BLAC Raises Concerns Over Rising Evictions in Toronto Social Housing

Black Tenants Disproportionately Impacted by Eviction Trends, Advocates Say

TORONTO, ON — The Black Legal Action Centre (BLAC) is raising concerns about what it describes as troubling eviction trends in Toronto’s social housing system, warning that Black tenants continue to be disproportionately affected.

During a deputation to the City of Toronto’s Economic and Community Development Committee on April 9, BLAC supported a motion aimed at addressing evictions through the collection of race-based data. The motion, brought forward by the Confronting Anti-Black Racism Advisory Committee (CABRAC), seeks to respond to what advocates say is a growing housing crisis impacting Black communities.

Combined Evictions Highlighted as Key Concern

In its submission, BLAC pointed to a notable increase in “combined evictions,” a practice where tenants receive multiple eviction notices at the same time.

These notices may include:

• Rent arrears
• Allegations of safety concerns
• Claims of illegal activity
• Property maintenance issues

BLAC explained that even when tenants are able to resolve rent arrears, housing providers may still proceed with eviction applications before the Landlord and Tenant Board based on the additional notices.

According to the organization, this approach can limit tenants’ ability to remain housed, even after addressing financial obligations.

Calls for Immediate Policy Action

BLAC’s recommendations to the committee include:

• Implementing a temporary eviction moratorium
• Collecting race-based data on evictions
• Expanding rehousing supports
• Prioritizing housing stability for Black, Indigenous, and racialized tenants

The organization emphasized that access to adequate housing is a fundamental human right, and that current eviction patterns reflect ongoing systemic challenges.

Motion Deferred, Advocacy Continues

Despite the concerns raised, the motion was deferred by the committee, delaying immediate action on the proposed measures.

BLAC says it will continue to monitor developments and advocate for policy changes aimed at improving housing stability and addressing systemic inequities within Toronto’s social housing system.

Broader Context: Housing and Equity in Toronto

The issue comes amid ongoing discussions about affordability and access to housing in Toronto, where demand for social housing continues to outpace supply.

Advocates argue that without targeted interventions, existing disparities may continue to widen, particularly for communities already facing systemic barriers.

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