B.C. is allocating an additional $372,500 to its Resilience BC Anti-Racism Network to help organizations combat racism. Thirty-six organizations will receive the increased funding to support local initiatives in 57 communities around the province.
The Literacy Alberni Society will get $20,000 for initiatives in Port Alberni, Parksville/Qualicum, Tofino/Ucluelet and Alberni- Clayoquot Regional District, according to the province.
The funds will be used to develop and share learning resources for responding to racism, deepen understanding on local priorities and approaches and to develop local response protocols.
“Racism is real and it’s pervasive in our communities. We must take action to combat racism in our local communities,” said Rachna Singh, parliamentary secretary for anti-racism initiatives. “Our government is increasing funding for the Resilience BC Anti-Racism Network to empower British Columbians to identify and help stamp out discrimination.”
The one-time funding increase will enable communities to engage in additional projects that provide anti-racism resources and support.
“In response to the recent increases in racist attacks and incidents, this funding increase will help Resilience BC expand our capacity to work with communities to help combat racism,” said Ravi Saxena, executive director, Immigrant and Multicultural Services Society of Prince George. “Hate has no place in B.C. and every person in British Columbia has a right to feel safe.”
