By BC Gov |
More community and Indigenous groups are receiving grants to help their communities participate in the BC Demographic Survey.
Government has awarded nearly $100,000 to 39 additional organizations to raise awareness and encourage more people to take the BC Demographic Survey.
This brings the total amount awarded to more than $183,000 distributed to 74 community and Indigenous groups throughout B.C.
“The BC Demographic Survey is a key step in our effort of addressing and eliminating systemic racism,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Citizens’ Services. “These grants will help community organizations connect with community members to achieve our goal of identifying, and then eliminating, systemic racism in government services.”
The Anti-Racism Data Act allows government to safely collect race-based data through the BC Demographic Survey. This data will be used to help identify where people are not getting equitable access to government services so that the Province can make those services more accessible and inclusive.
“It is important for everyone in B.C. to participate in this survey,” said Pulcherie Mboussi, executive director, African Art and Cultural Community Contributor CCC Inc. “It is crucial for us to fight against racism through a deliberate and collective action. This is a step to win against racism.”
The BC Demographic Survey is part of the Province’s cross-government work to collaborate with Indigenous Peoples and racialized communities to dismantle systemic racism and build a better, more inclusive province.
The BC Demographic Survey launched on June 14, 2023. People have until 11:59 p.m. (Pacific time) on Oct. 15, 2023, to complete it.
People needing assistance to fill out the survey can call toll-free at 1 833 376-2452, Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Pacific time) and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Pacific time). Telephone assistance is not available on Sundays or statutory holidays.