Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

“On March 21, 1960, in Sharpeville, South Africa, police opened fire on peaceful anti-apartheid demonstrators who were protesting racist pass laws. At least 69 people were killed. Pass laws were apartheid-era internal passport systems designed to segregate and restrict the movement of Black South Africans and other racialized people.

“Around the world, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is marked every year on March 21 to commemorate this horrific event and to show solidarity with people experiencing racism and racial discrimination.

“In British Columbia, many people continue to be harmed by discrimination and acts of hatred. Our government remains committed to fighting this injustice and working with affected communities to address these issues. Our ongoing anti-racism work includes introducing legislation to preserve access to places of worship, a racist-incident helpline that provides support for people who experience or witness an act of hate, and standing up against hate in all its forms.

“Together with all British Columbians, we are building a safer and more inclusive province for everyone.”

Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for anti-racism initiatives, said:

“The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination serves as an important reminder that racism, be it overt or systemic, has no place in B.C.’s communities or institutions. Our government introduced the Anti-Racism Act and anti-racism data legislation, which will help identify where gaps and barriers exist, so we can provide better and more equitable services to communities.

“We will be building on that work later this year with the release of the anti-racism action plan. Developed with Indigenous and racialized partners, the plan will lay out measurable, specific steps for public bodies to take to remove systemic, racist barriers.

“We know there is more to do, and we remain committed to building a just, inclusive and safe province for everyone.”