The Right to Recover:
Building Equitable Neuro-Justice in Ontario
This campaign would unite our partners across health, housing, justice, and gender-based violence sectors to advocate for equitable access to brain injury rehabilitation and systemic inclusion for people living with ABI. It builds directly on our current work with the Neuro-trauma Pathway and our existing partners/initiatives.
The focus areas include:
Promoting equitable, publicly funded access to brain injury rehabilitation for all Ontarians.
Addressing intersections of ABI with homelessness, incarceration, addiction, and violence through trauma-informed and inclusive systems.
Developing integrated “Neuro-Trauma Pathways” that link hospitals, community supports, and mental health services.
Amplifying survivor voices through storytelling, advocacy, and creative public awareness.
The campaign also aligns with Bill C-206 – National Strategy on Brain Injuries Act (2025), which calls for a coordinated national approach to brain injury prevention, treatment, and recovery. Our initiative positions Mind Forward as a model for how that vision can be implemented locally through partnership, inclusion, and survivor leadership.
- The committee has established a mission: “To facilitate the development of an inclusive and anti-racist culture and practice at Mind Forward and will be responsible for developing the EDI Action Plan”
- Created values and guiding principles: “Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, Collaboration, Transparency, Education, Reflection and Awareness”
- Developed an EDI Awareness calendar and monthly awareness materials.
- Planned training initiatives for this upcoming year, such as, “EDI and Intersection Fundamentals”; “Understanding Racial Micro-aggressions in the Workplace”; “Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness”… just to name a few.
- Completed a comprehensive review and revision of critical HR and Clinical policies.
- Developed fundamental materials to guide the Agency’s EDI work. With the guidance of EMpower Strategy Group, the committee has created a Mind Forward EDI Policy and Action Plan based on the survey data collected.
Systematic complexities of community-based acquired brain injury rehabilitation and the interconnection of ABI, mental health, and addictions
Presented at OBIA (2023) and HHS (2024)
Background and Aims
Acquired Brain Injury, mental health, and addictions are multifaceted, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Currently these disorders have been managed by different systems of care; however, there exists a need for a comprehensive model that is able to treat comorbid disorders as primary.
The purpose of this study is to examine the complexities of providing community-based rehabilitation and the interrelation among ABI, mental health, and addictions. Furthermore, by utilizing case studies we will demonstrate that the only way to perpetually enhance the lives and rehabilitation goals of the individual is to treat comorbid disorders holistically
Advancing Equity in Brain Injury Care: Addressing Systemic Barriers and Enhancing Rehabilitative Outcomes
Presented at HHS 2025 and OBIA 2025
Acquired Brain Injuries (ABI) affect individuals, families, and communities, yet access to care remains unequal due to systemic and social barriers. This presentation explores how Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) principles can improve ABI care by addressing disparities in access, outcomes, and long-term support. Using demographic data, case studies, and practical strategies, we’ll highlight how culturally responsive, community-based approaches can enhance rehabilitation and engagement. Attendees will gain tools to implement inclusive practices and reduce barriers for diverse populations affected by ABI.