Marginalized Tri-Cities residents are being called upon to share their testimonies as B.C. looks to implement a new anti-racism legislation next year.
And the province has granted money to a pair of Port Coquitlam-based groups to help with the outreach program.
South Asian Legal Clinic of BC, as well as Synergy Executive and Boards Consulting Group Ltd., were among 68 organizations that received $308,000 in anti-racism funding.
At up to $5,000 each, it's set to provide public engagement initiatives about B.C.'s anti-racism questionnaire.
"I am encouraging all South Asians across the province to participate in this survey and help the government improve programs and services," said Lali Pawa, spokesperson for South Asian Legal Clinic of BC, in a release today (July 27).
She noted the the clinic has already launched its awareness campaign about the survey, which is available in 15 languages, went live on June 5 and will remain open until Sept. 30.
"We ensure a safe and supported space where honest and open conversations can take place. No one should be left out and left behind."
B.C. is hoping local residents that choose to lend their input through the questionnaire can share how they think the province should address systemic racism to become a more welcoming community.
The goal with the upcoming legislation in 2024, known as the Anti-Racism Act, is to "make a meaningful difference in people's lives."
"Part of how we will become an anti-racist society is by centring the lived experiences of those who have been marginalized by the harms of racism when we try to address it," said Mable Elmore, B.C. Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives, in the same statement.
"These grants will give front-line organizations the opportunity to amplify the voices of the communities that will be most affected by our new anti-racism legislation."
The Port Coquitlam and Tri-Cities engagement sessions are set to culturally appropriate, safe and responsive to each community's needs, the province said.
For more information or to participate in B.C.'s anti-racism questionnaire, you can visit the provincial government's website.
