Community projects countering racism receive 300,000

Community-based organizations in British Columbia have been awarded $300,000 through the B. C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grants program to combat racism and promote multiculturalism. Grants of up to $5,000 will support projects that engage the arts, education, and awareness campaigns, with all initiatives required to begin by April 1, 2025, and conclude by March 31, 2026. Among the funded projects is the Intersectional Advocacy Resources initiative by Independent Living Vernon, designed to assist Indigenous and racialized individuals in navigating government systems.

Additionally, the B. C. Black Film Festival will showcase the work of Black filmmakers in Victoria, while the Garden of Compassion Society will host a cultural event merging Indigenous and Korean traditional arts. These projects align with the province's commitment to dismantling systemic racism and fostering a more inclusive society, evidenced by ongoing initiatives like the Racist Incident Helpline and the Anti-Racism Act. The funding aims to empower marginalized communities and create platforms for intercultural dialogue.

For those interested, a full list of grant recipients is accessible via the BC government’s website. Together, these efforts underscore a significant step towards a more equitable British Columbia.