Group receives funding to combat racism

A Powell River non-profit group has received a grant from the provincial government to further its work to stamp out racism.

Powell River Diversity Initiative (PRDI) will receive $10,000 to continue to support its local

anti-racism initiatives.

“PRDI is pleased to receive this funding,” said coordinator Megan Dulcie Dill.

According to Dulcie Dill, PRDI’s mandate is to support programs, events, education and projects that increase the awareness of diversity in the community.

“We work with various community partners on creating a network of support for cross-cultural understanding,” she said.

Some of PRDI’s upcoming local projects are a Tla’amin/Powell River Education Project, LGBTQ PRIDE Powell River, Groundswell 2016 (Community Conference and Powell River Social Strategy Plan) and Celebration of Cultural Diversity 2016.

The provincial funding will help sustain PRDI and enable the activities of the society, said Dulcie Dill.

“The vision is that the region is a welcoming, accepting, respectful and safe community for all,” she added.

PRDI is a registered, non-profit charitable organization governed by a board of directors and guided by a steering committee whose members represent a cross-section of the community.

Teresa Wat, minister of International Trade and Responsible for Asia Pacific Strategy and Multiculturalism, announced $240,000 of grants to 24 communities that participate in BC Organizing Against Racism and Hate.

“Cultural diversity is vital to a strong and vibrant social and economic future for BC and acts of racism threaten that future,” stated Wat in a media release. “Organizations like these funding recipients know the most effective ways to combat racism in their communities and I thank them for bringing the message of inclusivity to life throughout BC.”