25 January 2021
Nominate B.C.’s champions of multiculturalism, anti-racism
The Province is seeking nominations to honour individuals and organizations that are strengthening multiculturalism and taking a stand against racism and discrimination throughout B.C.
Beginning Jan. 25, 2021, British Columbians can submit nominations for the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards for individuals, organizations and youth whose work has enhanced inclusion and cultural diversity, and reduced racism and discrimination in their communities.
The call for nominations closes at 5 p.m. (Pacific time), Feb. 22, 2021. There are three categories, with five awards in total:
- Intercultural Trust Awards (two awards):
Provided to an outstanding organization or individual for their work in building intercultural trust and understanding and/or reducing racism and hate between communities - Breaking Barriers Award (two awards):
Provided to an outstanding organization or individual for their work in tackling systemic or institutional racism and reducing barriers for marginalized communities - Emerging Leader Award (one award):
Provided to an outstanding youth/young adult, aged 15 to 30, for their work in building intercultural trust, tackling racism or reducing barriers for marginalized communities
All nominees will receive a certificate of recognition. Award winners will receive plaques. The youth award recipient will receive $5,000 to donate to a not-for-profit organization of their choice to further promote multiculturalism and anti-racism.
Nominations will be reviewed by an independent panel of judges made up of members of the provincial Multicultural Advisory Council and a former award recipient.
British Columbia’s Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards ceremony will take place virtually in late March to coincide with the annual International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
Quick Facts:
- The B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards were established in 2008.
- Almost 40 individuals and organizations have received awards.
- Recipients include:
- Henry Yu, University of British Columbia history professor, whose work has drawn attention to the cultural and historical ties between First Nations and Asia Pacific migrants in B.C.;
- Boma Brown, founder of the Support Network for Indigenous Women and Women of Colour;
- Farid Rohani, a founder of the Laurier Institution; and
- Spice Radio for organizing the annual Raise Your Hands Against Racism campaign.