The most ethnically diverse province in Canada, B.C. is celebrating Multiculturalism Week by recognizing the province’s multicultural champions in the British Columbia Multicultural Awards event on Nov. 20, 2015, in Vancouver.

The British Columbia Multicultural Awards (previously known as the Provincial Nesika Awards) were first held in 2008. The name was changed this year to better reflect the purpose of the awards and to promote multiculturalism. The awards recognize individuals, organizations and businesses whose exceptional work helps bring our diverse cultures together. Since 2008, nearly 500 nominees have been honoured for their multicultural contributions to British Columbia.

Past recipients include people like Ed Eduljee of West Vancouver, former director of Multiculturalism BC (1991-97). Edjulee devoted a lifetime to promoting multiculturalism at all levels – organizations, institutions, community groups or government – with a multi-faceted approach to furthering cross-cultural understanding.

Organizations such as CIBC have also been recognized. CIBC was one of the first corporations in Canada to dedicate an entire month to the celebration of diversity. CIBC supports eight employee-led Affinity Networks that link more than 3,000 employees from a variety of backgrounds.

The multicultural awards event is organized by the Government of British Columbia with advice and support from the Province’s Multicultural Advisory Council (MAC). MAC members have promoted cross-cultural understanding and respect throughout the province since 1988.

British Columbia’s Multiculturalism Act was created in 1993 to recognize the diversity of British Columbians; encourage respect for our multicultural heritage; promote racial harmony; and foster a society without barriers to inclusion.

The Government of B.C. has designated the third week in November as Multiculturalism Week to celebrate multiculturalism and promote diversity throughout the province and this year it’s proclaimed Nov. 15-21, 2015.

Quotes:

Teresa Wat, Minister of International Trade and Minister Responsible for Asia Pacific Strategy and Multiculturalism –

“These awards bring into focus multiculturalism at work as British Columbians rally against racism and encourage respect and inclusiveness within and between different cultures. Multiculturalism Week is a reminder of the diversity that exists in our province, and an opportunity to find out how you can participate in activities that celebrate and promote diversity.”

Multicultural Advisory Council vice-chair Manpreet Dhillon –

“Multiculturalism Week is a reminder to us all of the need to be vigilant in our goal to embrace diversity and promote multiculturalism. As a member of the Multicultural Advisory Council, I work closely with community members throughout B.C. and regularly witness the courage, empathy and enthusiasm that British Columbians of all cultural groups bring to the table.”

Quick Facts:

• B.C. welcomes nearly 40,000 new immigrants every year.
• Almost 30% of British Columbians have emigrated from another country in their lifetime and one-quarter of the people in the province are self-identified visible minorities.
• In 2015, the B.C. government will provide nearly $1.7 million to engage cultural groups, to fight racism and discrimination and to promote multiculturalism.
• Under B.C.’s 1993 Multiculturalism Act, all ministries and Crown corporations are required to submit an annual report on multiculturalism to reflect their commitment to multiculturalism. These are included in the Annual Provincial Report on Multiculturalism.
• With one million job openings expected by 2020 in B.C., immigrants will play a vital role in the economic well-being of the province.

Learn More:

British Columbia Multicultural Awards: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/celebrating-british-columbia/honours-and-awards/bc-multicultural-awards

Embrace BC – Province of B.C. multiculturalism site: www.embracebc.ca

B.C. Multicultural Advisory Council: http://tinyurl.com/n4nvauv

Proclamation for Multiculturalism Week: http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/oic/OIC_CUR/MultiCulturWk2015