SOUND OFF: Using data to tackle systemic racism

That is why our government will be introducing anti-racism data legislation next spring. This legislation will support us to collect better information about where systemic racism is taking place and how people are impacted.

There are many ways this new data will be useful. For example, it could potentially let us compare the experiences and health outcomes of Indigenous and racialized people using the healthcare system with the experiences of non-racialized and non-Indigenous people – and identify where gaps exist. From there, we can improve access and deliver more culturally safe and appropriate health-care treatment. With this data, we will also be able to modernize policies and services in areas like policing and education.

This will be a major step towards tackling racism and discrimination in this province. But to make sure that we are moving forward in a positive direction and not traumatizing individuals or exacerbating existing systemic issues, we need to work closely with the people who are most affected by systemic racism.

That’s why we are launching a public consultation to help us shape the anti-racism data legislation.

I know that racialized and Indigenous people have had many different experiences when interacting with government – we want to hear about those real-life experiences so we know what types of data should be collected and how it should be collected. This will help us to ensure that the anti-racism data legislation reflects the voices and experiences of Indigenous and racialized communities.

I encourage every British Columbian to visit engage.gov.bc.ca/antiracism/data and share their experiences, concerns and thoughts. Everything shared will be anonymous and confidential.

The information and the survey are available in 14 languages so people can answer in the language in which they are most comfortable.

We know that racialized and Indigenous communities are tired of being scapegoated and attacked for their race, skin colour or faith. As British Columbians, it’s time for us to step up.

On an individual level, we all need to reflect on our own biases and commit to doing the work needed to be antiracist. At a systemic level, we must do the same for our government and public institutions.

By working together, we can build a better future for ourselves and our children.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.

by Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives Rachna Singh

SOUND OFF: Using data to tackle systemic racism

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