A safe space for those facing racism and inequality.
That’s the goal behind the Prince George Public Library’s (PGPL) updated strategic plan as its board announces a commitment to celebrating and acknowledging diversity as a result of recent events on the basis of that very subject.
In the last several months, the world has raised its voices in hopes of bringing racial injustice to light and calling for equality and representation across many fields, specifically for Black, Indigenous and people of colour.
“For me, the library represents that one place on earth where there is no expectation, but to learn, explore, be inspired or just be,” says PGPL Board Trustee Arlene Stevens in a statement.
“I want to ensure that all people are represented within our library’s walls and that their stories live here, too. Our library is a better place when the stories of Black, First Nations, Métis, South Asian and other people of colour can be found here.”
The PGPL’s commitment to anti-racism is set to include the following actions, which it says has already begun:
- Ensuring that all events hosted on library property and all official library communications include an acknowledgement that the library conducts its work on the ancestral lands of the Lheidli T’enneh people
- Reviewing and updating library spaces and procedures to ensure that Black, Indigenous, and people of colour are treated with dignity and respect, and that they feel safe and welcome at the library
- Developing a Diversity Policy that supports the recruitment and development of Black, Indigenous, and people of colour at all levels of the organization and Board of Trustees
- Consulting with the public and organizations that advocate for and serve Black, Indigenous, and people of colour
- Creating programs and events that are specifically designed to reach Black, Indigenous, and people of colour
Staff are also set to host public consultations with the Prince George community, hoping to understand how the Library can provide a better outlet for those who regularly experience racism.
“We know that this is a time for listening to Black, Indigenous, and people of colour,” adds PGPL Director Paul Burry with its latest strategic plan covering 2021 through to 2026.
“We also acknowledge that we have a professional and ethical responsibility to ensure that library collections, programs, services, resources, and staff are employed in service of the goal of dismantling racism.”
For more information, you can visit the PGPL’s website.
