MLA Dean welcomes community multiculturalism and anti-racism grants

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Victoria – Mitzi Dean, MLA for Esquimalt-Metchosin, is welcoming funds through the province’s Multiculturalism Grant Program for projects designed to promote multiculturalism and fight racism.

“On behalf of New Democrat MLAs in Victoria, I want to say thank you to the organizations and their volunteers who are providing spaces where everyone can feel welcome,” said Dean. “Whether you’re a newcomer to our community or you’re trying to learn more about the diverse cultures of your neighbours, these are some of the people who are bringing us together.”

Four projects in Victoria will each receive $4,000 from this latest round of grants. These include:

  • LifeCycles Project will use the funds to create a gardening apprenticeship program that connects youth from diverse backgrounds.
  • Ballet Victoria will collaborate with the Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS) to offer new Canadians a chance to experience the ballet free of charge.
  • Here Magazine will host round table discussions on various topics important for better integration and inter-cultural understanding.
  • The Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) will sponsor an artistic youth project that supports young people to explore the subjects of identity, race, faith, and belonging.

A total of 76 community groups around the province will receive funding though the Multiculturalism Grant Program. The program promotes intercultural trust and understanding by funding projects that bring people together in creative ways to enhance multiculturalism and address racism. The B.C. Government provides $300,000 annually to communities across B.C. through this grant program.

This grant program is just one way the province is tackling human rights issues. In November 2018 the BC NDP government introduced legislative amendments to the Human Rights Code that will re-establish a human rights commission to promote and protect human rights for all British Columbians.

Learn More: Multiculturalism and anti-racism strengthened by grants: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019TAC0019-000401