The provincial government has announced new funding aimed at combatting racial discrimination and promoting diversity in Alberta communities of all sizes.
Under the Anti-Racism Community Grant program more than 30 organizations will receive grants to “help create greater awareness and cross-cultural understanding to reduce racism,” officials said.
The grants are a result of recommendations coming out of the recent Taking Action Against Racism report.
Whether the new program will lead to an overall reduction in racism in the province remains to be seen.
What is known is that efforts to ensure that all residents, regardless of their race, are able to contribute and help move Alberta forward without discrimination is in the best interest of the community at large.
For his part, Ricardo Miranda, minister of culture and tourism, says fighting racism is good for Alberta.
“One of Alberta’s strengths is its diversity,” said Miranda. “Racism has no place in our province. That is why our government is making life better for all Albertans by supporting projects that are working to combat racism and promote inclusiveness.
“With these grants, non-profit groups will be able to educate, inform and engage community members across Alberta.”
The Anti-Racism Community Grant program has $2 million in funding. Eligible organizations can apply for matching grants of up to $25,000 for a range of projects including training and education, development of informational resources, and support services and capacity building.
Goals of the program include addressing the causes and consequences of racism in communities across Alberta; increasing access to services, information and advice concerning racism; increasing opportunities for people to learn, discuss and address the impacts of racism in their community; and encouraging participation of individuals, businesses, institutions and governments to collaboratively support anti-racism in their community.
Racism has held back the progress of many, many communities over the years – and that unfortunately includes some places in rural Alberta.
Efforts to reduce racism in Alberta are, without doubt, in the best interest of the community at large. As such, this new initiative is money well spent.
- Singleton is the Mountain View Gazette editor.
