To honour, promote and celebrate the diverse cultures that shape British Columbia, our government is launching a $750,000-Multiculturalism Grant program to support and help 150 or more communities and organizations raise awareness of multiculturalism.

Projects that raise awareness about British Columbia's rich multicultural identity, or strengthen the ability of cultural organizations to become more involved, could be awarded a maximum of $5,000. Non-profit societies and community-based organizations that reflect Aboriginal or ethno-cultural communities are all eligible to apply.

Through two intake periods, applications will be accepted until Aug. 31, 2012 and Feb. 15, 2013.

Minister of State for Multiculturalism John Yap -

"British Columbia is characterised by a rich variety of languages, traditions, and cultures that make up its diverse cultural mosaic. The Multiculturalism Grant program will help encourage and enable all cultures in B.C. to celebrate how our diversity makes our province a powerhouse - both economically and socially."

Multicultural Advisory Council vice-chair Mo Dhaliwal -

"The Multiculturalism Grant will be a great resource to help organizations promote cross-cultural understanding and respect - characteristics that enrich the lives of all British Columbians."

Vancouver Multicultural Day Committee Naveed Waraich -

"As we celebrate Canadian Multicultural Day, we're excited to hear about this funding opportunity. This funding will help the groups that enrich and enliven our communities through their work on diversity."

Canadian Museum of Immigration vice-chair Tung Chan -

"This is wonderful news for all the multicultural groups in the province. As a long-time community advocate on multiculturalism, this funding provides another tool for multicultural groups to promote and celebrate our diversity."

Quick Facts:

• The Multiculturalism Grant program complements EmbraceBC's funding opportunities for community-based anti-racism and multiculturalism projects.

• EmbraceBC's six program elements are: Arts Engagement, Community Dialogues, Inclusive Leadership, Interfaith Bridging, Organizing Against Racism and Hate, and Public Education.

Learn More:

Detailed information and the B.C. Multiculturalism Grant Application Form are available at: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/gaming/grants/multiculturalism.htm or

http://www.embracebc.ca/embracebc/funding/

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation
250 208-3254