VICTORIA – More than 100 people and organizations have been nominated for this year’s B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards for their efforts to fight racism and strengthen diversity.
The B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards are held annually to honour British Columbians for their leadership in promoting multiculturalism and addressing racism. The 2022 ceremony was held virtually.
“I want to acknowledge the hard work and unpaid labour Black, Indigenous and racialized British Columbians take on to fight for systemic change. Thank you for your courage, passion and persistence,” said Rachna Singh, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives.
The virtual awards ceremony was held on Monday, March 21, 2022, for the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, where Singh recognized the contributions of five award recipients in three categories:
Breaking Barriers Awards, recognizing outstanding work in tackling systemic or institutional racism and reducing barriers for marginalized communities:
* Aimee Chalifoux (Nanaimo)
* Kamloops African Society (Kamloops)
Intercultural Trust Awards, recognizing outstanding work in building intercultural trust and understanding and/or reducing racism and hate between communities:
* Imtiaz Popat (Vancouver)
* Stand With Asians Coalition (Burnaby)
Emerging Leader Award, recognizing youth and young adults age 15-30 for outstanding work in building intercultural trust, tackling racism or reducing barriers for marginalized communities:
* Dr. RahelZewude (Vancouver)
The Emerging Leader Award recipient also receives a $5,000 grant to be donated to an organization of their choice. This year, the grant will go to Black Physicians of British Columbia.
