VICTORIA – Racism comes in many forms. And so do the ways to address it.
Every day people and organizations use art, theatre, community dialogue events and a host of other forms of community engagement to combat racism.
The B.C. government is allocating $365,000 for community anti-racism projects. Proposals for funding are being accepted in two categories:
* Anti-Racism Community Networks: This funding is for the maintenance of established networks and/or local outreach, education and community engagement that address racism.
* Anti-Racism Projects: This funding is for the design and delivery of projects and community engagement that address racism in communities.
In previous years, projects that have benefited from this type of funding include the Thompson Okanagan Respect Network, a regional group that comprises the communities of Penticton, Vernon, Kelowna, Kamloops and Salmon Arm.
Network representative Annette Sharkey and her team have found that communication, collaboration and respect are all key to addressing racism in their region. With funding provided by government, their series of events under the umbrella of Thompson Okanagan Respect Lives Here, included theatre productions, panel discussions, public art displays, a diversity walk and community workshops.
