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This project, supported by Embrace BC and the Government of Canada, aims to assess the presence and experiences of discrimination on the Sunshine Coast. With an emphasis on community engagement, we will explore issues like racism, ageism, and homophobia while identifying community assets that promote inclusivity. By addressing the impacts of NIMBYism and uncovering hidden issues of discrimination, we seek to foster open conversations, develop supportive networks, and create a safer environment for all residents, regardless of their background.
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Organizing Against Racism and Hate Sunshine Coast NEEDS ASSESSMENT / ASSET MAPPING Presence of, experiences of, countering the effects of discrimination Yr. 1 of potential 3 yr. funding
Partners and Links • Funder: Embrace BC • In Partnership with The District of Sechelt, Mindfullness Project (Health Canada), Community Schools • Linked with the Welcoming and Inclusive Communities Dialogue • Member of the regional OARH Group. This project is made possible through funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.
Why Look at this issue? • Current shift in population and demographics • NIMBYISM a worrying trend • Incidents in other coastal communities
Results - Themes • Difficult to get anyone to talk about discrimination, let alone racism and hate. It may be unsafe=hidden issue. • Those who do not experience it deny its existence • People need a language and safe place • Readiness at community level-needs official recognition / role models
Results - Types of ‘isms’ encountered • Ageism • Racism • Homophobia • Geographic (location on Coast) • Disableism • Faith / religious • Coastism (Length of residency on the Coast)
Results - Concerns • Recognition that multi-cultural events are great, but not enough • NIMBYism • Lack of apparent connection mainstream Coast to Sechelt Nation/other aboriginal groups locally • Geographic discrimination
Results - Assets • Community feeling, Size of communities • Community centers, libraries, neutral public spaces • Festivals and (multi cultural) community events/ dinners • Faith communities who work towards tolerance and acceptance of all • Unions (workers rights regardless of ‘isms’)
Results - Assets • Retired population with time, skills, positive attitudes and resources • Mindfulness, Harmlessness training • Youth Action Committee • Aboriginal SD46 Programs • DOS/SCCSS
Next Steps FILM Festival • Sechelt Gibsons • March 2012 Local and national diversity films Post Cards…. Non violent communication training
Contacts • April Struthers, Consultant 604 989 4223 april@alofii.com • Christien Kaaij, Consultant 604 414 5616 christien@alofii.com • Robbert Visscher, Consultant robbert@alofii.com Alof!iC O N S U L T A N C Y a division of Alof!i Enterprises Inc. info@alofii.com.www.alofii.com.604 414 5616 3494 Mackenzie Ave.Powell River, B.C..V8A 5G2