Letter to the Editor

Today marks the beginning of Anti-Racism Awareness Week in British Columbia (May 26 to June 1) – an important time to reflect on the work we have done and what we still need to do to confront racism in all its forms.

Racism, whether overt or subtle, systemic or interpersonal, continues to harm individuals and communities throughout our province. It affects access to education, health care, employment and justice. It erodes trust in systems and in one’s sense of belonging.

One person acting alone cannot eradicate racism, nor can it be done overnight. That is why each and every one of us must commit to being actively anti-racist every day, in every aspect of our lives.

As government, we are committed to fighting racism in all its forms and have taken significant strides to dismantle it. We are coming up on the one-year anniversary of the launch of the Racist Incident Helpline, and we have already seen it have a tremendous impact, with 94% of callers saying their needs have been met.

We continue to stand with communities affected by hate. So far, the Anti-Hate Community Support Fund has helped 36 organizations with over $500,000 to repair damage and improve safety at places like cultural centres and places of worship.

At the same time, work is ongoing to address deeper issues of racism through regular meetings to shape the Anti-Racism Action Plan and continued research, under the Anti-Racism Data Act, into the systemic barriers facing Indigenous and racialized people throughout B.C.

We know this is just the beginning. There is still much work ahead to dismantle the deep-rooted systems of racism and build a just, inclusive and safe province for everyone.

Being anti-racist is a year-round commitment, not just something confined to one week. I encourage everyone to explore how they can be anti-racist, whether that’s by attending cultural events, learning through workshops, or having honest and open discussions with your loved ones and colleagues. By marking Anti-Racism Awareness Week in our own meaningful ways, we take steps together toward building a province where everyone feels valued, respected and seen.

Jessie Sunner,

B.C. parliamentary secretary for anti-racism initiatives

Article Share