BC NDP MLAs Susie Chant and Bowinn Ma says funding will strengthen cultural safety during emergencies in North Vancouver

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NORTH VANCOUVER – BC NDP MLAs Susie Chant and Bowinn Ma say new funding will help make sure that local emergency management practices are inclusive and respectful of Indigenous people and communities.

“It is so crucial that when we are planning for potential crises, we’re keeping in mind all members of our communities,” said Bowinn Ma, MLA for North Vancouver – Lonsdale. “This Truth and Reconciliation training is a perfect opportunity for our local firefighters to continue learning and understanding how to best help our Indigenous populations during emergencies, in a way that’s culturally sensitive and safe.”

The City of North Vancouver is receiving $33,960 in funding for Year 4 of their Truth and Reconciliation Training.

The provincial government is providing approximately $1 million for 20 projects around BC. Projects include staff and volunteer training and building and strengthening relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

“Emergencies are tough on everyone, and making sure our response is inclusive and culturally safe is extraordinarily important,” says Susie Chant, MLA for North Vancouver – Seymour. “This funding supports hands-on initiatives like North Vancouver’s Truth and Reconciliation Training, where first responders and Indigenous community members can connect, share stories, and create a more inclusive and respectful approach to emergency response.”

The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund supports local governments and First Nations to better prepare for and respond to disasters. In addition to Indigenous cultural safety and cultural-humility training, CEPF funding also supports:

  • disaster-risk reduction and climate adaptation;
  • volunteer and composite fire departments equipment and training;
  • emergency operations centre equipment and training;
  • public notification and evacuation route planning;
  • emergency support-services equipment and training.

Since the CEPF was established in 2017, more than $300 million has been provided to First Nations and local governments for over 2,170 projects.