A new research hub and Sociology specialization focused on Black knowledge, experiences and community collaboration are launching at Trent University Durham GTA, equipping students with the insights and tools to lead meaningful social and equitable change.

“With this new programming, we are working towards our goal to celebrate Black knowledge, not just in theory but in practice,” says Dr. Adwoa Onuora, an associate professor of Sociology at Trent Durham and coordinator of the Black Studies specialization. “At the core of these programs is an inseparable link between thought and action that drives our collective efforts toward a more equitable and just society.”

Beginning this fall, Sociology students can pursue a Black Studies specialization, an academic pathway informed by and exploring the lived experiences of Black communities and grounded in social justice. The specialization equips students to critically examine systems of oppression and engage directly with communities through a capstone project focused on dismantling anti-Black racism and promoting Black health and well-being.

Alongside the new specialization, the new Black Life and Community Knowledge (B.L.A.C.K.) Lab will serve as a collaborative space for research, dialogue, and action at the university. Focused on advancing equity and social justice, the lab will support community-engaged scholarship in areas such as Black health equity, anti-Black Islamophobia, and the criminalization of Black communities. It will foster meaningful connections between scholars, artists, organizers, and educators – creating an intellectual home for emerging Black thinkers to contribute to transformative change.

Developed in response to recommendations from Trent’s Anti-Racism Task Force, these initiatives reflect the University’s commitment to equity and its role in shaping inclusive academic spaces.

“With the launch of the Black Studies Specialization and the B.L.A.C.K. Lab, Trent Durham is deepening its commitment to community-engaged learning and research,” says Dr. Scott Henderson, vice-president and head of Trent University Durham GTA. “This is a meaningful step toward a more just and reflective academic environment.”

Learn more about the Black Studies Specialization in Sociology.

About Trent University Durham GTA

Having established a tradition of academic excellence spanning five decades in the east GTA, Trent University Durham offers a dynamic and rigorous educational experience rooted in the social sciences, humanities and professional programs. Students at Trent University Durham GTA enthusiastically speak of the unparalleled sense of community on campus and the opportunity to be involved in a vibrant and dynamic student life experience. Quickly becoming the campus of choice for top scholars looking for a truly personalized learning experience, Trent University Durham GTA is conveniently located in the GTA, just 40 minutes from downtown Toronto while Trent's Peterborough campus boasts award-winning architecture in a breathtaking natural setting on the banks of the Otonabee River, just 90 minutes from downtown Toronto. 

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For more information contact:

Jack O’Donnell, Senior Communications & Media Relations Officer, Trent University
(905) 435-5100 x5164 or jackodonnell@trentu.ca.

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