Allyship in Action (photo courtesy of the Social Planning Council for North Okanagan)

By Liam Verster

Allyship in Action

Vernon-based video showcases action against racism

Dec 7, 2021 | 11:51 AM

A new video shot in Vernon shows individuals and organizations in the community taking action to combat racism.

‘Allyship in Action’ tells the stories of community groups choosing to take action to increase awareness of the hurtful consequences that racism creates.

The video begins with the story of the local chapter of Stand Up Against Racism, and then interweaves stories of local schools promoting inclusivity, celebrating diversity, and learning how to become an ally.

“Two of these grassroots initiatives were imagined and enacted separately as a response to the damaging and unwelcome distribution of hate flyers last year while the other was in response to increased anti-Asian racism related to the pandemic,” said Annette Sharkey, executive director of the Social Planning Council for the North Okanagan, which sponsored the production.

Last Seen June 27

Police asking for help locating missing man

57m ago

Open Burning Ban

Vernon, RDNO, other municipalities to ban campfires Friday

20h ago

Unsuccessful Alternate Approval Process

Public opposes borrowing for Swan Lake Wastewater Recovery Project

20h ago

The video is open to anyone to view, and Sharkey encourages people to download the video and use it as a jumping-off point for having open discussions.

In addition to this video, the Social Planning Council plans on hosting workshops and webinars in the new year that will allow the public to learn more about racism locally and encourage them to become an ally.

‘Allyship in Action’ was produced with support from the Resilience B.C. Anti-Racism Network, which is funded by the provincial government. Partners involved in this video include the Filipino Association of Vernon, School District 22, the Okanagan Regional Library, Canadian Mental Health Association’s Restorative Justice Program, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

by Liam Verster

View Comments