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Richmondites launch website to let people tell stories of racism, find resources

Website founders hope this site could serve as safe haven to allow everyone to share their experiences and find support.
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Two Richmondites launched a new website to encourage people to share their experiences of racism and find resources.

Two Richmondites launching a new website that encourages people to talk about their experiences of racism and find resources. 

The website, which went online last week, has already received several letters from people who shared their unpleasant experiences of racist encounters, said Richmondite Ivan Pak, who set up the website with his friends. 

"Many people told us they felt hesitant to report racist incidents to the police due to language barriers, and some of them are unaware of the need to take actions when someone else falls victim or witnesses of an incident of racism and hate," said Pak. 

"This website serves as a safe haven, allowing everyone to voice his concerns more comfortably."

To ensure people get professional advice, consultants from Access Pro Bono, an independent legal organization specialized in providing free legal advice to the public, will serve as volunteers to direct people to access appropriate resources or supporting network, explained Pak. 

He added that having a support system like this is extremely important for new immigrants since most are trying hard to adjust to Canadian culture. 

"They might feel a bit discouraging after experiencing racism. Having a support network like this could give them a sigh of relief.

Ally Wong, co-founder of the website, said this website is in Chinese, but they hope to develop an English version in the near future. 

"Racism isn't just limited to one single racial community; it can take place everywhere -- people from any walk of life and cultural backgrounds might be exposed to racial prejudice," said Wong. 

Earlier this year, more than 190 organizations received funds through the B.C. Multiculturalism Grants Program to increase capacity to address discrimination. 

Wong said they hadn't received any funding from the provincial government, but it's terrific to see the different parties, organizations taking a huge step forward to facilitate cross-cultural understanding. 

"We are all heading in the right direction," said Wong.