

What an amazing way to show up and help preserve the environment, support an amazing local organization, and leave looking good all at the same time!

Come support, show up, and UPlift yourself and others.