The BC government is asking for help to better identify existing gaps and create a more inclusive, equitable province.
The province is doing a public consultation to help inform the government about how to collect data in a way that is reflective of the needs and experiences of Indigenous, Black, and people of colour (IBPOC) communities. The public engagement will run until November 30th and is available in multiple languages on the BC Government’s website.
“Systemic racism exists everywhere, including in government policies and programs, and we know that too many communities are facing barriers in their lives because of it,” said Rachna Singh, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives. “This engagement will help shed more light on the experiences of people using government services in B.C., so that we can break down these barriers they’re facing, identify gaps and deliver better supports. It will also ensure that our approach to collecting data meets the needs of IBPOC communities and does not exacerbate existing systemic issues.”
In addition, Singh will meet with IBPOC communities for more targeted feedback this fall, and an effort will be made to meet with IBPOC individuals who may have also experienced discrimination for other reasons such as gender, sexual orientation, faith or ability.