Why legislation is needed

Government is a colonial institution and many of its policies and programs were developed at a time when the legislature did not represent the cultural diversity of the province. As a result, government’s foundation was built on racist and discriminatory beliefs, policies, attitudes and behaviours. Much of this has gone unchanged and unaddressed.

This is unacceptable. The Province plays a critical role in making sure our systems and institutions are safe and inclusive for everyone.

This legislation is part of how the Province is working with communities to address racism and hate.

More information about anti-racism legislation

In June 2022, the Anti-Racism Data Act became law. The Act supports government to identify systemic racism through the collection of race-based data. It helps identify barriers to government programs and services. Once these barriers are identified and backed by data, they can be addressed so more people can equally benefit from government supports.

The broader anti-racism legislation being introduced in 2024 builds on the Anti-Racism Data Act by ensuring that government takes action to dismantle systemic racism and advance racial equity in British Columbia.

The legislation will:

1. Create a government-wide anti-racism strategy to implement the legislation.
2. Address Indigenous specific racism
3. Using data acquired from the Anti-Racism Data Act, the Province will take action to dismantle systemic racism and advance racial equity in B.C.
4. Measure and report on our progress
5. Hold ourselves accountable to the priorities of Indigenous People and other racialized communities
6. Invest in healing Indigenous and other racialized communities harmed by racism
7. Promote, encourage and invest in compliance approaches