Cicely Belle Blain and Becca Schwenk forged a connection through their shared passion for social justice. Their allyship is active and grew from a foundation of camaraderie and solidarity.

Their story is part of a series about Black Canadians and the people they consider allies. For more stories about the experiences of Black Canadians — from anti-Black racism to success stories within the Black community — check out Being Black in Canada, a CBC project Black Canadians can be proud of. Visit cbc.ca/beingblackincanada.