By Ken Herar
Cycling4Diversity was created last year when I decided to form a team to spread the message that we need not only speak about diversity, but also take a closer look at whether we are celebrating or just talking about it. The C4D initiative is about promoting intercultural dialogue which is something I believe we have deviated away from within Canada .
Over the last several years, I have received feedback from readers that show there are some growing issues which need to be addressed within our neighbourhoods, workplaces and schools. As being an athlete myself, I have been noticing many of our sporting teams are starting to become more and more segregated where ethnic groups are forming their own teams and leagues. Is this a bad thing or a good thing? In my own personal opinion, this potentially could become a growing concern for the future. As our communities become more multicultural, the very components that we use to promote and celebrate diversity are the same ones that are isolating us.
Many years ago, I was part of a South Asian soccer team and enjoyed playing with them very much. A few years ago, a former member of the Canadian National Soccer Team approached me and mentioned that South Asians should be representing the town in which they reside and not isolating themselves or having their own clubs. What he later expressed, is that they are some of the most talented players within our communities.
The issue with ethnic leagues or any form of ethnic clubs, is that it limits our outreach in a multicultural society. Our focus should be on more integrated teams and activities on and off the field which will in turn strengthen our relationships in all sectors in how we live so it doesn’t become an “us vs them” situation.
Many people supported the concept of C4D last year. They were excited about how we delivered a message in a unique way that captured the imagination of many British Columbians. I was encouraged to do it again this year and in the process the initiative has grown tremendously. C4D is reflected by a team of individuals who believe in the message of diversity, culture and the need to address issues regarding racism. This year the team received 8 proclamations from local governments and the province of British Columbia .
A number of students along the way asked, “How long have you all known each other?” The riders responded that many of us only met the morning of the ride. This proves that in order to work together to accomplish something positive, people don‘t have to know one another.
Diversity is about working as a team, and I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to work with such fine individuals who are passionate about building a vibrant multicultural society. The support from local service providers and sponsors were incredible. I was deeply moved to see how many people believed in this important message that we were honoured to carry throughout our communities. The C4D initiative is committed in celebrating diversity and discussing issues throughout the rest of the year: ” Building bridges of dialogue, one city at a time.”
Ken “Kulwinder” Herar is a Mission-based writer and a winner of the champions of diversity award for his columns in the LINK newspaper and other Fraser Valley newspapers. Herar can be reached at [email protected] or view his blog at http://www.kenherar.blogspot.com
