Together we RESTORE

United we SUSTAIN

Black Urbanism TO (BUTO) is a community development not-for-profit organization dedicated to building partnerships with other community organizations, local businesses and anchor institutions, with the aim of creating equitable, sustainable, and thriving local economies that serve the needs of Black communities in the GTA.

What we do + why it matters

Our goal is to increase the participation and representation of Black people in community development to advance the collective cultural, economic and social interests in the neighbourhoods we call home.

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Our mission + guiding principles

Everything we do is guided by the Nguzo Saba, a set of seven principles rooted in African heritage. This is foundational to our work, ensuring we never lose sight of the importance of intentional community engagement and culturally relevant consultation.

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Community tools + resources

Our community portal provides access to important information, including progress reports, coming events, volunteer opportunities, community news, a directory of local businesses, and more.

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About BUTO

Get INVOLVED!

Join BUTO

You can make a difference. Let's empower our communities and decide our own destinies!

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Partner with us

Collaboration is vital to success. If you believe in the work we do, consider becoming a partner.

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About LJCLT

This priority initiative works to address threats of displacement in the Little Jamaica.

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Make a donation

Your donation is an investment. With your help, we can amplify the soul of Black communities.

DONATE

The disenfranchisement of Black communities in Canada is real and has its roots in the anti-Blackness born of slavery. This is a hard truth many would rather deny but the results are evident. Black communities are subject to powerful and biased systems that have detrimental effects. The direst being communal wealth building.

Whether it be health, education or justice, access to financial resources is often the deciding factor for successful outcomes. That's why our work focuses on gaining equity for Black communities through economic empowerment, social cohesion and self-reliance, supported by five key priorities

Community engagement

We bring people together through forums, workshops, and public events to ensure that Black community voices are centered in decision-making. Our engagement practices are rooted in care, listening, and collective power-building.

Cultural preservation

We celebrate and protect the cultural landmarks, histories, and traditions that define Black communities in Toronto. Through storytelling, art, and heritage recognition, we work to ensure these contributions are not erased but uplifted.

Economic development

We strengthen local economies by implementing innovative approaches to support Black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and cooperative ventures. Our work fosters sustainable economic ecosystems that reflect community needs and circulate wealth locally.

Policy advocacy

We advocate for urban policies and planning practices that advance racial equity, land justice, and community control. From zoning to transit to affordable housing, we push for systems that work for, not against, Black communities.

Community strategy + readiness

We help Black communities stay ahead of the curve by supporting strategic readiness for the changes reshaping how we live, work, and learn. Through community knowledge-building, localized strategy, and access to critical insights, we prepare residents to navigate an evolving world. Our work supports communities in developing local strategies, influencing infrastructure decisions, and advancing their own visions for inclusive, resilient neighbourhoods.