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8 days left for Richmond residents to air their views on systemic racism

Survey deadline was extended to October 15 for the B.C. government initiative
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MLA Henry Yao and cultural leaders were among those launching a survey hoping to tackle systemic racism in B.C. in June. Archive photo

As residents of one of the most diverse cities in Canada, with more than 80 per cent of the population being a visible minority, Richmondites have only till Oct. 15 to fill out the BC Demographic Survey.

The survey, launched in June by the B.C. government, aims to identify systemic racism that exists in government programs and services, as well as gaps and barriers some people face when accessing government supports.

The province had only received about 86,000 responses by August - less than 10 per cent of the number of households, so it extended the deadline from Sept. 30 to Oc. 15.

“It’s unfortunate that racism is embedded in our society,” said Richmond MLA Henry Yao when he announced the survey in June.

“We are working through by first collecting data, understanding the challenges and how we can improve…and as government how we can address our gaps and barriers in our services to ensure all British Columbians are welcomed, supported appropriately in an equitable manner.”

Richmond residents can fill out the BC Demographic Survey by visiting the website.

Those needing assistance to fill out the survey can call toll-free at 833-376-2452 Monday to Friday 9a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. PST (excluding holidays).