A Black family at a community conference

Free One-Day Conference

The C.A.R.E. Conference

Community · Autism · Race · Equity

The C.A.R.E. Conference

October 30, 2026
11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Metro Hall – The Rotunda
55 John Street, Toronto, Ontario
Black children learning together at a community event

A free conference for parents, caregivers, social workers, educators, and disability professionals.

A Black mother and child in a warm, supportive learning moment

Culturally Responsive Autism Support

Empowering Black Families on the Autism Spectrum

A community where every family finds belonging, every individual finds strength, and every journey is honored with culturally grounded care.

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

Stolen From AfricaOntario Trillium FoundationCity of TorontoTaibu Community Health Centre

What We Do

Building Bridges of Support

The Empress Walk is a network of Black families, caregivers and individuals navigating Ontario's autism system together. Along the way, we've built bridges of support that lead to better outcomes for those who feel lost, alone and left behind. As a community who understands the unique parenting journeys of many Black Canadian families, we share our diverse culture, connections, experiences, expertise and support with the hope that each member will thrive and reach their fullest potential.

Family Cooking Workshop

Family Cooking Workshop

Online Training

Culturally responsive courses designed to educate families on the autism journey.

Resources & Tools

Signature books, guides, and practical tools that are tailored to the needs  of our community.

Support Groups & Mentoring

Safe spaces to connect with other families who understand your experience.

Autism Camps

Access to green spaces, life skills learning, socialization and communication opportunities.

Respite Programs

Caregiver weekend relief so that parents can recharge and care for themselves.

Referrals to Culturally-Responsive Services

Sharing information about Black professionals  and programs. 

50+

Families Supported

Families Supported

24+

Training Sessions

Training Sessions

3

Podcast Episodes

Podcast Episodes

98%

Community Satisfaction

Community Satisfaction
Podcast host portrait
Stories of Strength

Our Podcast

Voices from Our Community

Real stories of resilience and the beautiful complexity of raising children and youth with autism in our community.

Navigating the Diagnosis Journey

Dr. Amara Johnson · 42 min

Finding Your Village: Community Support

Marcus & Tanya Williams · 38 min

Self-Care for ASD Caregivers

Dr. Keisha Thompson · 35 min

Coming Soon

Join the Waitlist

Our new e-book is almost here! Be the first to know when it launches and get early access before anyone else.

Understanding Autism in Black Families e-book cover

Community Voices

Testimonies from Our Family

"The Empress Walk has connected me with families who are part of my community and who understand my needs. I feel more comfortable sharing my personal story and getting the right kind of support that I can relate to."

— Tameka

"I learn so much from their workshops and resources that help me to raise my son. I now understand how Autism services work in Ontario and what supports I am entitled to."

— Dayo

"We need more organizations like The Empress Walk to spread Autism awareness and to address the stigmas that exist within the Black community. I have developed self-advocacy skills that make me feel confident and empowered to speak up for myself and my child."

— Naomi

Free Resource

Download Our Free Guide

"5 Things Black Families Need to Know About The Autism System in Ontario" — A comprehensive guide with culturally specific insights, practical strategies, and stories from our community.

5 Things Black Families Need to Know About The Autism System in Ontario guide cover
The Empress Walk logoThe Empress Walk

A culturally supportive community dedicated to empowering Black families and individuals navigating autism spectrum disorder with dignity, resources and belonging. The Empress Walk is where every journey is embraced and honored.

© 2026 The Empress Walk Initiative. All rights reserved.

Made with love for our community.

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