Civic Engagement
About
Here are the elements of the LBD’s commitment to nurturing responsible citizens:
Democratic values form the foundation of a vibrant and resilient society, emphasizing not only the rights but also the responsibilities of individuals. These values include core freedoms such as speech, assembly, and the right to participate in free and fair elections, alongside the upholding of justice and equality.
For each of the past three academic years, the LBD has hosted a symposium on democracy. Students are also encouraged to attend events that deepen their understanding of democratic principles—such as the annual DemocracyXChange, jointly hosted by Toronto Metropolitan University and OCAD University, and the Massey Lectures, which invariably explore issues related to civic engagement.
In November 2025, CIVIX Canada will host a Youth Parliament of Canada, bringing 75 young Canadians to Ottawa for a four-day parliamentary simulation. Notably, an LBD student has been selected to participate in this prestigious event.
Democratic values form the foundation of a vibrant and resilient society, emphasizing not only the rights but also the responsibilities of individuals. These values include core freedoms such as speech, assembly, and the right to participate in free and fair elections, alongside the upholding of justice and equality.
For each of the past three academic years, the LBD has hosted a symposium on democracy. Students are also encouraged to attend events that deepen their understanding of democratic principles—such as the annual DemocracyXChange, jointly hosted by Toronto Metropolitan University and OCAD University, and the Massey Lectures, which invariably explore issues related to civic engagement.
In November 2025, CIVIX Canada will host a Youth Parliament of Canada, bringing 75 young Canadians to Ottawa for a four-day parliamentary simulation. Notably, an LBD student has been selected to participate in this prestigious event.
The concept of the public good involves actions and policies designed to benefit society as a whole, rather than serving individual interests. By prioritizing the public good, we foster a sense of collective responsibility, motivating individuals and organizations to collaborate for the betterment of society.
The LBD encourages students to cultivate a ‘public good mindset,’ purposefully striving to do good for others, serve the community, and act with responsibility and compassion. This mindset also requires students to be knowledgeable about major contemporary issues such as health care, educational services, safe infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. The LBD inspires students to go the extra mile in serving their communities.
To illustrate, a remarkable LBD student launched a successful book drive, collecting and shipping a significant number of books to two rural schools in Ghana. This initiative exemplifies the spirit of the public good and demonstrates how students can have a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
The concept of the public good involves actions and policies designed to benefit society as a whole, rather than serving individual interests. By prioritizing the public good, we foster a sense of collective responsibility, motivating individuals and organizations to collaborate for the betterment of society.
The LBD encourages students to cultivate a ‘public good mindset,’ purposefully striving to do good for others, serve the community, and act with responsibility and compassion. This mindset also requires students to be knowledgeable about major contemporary issues such as health care, educational services, safe infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. The LBD inspires students to go the extra mile in serving their communities.
To illustrate, a remarkable LBD student launched a successful book drive, collecting and shipping a significant number of books to two rural schools in Ghana. This initiative exemplifies the spirit of the public good and demonstrates how students can have a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
Civil discourse refers to respectful and informed conversation among citizens about issues of public concern. It is characterized by active listening, openness to differing viewpoints, and a commitment to finding common ground, even amid disagreement. Civil discourse is essential for a functioning democracy, as it facilitates the exchange of ideas, encourages critical thinking, and helps build consensus on complex issues. By inspiring LBD students to value and practise civil discourse, mutual respect, and collaboration, we enable them to become better citizens.
To advance the agenda of civil discourse, LBD organizes meetings — including symposia, workshops, and similar events — where students have opportunities to engage in dialogue within small groups. One notable activity that trains LBD students in methods of respectful and constructive debate is the Southern Ontario Model United Nations Assembly (SOMA), a three-day international relations simulation for high school students. Hosted by University of Toronto Schools (UTS), SOMA provides delegates with the opportunity to respectfully debate the important issues of our time.
Civil discourse refers to respectful and informed conversation among citizens about issues of public concern. It is characterized by active listening, openness to differing viewpoints, and a commitment to finding common ground, even amid disagreement. Civil discourse is essential for a functioning democracy, as it facilitates the exchange of ideas, encourages critical thinking, and helps build consensus on complex issues. By inspiring LBD students to value and practise civil discourse, mutual respect, and collaboration, we enable them to become better citizens.
To advance the agenda of civil discourse, LBD organizes meetings — including symposia, workshops, and similar events — where students have opportunities to engage in dialogue within small groups. One notable activity that trains LBD students in methods of respectful and constructive debate is the Southern Ontario Model United Nations Assembly (SOMA), a three-day international relations simulation for high school students. Hosted by University of Toronto Schools (UTS), SOMA provides delegates with the opportunity to respectfully debate the important issues of our time.
Diversity and inclusivity are essential to the fabric of Canadian society, reflecting the nation’s multicultural heritage. An inclusive approach values each person’s contribution, challenges systemic barriers, and promotes a sense of belonging for all. Efforts to advance the well-being of the Black community must also include a commitment to respecting the many forms that diversity and inclusivity can take. While the LBD focuses on serving Black youth, the broader LBD community is itself highly diverse. Respecting individuals of various backgrounds, identities, and perspectives strengthens civic life by ensuring that public policies and community initiatives become more representative and equitable.
Effective, responsible, and exemplary leadership demands respect for all people. When the LBD prepares students for ‘seat at the table’ leadership, it also instills the obligation to help craft a society in which everyone has the opportunity to thrive and participate fully in public life. Ultimately, it is all for the greater good.
Diversity and inclusivity are essential to the fabric of Canadian society, reflecting the nation’s multicultural heritage. An inclusive approach values each person’s contribution, challenges systemic barriers, and promotes a sense of belonging for all. Efforts to advance the well-being of the Black community must also include a commitment to respecting the many forms that diversity and inclusivity can take. While the LBD focuses on serving Black youth, the broader LBD community is itself highly diverse. Respecting individuals of various backgrounds, identities, and perspectives strengthens civic life by ensuring that public policies and community initiatives become more representative and equitable.
Effective, responsible, and exemplary leadership demands respect for all people. When the LBD prepares students for ‘seat at the table’ leadership, it also instills the obligation to help craft a society in which everyone has the opportunity to thrive and participate fully in public life. Ultimately, it is all for the greater good.