Viola Desmond Awards and Bursary Ceremony

All TMU students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to the 16th annual Viola Desmond Awards and Bursary Ceremony, hosted by TMU’s Office of the Vice-President, Equity and Community Inclusion (OVPECI). This event honours the outstanding contributions of Black women and gender-diverse people whose labor, creativity and passion enrich our community.

Join us on November 6 to celebrate their remarkable achievements and the enduring legacy of Viola Desmond, a key figure in the fight for human rights for Black Canadians. This date commemorates Viola's historic stand against racism in November 1946.

What to expect

At the ceremony, you will have the opportunity to celebrate and honour exceptional Black women and gender-diverse people whose contributions are ensuring that Viola's legacy thrives for generations to come. The event highlights their significant contributions while supporting the next generation of leaders. Additionally, the ceremony celebrates the ongoing impact of Viola Desmond’s legacy in advancing equity, diversity and inclusion within the TMU community.

Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy live performances. Delicious food and refreshments will be served.

Please note that the Viola Desmond Awards and Bursary Ceremony is a vibrant celebration; attendees are encouraged to dress in clothing that makes them feel their best.

Schedule

• 5 p.m. | Doors open for reception and refreshments
• 6 p.m. | Ceremony begins 
• 8 p.m. | Ceremony ends 

Partnering to honour Viola’s legacy

The Viola Desmond Awards and Bursary Ceremony is presented by OVPECI in partnership with the Lincoln Alexander School of Law and other campus partners on the Viola Desmond Awards Planning Committee. 

For the last 16 years, TMU’s Viola Desmond Awards and Bursary Ceremony has highlighted the achievements and impact of Black women and gender-diverse people at TMU.

Accessibility

The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres has the following accessibility amenities and features:

• The entrance on Yonge Street is at ground level, leading directly into the lobby. 
• Elevators provide access to the upper floors. 
• There are two washrooms with accessibility features located on the Elgin Lounge level. 
• A gender neutral washroom is also available on level 5 of the building.

Food and refreshments will be served in lounges on Levels 4, 5 and 6. The lounge on level 4 may only be accessed by staircase. The ceremony will take place in Winter Garden Theatre, with wheelchair accessible spaces available near the front of the theatre. Volunteers will be available to assist.

The university is committed to the accessibility and inclusion of persons with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to ensure your full participation, please let us know on the registration form or contact the OVPECI at violadesmond@torontomu.ca.

Questions?

For any inquiries or additional information, please contact the OVPECI at violadesmond@torontomu.ca.