5 Youth Among The Alarming Disappearance of Black Youth in Ontario

In recent months, an unsettling crisis has gripped Ontario, Canada: the disappearance of multiple Black boys. Between October and December 2024, six Black youths aged 13 to 25 were reported missing in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). As of January 2025, four remain unaccounted for, with new cases emerging.

This troubling trend has sparked calls for action and vigilance from parents, community leaders, and activists. The issue highlights systemic failures that disproportionately affect Black youth in Canada and demands immediate intervention from authorities and society at large.

Who Are the Missing?

The missing include boys as young as Valentino (13), Michael (15), Ayden (15), Malachi (15), and Alpachino Mignott (25). While two have been safely reunited with their families, the remaining cases have left the community in anguish.

Root Causes and Systemic Issues

Experts attribute the disappearances to several underlying factors, including mental health challenges, coercion into criminal activities, and societal neglect. Statistics show that in 2024, over half of Toronto’s missing youth cases involved Black children—110 out of 200. Despite these alarming numbers, the lack of media coverage and public awareness has left the affected families feeling abandoned.

What Can Parents Do?

To parents, particularly those of African descent, it is critical to remain vigilant:

1. Communicate Openly: Build trust and maintain open conversations with your children about their daily lives and relationships.

2. Educate and Empower: Teach them to recognize danger signs and avoid risky situations.

3. Monitor Digital Spaces: Keep an eye on their online activities and social media interactions.

4. Engage with the Community: Participate in local initiatives to strengthen collective efforts in protecting our children.

Community Advocacy and Action

Activist Shana McCalla has initiated a petition on Change.org titled “Bring Them Home: Our Black Boys Are Missing—We Need Immediate Action!” With over 2,700 signatures, the petition aims to push authorities to prioritize finding the missing boys and addressing the root causes of their disappearances.

Organizations like the Brampton Black Empowerment Unit have been hosting town halls, collaborating with law enforcement, and discussing ways to create safer environments for Black youth.

A Message to the World

To governments, community leaders, and organizations worldwide: step up and take action to protect our youth. Their lives and futures are at stake, and they deserve better.

To those responsible for these disappearances: the world is watching, and justice will prevail.

How You Can Help

Sign and Share: Amplify the petition at Change.org.

Spread Awareness: Share this story and updates on social media to keep the conversation alive.

Attend Events: Participate in local town halls and discussions addressing these issues.

Report Information: If you know anything about the missing boys, contact local authorities immediately.

Use these hashtags to raise awareness and show support:
#BringThemHome
#BlackYouthMatter
#JusticeForOurBoys
#ProtectOurKids
#BlackLivesMatter
#EndTheSilence
#CommunityUnity
#StopTheDisparities
#NoMoreMissingChildren

Together, we can protect our children, amplify their stories, and ensure their safety. To the families of the missing boys: your community stands with you, and we will not stop fighting for their safe return.

Alexander Luyima
Director Community Programs and Information

African Descent Ontario