Racism is the belief that one group of people, identified by physical characteristics of shared ancestry (such as skin colour), is superior to another group of people that look different from themselves. Racism occurs when individuals or groups are disadvantaged or mistreated based on their perceived race and/or ethnicity either through individualistic or systemic racism.
There is no place for racism, discrimination or intolerance in our schools, communities or classrooms, but we know it continues to exist. B.C. students, families, and staff face racism every day. Our schools need to support an understanding of culture, race, and ancestry to create safe and inclusive learning environments. It is difficult but important to dismantle the effects of Canada’s colonial history, and it is critical that people with lived experience guide this work.
Anti-racism is defined as the work of actively opposing racism by advocating for changes in political, economic, and social life. Anti-racism tends to be an individualized approach, and set up in opposition to individual racist behaviours and impacts. (Race Forward, Race Reporting Guide, 2015)
Our Work
We recognize that racism exists in our schools and community and we are working hard to move our system to one of racial equity. Click on the image to learn more about this important work.
Resources
Learning to Be an Anti-Racist: An Introductory Course - This course is available for all district and school employees to learn more about racism within the BC Education System and how to create anti-racism learning environments.
Glossary of Terms (Racial Equity Tools Glossary, MP Associates, Center or Assessment and Policy Development, and World Trust Educational Services, July 2022)