Alberta is making efforts to fight racism and build inclusive communities through Budget 2023.
The province is investing $9.5 million into grant programs to combat racism and promote multiculturalism.
This includes $8 million over three years for the ethnocultural grant program that will promote cross-cultural understanding and multiculturalism. In addition, Alberta’s government will provide $1.5 million over three years to support the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grant Program (MARG).
“It is vital that we continue to support efforts that address racism and help with cross-cultural understanding. Budget 2023 will provide funding to support multicultural and anti-racism initiatives. Alberta’s government will continue to find new ways to make safer communities for everyone,” said Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Trade, Immigration and Multiculturalism in a release.
Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grants are awarded to non-profit organizations for anti-racism initiatives and projects that foster inclusion and respect. Grants can go towards supporting cultural events, festivals, workshops and training.
Indigenous, Inuit and Métis, multicultural and faith-based groups are eligible to receive up to $30,000. Any non-profit, including those in Red Deer-North, looking to teach more about their culture is encouraged to apply.
The new ethnocultural grants will provide funding to a variety of multicultural groups. These grants will support intercultural and interfaith connections, helping ethnocultural groups end racism and providing Albertans with opportunities to participate and celebrate Indigenous culture.
MARG and the new ethnocultural grant program complement existing government initiatives, including Alberta’s Anti-Racism Action Plan.
Bhupinder Singh Chattha, secretary of the Sikh Society of Calgary says they are extremely grateful for the approval of their grant application, which will help them showcase their own culture in the summer.
“This grant will enable us to plan an event during the summers at Sikh Society Calgary that will showcase the Sikh culture, its traditions, books, arts and military museum exhibits to reflect on Sikhism,” he said. “
This event is needed so that all Albertans have a better understanding of people from other cultures and their struggles to resist anti-racism. The event will be free for all and lots of free food stalls will be there for everyone to enjoy the day at Sikh Society Calgary grounds.”
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.