The Systematic Racism and the BC Government Survey

The "Systematic Racism and the BC Government Survey" program is a vital initiative aimed at addressing and mitigating systemic racism within government services in British Columbia. Open to all residents of the province, the BC Demographic Survey seeks to gather critical data that will inform and drive the creation of stronger, more accessible, and inclusive programs and services. In this comprehensive program, we delve into the significance of this survey, its origins, and the perspectives of experts actively engaged in the fight against systemic racism.

Understanding the BC Demographic Survey
The heart of this program lies in the BC Demographic Survey itself. This survey is a groundbreaking tool designed to shed light on the prevalence and impact of systemic racism within government services. It is a product of extensive collaboration with Indigenous, Black, and other racialized communities, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and equity. The survey features a range of questions that touch on race, ethnicity, ancestry, and various facets of identity, allowing for a nuanced understanding of the issues at hand.

Program Overview
The program commences with an informative and educational session, emphasizing the importance of the BC Demographic Survey in the broader context of combatting systemic racism. During this segment, our audience is encouraged to participate by posing questions, which will be expertly addressed by our panel of specialists. At the core of this session is the aim of not only disseminating information but also fostering a meaningful dialogue.

To kick off the proceedings, Shawn Shabaquay, a representative from the Indigenous community, will perform a traditional acknowledgment of the land. This gesture serves as a reminder of the historical context and the importance of addressing systemic racism, particularly concerning Indigenous peoples.

After Shawn's address, we will have the privilege of hearing from two esteemed experts: Samira Golami and Poran Poreghbal. As Registered Clinical Counsellors, they will impart their extensive expertise and vast wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of mental health and counseling. They will shine a spotlight on the psychological repercussions of systemic racism and emphasize the crucial need for mental health support in this context.

The children's engagement in this session was truly remarkable. Hana shared a heartfelt story about her classmate's experience with racism, shedding light on its real-world impact. Mania, a 13-year-old, eloquently defined racism in her own words and shared an inspiring story about the importance of equality, regardless of one's race or colour. As a token of appreciation for their participation, all the children received a small gift.

Our other guest speakers: Mahdiar Bayazi, Parinaz Zhandi and Ali Khoddami.

Interview Segment
The program will culminate in an in-depth interview conducted by Sherry Soltani with our panel of experts. This segment will provide a comprehensive exploration of the topics discussed throughout the program, allowing for a deeper understanding of systemic racism and the role the BC Demographic Survey plays in addressing it.

In summary, the "Systematic Racism and the BC Government Survey" program is a significant step towards combating systemic racism in government services within British Columbia. It emphasizes inclusivity, education, and dialogue as crucial components of this ongoing effort. By engaging with experts and the community, we hope to not only raise awareness but also inspire positive change in the pursuit of a fair and equitable society for all residents of B.C.

Location: West Vancouver Memorial Library

Journalist: Sherry Soltani,
Skyrise Media Society