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By Vernon Matters Staff

Province provides new funding for anti-racism work

Dec 9, 2020 | 12:27 PM

The B.C. government is increasing resources to address racism and expand multiculturalism as part of the economic recovery from COVID-19.

“One of the most devastating side effects of COVID-19 has been the increase of racism and hate crimes across B.C.,” said Rachna Singh, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives. “There is no place for racism and hate in British Columbia. That’s why we are investing resources to make communities in all corners of the province more welcoming and inclusive.”

To deliver four anti-racism initiatives, $1.9 million is being provided from B.C.’s economic recovery plan, Stronger BC. This includes:

  • a one-time expansion and enhancement of the Resilience BC anti-racism network;
  • an anti-racism public education campaign;
  • a one-time lift to the Multiculturalism Grants Program; and
  • a new institutional change program to address systemic discrimination.

“Government’s provision of anti-racism funding is a welcomed part of the B.C. economic recovery plan,” said David Lau, executive director, Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society – the provincial hub of Resilience BC. “This additional funding will be a tremendous support in helping communities address the recent surge in hate and racism during the pandemic, enhancing the work of the Resilience BC anti-racism network towards creating a safe, more inclusive and welcoming province for everyone.”

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Last year, the province launched Resilience BC. This network strengthens communities’ capacity to combat hate activity, while also identifying and addressing the broader issues of systemic and institutionalized racism. In addition to providing more supports to tackle racism, the funding will add Chilliwack and the Sea to Sky corridor as new community spokes in the network.

Resilience BC is active in more than 50 communities throughout B.C.

by Vernon Matters Staff
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