The Immigrant Multicultural Services Society of Prince George is one of nine northern B.C. organizations taking part in a new provincial initiative to combat racism.
The province launched Resilience BC in November as a province-wide anti-racism network aimed at identifying local issues and creating projects to address systemic and institutionalized racism. Earlier this week, the province announced $75,000 in funding for the nine organizations in northern B.C. to take part in the program.
"There is no place for racism and hate in British Columbia. To fight racism and hate crimes, we must work together in a co-ordinated way in communities in every corner of the province," said Anne Kang, Minister of Citizens' Services and responsible for Multiculturalism, in a press release. "These community organizations will lead action at a local and regional level to respond to and prevent racist and hate activity."
In addition to funding local initiatives, the province has launched an online portal to support people who experience or witness racist incidents. The site can be found online at https://hatecrimesinbc.resiliencebcnetwork.ca/, and offers information in 12 languages.
"The fight against racism in B.C. is urgent. We all have to make sure that no one has to endure racism or discrimination where they live," said Jennifer Rice, MLA for North Coast, said in a press release. "Together we must uphold the diversity and multiculturalism that makes our communities richer, healthier and better connected. Resilience BC supports groups operating within their own communities and areas of expertise, supported by the expertise of other organizations. This will empower B.C. communities to fight racism in ways that are most effective for them."
In addition to the Immigrant Multicultural Services Society, other northern B.C. communities receiving funding include Vanderhoof, Smithers, Dawson Creek, Houston, Prince Rupert, Chetwynd, Terrace and Kitimat.
