Community-based organizations across B.C. that aim to address racism and discrimination are getting a helping hand from the province.
A total of 192 projects have now received support through the BC Multiculturalism Grants program, splitting around $1.2 million in funds to deliver more anti-racism initiatives.
Priority for these recent grants was given to projects addressing anti-Indigenous, anti-Asian and anti-Black racism.
A handful of Vancouver Island-based organizations made the cut, including the Sid Williams Theatre in Courtenay. It was given $5,000 in an effort to increase its artistic programming by/for IBPOC artists and audiences this year.
Meanwhile, North Island College was given $10,000 as it looks to address anti-Asian racism through education. Find the full list of recipients here.
“Racism is pervasive and it reaches into every corner of our province. The COVID-19 pandemic has only made the situation worse,” adds Rachna Singh, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives.
“That’s why these grants prioritize projects addressing anti-Indigenous, anti-Asian and anti-Black racism. These grants will not only help organizations across the province to address systemic racism, but also provide learning opportunities to foster better understanding and encourage intercultural conversation in B.C. communities,” she says.
