Multiculturalism Week in B.C. is Nov. 13-19, 2016, a time to celebrate British Columbia’s rich, cultural mosaic. The Comox Valley Community Justice Centre is one of five multicultural champions profiled this week.

The Comox Valley Community Justice Centre (CJC) is tucked away in an unassuming building located on a quiet street in Courtenay. While it has a reputation as a cutting edge restorative justice leader, what many people might not realize is this tiny office is also home to some of British Columbia’s most forward thinking and ambitious multicultural champions.

“Restorative justice is one of our lines of work – the other is aimed at advancing a deeper understanding of the multicultural experience and enhancing acceptance and affirmation of ‘otherness’ in our community,” explains CJC chief administrator, Bruce Curtis. “It’s work that we find extremely rewarding because it subscribes to the deep belief that we are simply stronger as a community if we are united as one.”

In 2014, CJC received a British Columbia Multicultural Award (then known as the Provincial Nesika Awards) for its extensive work in promoting diversity, multiculturalism and inter-cultural understanding. The award was proudly accepted by Bruce Curtis on behalf of his team of over 150 volunteers.

“The award really spoke to our reputation, to the quality of our work, and to the dedication of our volunteers,” says Curtis. “As a truly diverse group that spans the cultural, ethnic, linguistic and faith-based spectrums, being recognized as multicultural champions was such an honour for us all.”

Since 2007, CJC has successfully conducted over 30 community based events focused on challenging racism and hatred and encouraging diversity and cultural awareness. Projects have included a successful critical incident response protocol that has received provincial and national attention; production of a play called Torn Rainbow which explored the themes of racism, homophobia and bullying; and powerful speakers, including Izeldeen Abueliash, a Palestinian doctor and human rights activist who wrote the book “I Shall Not Hate”.

“I was so surprised when Dr. Abueliash agreed to travel to the Comox Valley and tell his story. However, I’ve realized that even small community organizations can make a deep impact simply by casting the net widely and dreaming big about who might be willing to share their experiences and their understandings,” says Curtis. “That’s why our events are so varied – we are constantly striving to attract both new and different audiences.”

Today, the Community Justice Centre continues its work to promote harmony in the Comox Valley. It also encourages other organizations throughout B.C. to become multicultural champions by fostering multiculturalism and diversity in their communities.

“It’s not just about dance, it’s not just about costume, it’s not just about food. It’s about actively promoting across the widest range of the community that we are better together than apart,” says Curtis.

The 2016 British Columbia Multicultural Awards to honour B.C.’s multicultural champions will be held Nov. 18, 2016, in Vancouver.

Learn More:

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

2016 B.C. Multiculturalism Week: https://news.gov.bc.ca/12795