Let’s join ‘together against hate’ this International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
With the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination approaching quickly this March 21, let’s take this opportunity to reflect quietly and listen loudly to each other and our experiences with hate and racism in British Columbia.
Through DIVERSEcity’s Together Against Hate campaign, launched in January 2025 in response to rising incidents of racism across the province thanks to funding from United Way British Columbia, DIVERSEcity has been raising its voice against racism and hatred through information sharing, dialogue, collaboration and meaningful events.
In 2026, our Together Against Hate campaign returned with a Cultural Expression Night in January and a field trip to Kwantlen First Nation in February, along with ongoing work in creating a meaningful community of practice with local leaders.
Together Against Hate Cultural Expression Night
At DIVERSEcity, one of our strategic priorities is to strengthen community connection, and central to that is creating spaces for meaningful dialogue and expression, such as the Cultural Expression Night, held on January 15, 2026, at Surrey City Hall.
“Culture and community are carried through music, art, food and representation — all powerful expressions of who we are and how we belong,” said Sumaiyyah Adam, the Together Against Hate project manager. “Tonight is about showcasing culture in ways that resonate, while also learning about one another and the beauty within each other’s cultures.
“At the same time, we acknowledge that systems, mindsets and conditions exist that foster division and unrest and allow racism and hate to thrive. The work we are doing today is part of our ongoing commitment to change that dynamic, ensuring that everyone in our community feels valued and has access to resources that strengthen their capacity to engage or seek support.”
Performers included spoken word poetry by Elliott Slinn, interactive performance with BollyFusion dancers, Alma Raiz Colombian Dance Performance and VBand. See a video recap here.
Learning with Kwantlen First Nation
Then in February, the Together Against Hate team planned an experiential field trip to the Kwantlen First Nation Cultural Centre for community members to learn about local Indigenous history and culture.
Many participants shared that they left feeling more connected to the land, community and Kwantlen First Nation, reminding us of the value of in-person learning.
“We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who joined us at the Kwantlen Cultural Centre. Your presence, openness and willingness to engage brought this work to life,” says Sumaiyyah. “It brought us great joy to hear Elder Kevin Kelly’s reflections, sharing how much he appreciated being in a space with individuals who were genuinely respectful and committed to widening the circle of learning and solidarity.”
Coming next: Community Forum Part 2
Next up is the Together Against Hate Community Forum (Part 2) held on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, March 21, 2026, 12–4 pm at the Civic Hotel in Surrey, BC. This forum will bring together community members across race, culture, faith and identity for inclusive, community-led dialogue that builds on the conversations and learnings from our first forum in March 2025.
Centered around the theme “Sharing the Table,” we will reflect on experiences, explore collaboration and discuss culturally responsive approaches to anti-racism through table talks, interactive facilitation, cultural sharing and more.
Registration for this free event is still open here.
Read more about our Together Against Hate campaign and related resources here.