October 14, 2025
The ASE Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities recently celebrated a remarkable milestone with its Fifth Anniversary Gala and Awards, under the inspiring theme “Celebrating Unseen Legends.”
The evening was nothing short of extraordinary. It brought together a vibrant community of Black Canadians with disabilities, their allies, and supporters in a warm, affirming environment that radiated belonging, pride, and unity. Across the room, one could feel the collective strength and resilience of a community that continues to redefine what inclusion and empowerment look like in Canada.
Founded and led by Liza Arnason, the ASE Community Foundation stands as Canada’s first national Black and disability-led and serving organization. It is a trailblazer creating space for visibility, leadership, and full participation for Black Canadians with disabilities. This milestone event not only celebrated five years of groundbreaking work but also honored the growing movement ASE has sparked across the country.
In a powerful moment of support, Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard presented a Senate Recognition Award to the Foundation – a national acknowledgment of ASE’s tireless advocacy and transformative contributions. The evening’s keynote speaker, Anthony Lue, delivered an unforgettable address, sharing his personal journey of resilience and reminding everyone that disability does not mark the end of one’s dreams, but often the beginning of new possibilities.
From heartfelt speeches to joyful connections on the gala floor, the night embodied what community truly means: shared strength, mutual respect, and love in action. ASE’s ongoing work continues to empower Black people with disabilities to take up space, build capacity, and advance social and economic inclusion across Canada.
To Liza Arnason, the ASE team, and every supporter who has made this journey possible, congratulations on five extraordinary years! Your work continues to inspire and uplift.
