TORONTO, Oct. 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Black women in Canada face a profound health crisis marked by stark inequalities, including a preterm birth rate of 8.9%—significantly higher than the 5.9% rate for white women—and a 21 times greater risk of contracting HIV/AIDS compared to non-racialized populations. These alarming results are due to systemic barriers, insufficient data on race, and entrenched anti-Black racism in Canadian health care systems, leaving many Black women and girls underserved and ignored.
On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the Empire Club of Canada, in partnership with the Black Women's Health Institute, brings this pressing issue to the forefront in Whose Health Matters? Improving Health Outcomes for Black Women and Girls in Canada.” The event will feature Unheard Voices, the first-ever comprehensive national report documenting the lived experiences and health challenges of Black women across Canada, offering data and insights that were previously unavailable.
“Events like these matter because they bring us together – in one room with a common goal – to listen, learn and act. True change starts with communication, and that's why I encourage people to join us in person to directly engage in these important conversations. It is our responsibility to create an environment where all voices are heard and valued.” — Kent Emerson, President and CEO, Empire Club of Canada
Event Details
- Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
- Time: In person: 11:30 am – 2:00 pm ET; Virtual: 12:35–1:30 pm ET.
- Location: Arcadian Court, 401 Bay Street, Simpson Tower, 8th Floor, Old Toronto, ON M5H 2Y4.
- Format: Hybrid – Attend in person for a full networking session and lunch, or join virtually for a discussion and report presentation.
How to register and take part
Tickets for the in-person experience, which includes networking, a two-course meal and the opportunity to network with leading experts, are now available through the Empire Club registration portal. High demand is expected and space is limited; Early registration is encouraged. Free virtual access is also available for those wishing to attend remotely.
Event Highlights
The panel discussion, moderated by TVO's Man Kiwanuka, includes:
- Dr. Cindy Maxwell, Women's College Hospital
- Dr. Modupe Tunde-Byass, Black Doctors of Canada
- Dr. Bukola Salami, University of Calgary
Kiri Daniel, executive director of the Institute for Black Women's Health, will present “Unheard Voices,” which will present actionable insights on social determinants, disparities in access to health care, and impacts on employment.
Why attend?
This event is a must-attend event for health, education and policy leaders seeking evidence-based strategies to combat systemic inequalities and advance the status of Black women and girls. This is especially timely as federal and provincial agencies increasingly recognize health equity as a strategic priority for Canada's future.
Ticket sales and access
Register now to attend in person or virtually: https://empireclubofcanada.com/event/whos-health-counts-improving-health-outcomes-for-black-women-and-girls-in-canada/
Media contact:
Elizabeth Burks
General Advisor and Head of Strategy, Revenue, Marketing and Communications
Imperial Club of Canada
E-mail: [email protected] | [email protected]
About the Imperial Club of Canada:
Founded in 1903, the Imperial Club of Canada is the nation's most recognized forum of speakers, providing an independent platform for business, political and civil society leaders to engage in open dialogue on issues of national and global importance. More than 3,500 events have been held, including speeches by Winston Churchill, Indira Gandhi, the Dalai Lama and Bill Gates. The Club's mission is to connect people with ideas, promote meaningful communication and help shape Canada's future.
