A new toll-free ‘Racist Incident Helpline’ for those who witness or experience an incident of racism has been created in order to help people receive the support they need.
The Province says this helpline will be trauma-informed, culturally appropriate and available in 240 languages.
This initiative is in partnership with United Way BC 211 and was conceptualized to help people navigate incidents of discrimination due to the colour of their skin, culture, ethnicity or place of origin.
According to the BC government, those who call in will be able to access support and guidance, including referrals to local supports, counselling or help with reporting the incident to local police.
“Hate incidents are deeply traumatic to victims,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General.
“This helpline opens up new avenues to access supports that matches peoples’ unique needs, whether that means help pursuing legal outcomes or feeling less alone by having someone to talk to.”
When someone calls in, they will be asked to describe the incident, the general location in which it took place and they will be given the choice of whether or not they would like to disclose their demographic information.
The Province says that data collected from this service will aid them in understanding where and how racist incidents are taking place within BC.
From there, they may be able to set up targeted endeavours and services to help those who have been victimized and educate those who are perpetrators.
“As someone who has faced the pain of racism, the launch of the Racist Incident Helpline feels deeply personal and profoundly significant,” said R.M., an individual with lived experience who prefers to remain anonymous.
“This helpline will not only offer a safe space for victims to share their stories and receive support, but it will also serve as a vital bridge between where we are now and a more understanding, inclusive and united society.”
The Province says that to set this up as best as they could, they got the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner, law enforcement, municipalities and partner organizations of the Resilience BC Anti-Racism Network to provide input and guidance.
They also consulted with The First Nations Leadership Council, Métis Nation BC and the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres.
For organizations that can help those who are experiencing racism wishing to be a part of the project’s referrals database, they can apply through United Way BC.
The United Way BC 211 Racist Incident Helpline is available by dialling (toll-free) 1 833 457-5463 (1-833-HLP-LINE).
However, it is only available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.
This helpline is not meant to replace emergency services. People in need of immediate assistance should call 911.
