Coping in the Shadows: Uncovering the Need for Support of African, Afro-Caribbean and Black Youth after Homicide

Background and Purpose: African, Afro-Caribbean, and Black (ACB) communities are disproportionately affected by homicide, yet little research exists that explores the developmental and cultural needs of young surviving family members and friends of homicide victims. This gap leaves policymakers and practitioners with limited evidence to inform effective interventions. In the Aftermath is a research study designed to explore the impact and coping strategies of young ACB survivors of homicide victims ages 12-16 in Toronto, Canada.

The study aims to understand the impact and coping experiences of ACB youth survivors of homicide, identify barriers to support, and explore culturally and developmentally appropriate models of care.

Methods: This qualitative study used a purposive sampling approach to recruit 8 ACB youth aged 12–16 from six Toronto neighborhoods that experience high rates of homicide. Recruitment was led by Neighborhood Ambassadors—trusted community members with lived experience and deep ties to local youth networks. Of the participants, 50 percent identified as female, and 50 percent identified as males. Data collection was conducted through virtual focus groups and one on one interviews. Thematic data analysis was completed by the research team, which consisted of Neighborhood Ambassadors and Research Assistants, in two stages: (1) the research team conducted individual analysis, in which they identified codes and common threads across each transcript. (2) Then the research team collectively made connections across all codes identified to develop themes.

Results: Three primary themes emerged; (1) active coping strategies such as sports, music, and peer relationships to manage emotional distress, (2) environmental stressors, such as violence, drug use, homelessness, and over-policing amplified trauma. (3) ambivalence toward formal mental health services due to cultural stigma, a lack of relatable providers, and the absence of homicide-specific resources.

Conclusions and Implications: Findings from this study highlight the urgent need for culturally grounded, trauma-informed mental health supports for ACB youth grieving the loss of loved ones to homicide. Policy and practice implications include the development of homicide-specific grief resources, peer-based support models, and community programming that reduces stigma and builds trust. Additionally, programs that equip parents / caregivers with tools to speak openly with youth about loss, and investments in safe community spaces and harm reduction strategies—such as addressing substance use —are essential. This study underscores the critical role of youth-informed, culturally responsive services and resources for addressing the impact of community gun violence on ACB youth.