“Yes We Can” and its French-language version, “Tout droit vers le droit,” are new programs created and run by the Ontario Justice Education Network. Funded by the Ontario Bar Association Foundation and the Law Foundation of Ontario, they aim to teach middle school students from Black or other racialized backgrounds about the various professions and possible career paths within the justice sector. The programs are delivered in participating classrooms or community centres across the GTA.
Program sessions explore educational material through games, presentations, and Q&A sessions with visiting justice sector volunteers. The program also includes historical discussions on trailblazing Black and racialized individuals and their importance for Canadian legal history. OJEN invites a black or racialized justice sector professional to lead at least one of the sessions. The French-language version, Tout droit vers le droit, includes all program materials but also explores the unique intersections between the French language and the law in Canada.
By offering this engaging and holistic program, Black and racialized students can see themselves within the legal profession from a young age. Having already received positive reviews from participating students and schools, OJEN hopes to expand the program beyond the GTA in future iterations.