Port Coquitlam, BC – June 17, 2020… Community members who want to help stop racism and discrimination are invited to apply for Port Coquitlam’s first ever Roundtable on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

Mayor Brad West announced today the creation of the city’s new anti-racism and anti-discrimination group, which will meet regularly to develop a community-driven process and forum for feedback, action and discussion on matters of multiculturalism, systemic racism and discrimination, diversity, equity and inclusion in Port Coquitlam.

“The events over the last while have been deeply troubling and sometimes difficult to comprehend, but they have brought the issue of racism and discrimination to the forefront,” said Mayor Brad West. “I have heard from many residents about their experiences with racism and discrimination. It’s not something I’ve had to go through myself, and frankly, these conversations have been both saddening and eye-opening.”

The roundtable will have 12 to 15 volunteer advisors from the community representing a broad range of groups such as, but not limited to diverse ethnic or cultural origins, Indigenous people, new immigrants, LGBTQ2S+, people with disabilities, diverse gender and ages and people living in poverty.

“Racism and discrimination have no place in Port Coquitlam and as a city we are committed to taking action,” said Mayor Brad West. “This roundtable will be a community driven process and we’ll work together in coming up with solutions. I encourage anyone with expertise or ideas on how we can make this a better and safer community to apply.”

Applications for the roundtable must be submitted online at www.portcoquitlam.ca/roundtable by noon July 6.

The roundtable will provide input to City Council and staff about enhancing access and inclusion for Port Coquitlam’s diverse community to fully participate in City services and civic life and provide advice on related matters. One of the first tasks will be working with the city to develop an anti-racism and discrimination policy. The group will also liaise with the Mayor’s Citizen Advisors Roundtable and Cultural Roundtable and share ideas and expertise on current and emerging issues.

“As our city changes and we become more aware of the impact of racism and discrimination, it is critically important that we listen, learn and take action to ensure we are meeting the needs of all of our citizens,” West said. “Together, we can ensure that Port Coquitlam truly embraces our diversity and is made stronger because of it.”

Advisors will sit for a one-year term with an option to continue.

The selection process will seek a well-rounded group of individuals who represent the community’s diversity and live or work in Port Coquitlam.

The selected advisors will be announced at the last Council meeting before the August break.

Resources and Supports

Anyone who has experienced or witnessed racism or discrimination is advised to contact VictimLinkBC a toll-free, confidential, multilingual telephone service available across B.C. and the Yukon 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1-800-563-0808 or sending an email to VictimLinkBC@bc211.ca.

Incidents of racism or hate can also be reported to the RCMP’s non-emergency line at 604-945-1550 or at www.hatecrimebc.ca.

-30-

MEDIA CONTACTS

Pardeep Purewal
Manager of Communications & Admin Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5335 Cel 604.218.0533
Email purewalp@portcoquitlam.ca