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<figure id="figure-gemxps17mbm84k9xzv" class=""><img id="gemxps17mbm84k9xzv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19E5MjL04k0pKT7h11T5aLbRjnnJb9fgVd7y3XAweDatQys7ewzAZiDLZijMPlHL.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19E5MjL04k0pKT7h11T5aLbRjnnJb9fgVd7y3XAweDatQys7ewzAZiDLZijMPlHL.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>High Ground 2025, the twentieth edition of the annual civic governance forum, gathered elected officials, policymakers, and community leaders from across Canada to engage in transformative discussions on public safety, climate action, political polarization, digital hostility, and community resilience. Held from March 7-8 at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel in Vancouver, the event brought together progressive mayors, councilors, regional directors, and school trustees to explore the theme Tipping Points: Navigating Turbulent Times—a deep dive into whether the current state of political, social, and environmental affairs is truly unraveling or if it simply feels that way.The Foundation for a Path Forward played a critical role in shaping the dialogue on digital hostility and political safety, with Co-Founder Tariq Tyab leading the workshop Cyber Hostility and Political Figures: A Crisis in Mental Health and Equity. This session examined the increasing threats of online hate and harassment against public figures, exploring strategies for fostering a more resilient and inclusive political landscape. Other key speakers in this session included Ankita Goyal, Research and Communications Coordinator at the Centre for Civic Governance, and a range of experts working on issues of equity and digital safety. The discussion underscored the urgent need for structural interventions to safeguard politicians and civic leaders from the growing toxicity of digital spaces.The forum opened with a territorial welcome delivered by Carleen Thomas, Acting Principal of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, and Hermender Singh Kailley, Secretary-Treasurer of the BC Federation of Labour. This was followed by an insightful fireside chat featuring Brittny Anderson, Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities, and George Anderson, Parliamentary Secretary for Transit, moderated by Jonathan Fowlie, Chief Member Impact and Experience Officer at Vancity.Workshops throughout the forum provided an opportunity for in-depth discussions on policy and community-led solutions. In From Eco-Anxiety to Action: How Local Leaders Can Implement Meaningful Climate Solutions, Abbey Piazza from Youth Climate Corps BC and Ian Picketts from the District of Squamish tackled ways municipalities can address environmental challenges with practical solutions. The toxic drug crisis was another major focus, with Amanda Erickson, Cindy Lise, Daniel Snyder, Leslie Payne, and Michelle Staples offering insights into Leveraging Community-Municipal Partnerships to Respond to the Toxic Drug Crisis.Day two featured discussions on equity and advocacy, including Coalition Building in the Energy Transition Era, with insights from Andrew Williamson, Janet Andrews, Jessica Mcilroy, and Rita Steele, and Being an Active Bystander: What To Do and When To Do It, led by Mary Trentadue, Nadine Nakagawa, and Trudi Goels. Another standout session, Housing as a Human Right, featured contributions from Amy Lubik, Bailey Waukey, Rowan Burdge, and Véronique Sioufi, who examined policy strategies to ensure secure housing for all.A key focus of the conference was the role of women and gender minorities in leadership, with a dedicated session featuring Mary Trentadue, Nadine Nakagawa, and Trudi Goels sharing their experiences and strategies for overcoming systemic barriers in politics. These conversations reinforced the need for intentional policy changes to support women and marginalized communities in leadership roles.The forum’s final plenary, Political Polarization, Division, and the Rise of Conspiracy in British Columbia, brought together Erin Blondeau from the Climate Emergency Unit, Evan Balgord from the Canadian Anti-Hate Network, and Kay Kearley from the BC Flying Squad Against Transphobia. Moderated by Susan Kim, Councillor for the City of Victoria, this session examined the rise of disinformation and radicalization in public discourse and governance, offering strategies for civic leaders to counteract these challenges.High Ground 2025 reaffirmed its role as a crucial space for civic leaders to collaborate, exchange ideas, and build a more resilient and forward-thinking society. The participation of the Foundation for a Path Forward highlighted its commitment to tackling digital hate, strengthening public safety, and fostering inclusive governance. As municipalities across Canada grapple with increasingly complex challenges, the conversations and partnerships forged at this forum will be instrumental in shaping future policies and community resilience strategies.

Foundation for a Path Forward Joins 2025 High Ground: Tipping Points

The Strong Cities Network convened its latest conference in Manchester on February 26-27, 2025, bringing together mayors, policymakers, law enforcement, and community leaders from across Europe and North America. The event, themed "Community Safety and Well-Being Amidst Consecutive Global Crises," examined the role of cities in addressing hate, violent extremism, and the social polarization exacerbated by global instability. The Foundation for a Path Forward was an active participant in the discussions, contributing to dialogues on building resilient communities and countering online and offline hate.<figure id="figure-iz70y1af6m87g45ha"><img id="iz70y1af6m87g45ha" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aFsJBh0fg6SFZ3bhvd9G6KoUVpBZYXrHC9eWr7jSgBAVscCRC12YGv4EbprR1ks.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aFsJBh0fg6SFZ3bhvd9G6KoUVpBZYXrHC9eWr7jSgBAVscCRC12YGv4EbprR1ks.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>The conference opened with a series of plenary sessions that set the stage for understanding contemporary threats facing cities, including rising hate crimes, digital extremism, and challenges stemming from migration and climate change. Local leaders from northern UK cities, smaller municipalities, and rural areas shared insights into their specific security concerns, underscoring the importance of local governance in mitigating tensions and fostering inclusion. The event also provided a unique platform for exploring global collaborations, particularly in supporting the rehabilitation of Ukrainian cities through strategic and technical assistance. Mayors and experts discussed trauma-informed approaches to help communities recover from conflict, emphasizing the role of local leadership in long-term stability.Throughout the two-day conference, keynote speakers from cities such as Liverpool, Manchester, and others highlighted best practices in community safety and resilience. Panel discussions and breakout sessions delved into strategies for combating Islamophobia, antisemitism, and other forms of hate, with an emphasis on building trust between local governments and vulnerable communities. A notable session explored how cities can leverage urban planning and design to prevent extremism, making public spaces more inclusive and fostering connections that deter radicalization.Digital resilience was another key theme, with discussions on how misinformation and online hate speech translate into real-world violence. Experts examined strategies for equipping communities with tools to counter harmful narratives, including digital literacy programs and early-warning mechanisms that help identify and respond to emerging threats. Representatives from municipalities and civil society organizations shared case studies on successful interventions that prevent digital hate from escalating into physical harm.Women’s leadership in local governance was also a focal point, with a dedicated session under the Strong Cities Women’s Leadership Caucus. Female officials and community leaders discussed the barriers they face in decision-making roles and the need for systemic change to ensure greater representation and influence in policy development. From Sri Lanka to the Maldives, women leaders shared examples of how they have successfully implemented gender-inclusive policies and addressed structural inequalities in governance.Youth engagement emerged as another critical issue, with city officials recognizing the role young people play in strengthening social cohesion. The discussions underscored the need for investment in youth mentorship programs, civic education, and employment initiatives to deter radicalization and foster community leadership among younger generations. Participants from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh shared innovative approaches, such as youth councils and interfaith sports programs, that have successfully bridged divides and promoted inclusivity.The second day of the conference featured a series of table-top exercises designed to equip city leaders with crisis response strategies. Scenarios focused on building public trust in prevention efforts and crafting effective communication strategies during moments of heightened tension. Attendees also examined Greater Manchester’s new Hate Crime Plan, which serves as a model for cities seeking to improve reporting mechanisms and community-led responses to hate incidents.The conference concluded with a site visit to the Manchester Peace Trail, reinforcing the importance of historical reflection and grassroots peacebuilding in the fight against hate. The discussions over the two days underscored the critical role cities play in preventing extremism, supporting marginalized communities, and fostering long-term resilience in the face of evolving global challenges. As Strong Cities celebrates its 10-year anniversary, this gathering in Manchester reaffirmed the commitment of local leaders and community organizations, including the Foundation for a Path Forward, to continue strengthening social cohesion and advancing innovative approaches to public safety worldwide.

Foundation Attends the Strong Cities Network Conference in Manchester, UK

<figure id="figure-s9tatpcb3m87htufl" class="selected"><img id="s9tatpcb3m87htufl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3nhQ3UY0hi9K2pouZIVAglIT1HCRvtXcrsxV7Tdj9rfBePLCYp65pw6JdryCX8EG.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3nhQ3UY0hi9K2pouZIVAglIT1HCRvtXcrsxV7Tdj9rfBePLCYp65pw6JdryCX8EG.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>The Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) 2025 brought together communities across Canada and the United States to raise awareness and funds for poverty, food insecurity, mental health, and housing challenges. In Surrey-Newton, this annual initiative was a powerful reminder of the impact grassroots organizations have in strengthening and supporting vulnerable populations.The Foundation for a Path Forward joined Moving Forward Family Services, along with partners SEVA, SACH, the South Asian Legal Clinic of BC, and Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen, as they led the charge for this meaningful cause. These organizations have long been committed to providing affordable counseling, legal aid, food support, and outreach programs to those in need, making a tangible difference in the lives of Surrey residents.Held on February 22, 2025, CNOY Newton saw participants gather at Newton Athletic Park before setting off on a 2.5-km walk, with an option to complete the route twice for a 5-km challenge. The walk, which followed a path along 128th Street, 80th Avenue, 132nd Street, and 76th Avenue, symbolized solidarity with those experiencing homelessness and financial hardship, raising both awareness and funds to support vital local services.For the Foundation for a Path Forward, participation in CNOY 2025 reinforced its dedication to tackling social inequities, fostering community resilience, and advocating for inclusive policies. By standing alongside local partners and committed residents, the event underscored the power of collective action in addressing urgent social issues. More than just a fundraiser, CNOY 2025 was a movement, shining a spotlight on the urgent need for sustainable solutions to poverty and homelessness while rallying support for organizations on the frontlines of this critical work.

Foundation Joins the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) 2025

<figure id="figure-2qobdwehrem87igwzf"><img id="2qobdwehrem87igwzf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12HqGdwC7HumyardCGT5YyJVVTRXtqDbnE8CKedPiQ09vMpbQMq3tORMvHDzZDVN.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12HqGdwC7HumyardCGT5YyJVVTRXtqDbnE8CKedPiQ09vMpbQMq3tORMvHDzZDVN.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The BC Muslim Association (BCMA), which includes Tariq Tyab who is the co-founder of the Foundation for a Path Forward, presented Strategic Recommendations for the Honourable Ministers and MLAs to Support the Muslim Community to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia on February 13, 2025. Held at 2218 Quadra St. in Victoria, the session gathered key government representatives, including Attorney General Niki Sharma, Parliamentary Secretary Amna Shah, MLAs Paul Choi and Jodie Wickens, and senior staffers, to discuss pressing issues affecting British Columbia’s Muslim population.<figure id="figure-ztk0wyfgim87ii9dd"><img id="ztk0wyfgim87ii9dd" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6OM7jfEJJEGilNTzAh9ggtQAG3NOKhXFrdU0uDJymOZQd6JBwMWzq8XQAazX3wyX.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6OM7jfEJJEGilNTzAh9ggtQAG3NOKhXFrdU0uDJymOZQd6JBwMWzq8XQAazX3wyX.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Tariq Tyab, co-founder of the Foundation for a Path Forward and a member of the BCMA, played a key role in the presentation, contributing insights into policy recommendations and community needs. The presentation covered several critical topics, including community center and infrastructure support, grants for community programs, government collaboration and policy advocacy, combatting Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism, affordable housing and financial inclusion, and education and cultural preservation. These themes underscored the urgent need for proactive measures to support Muslim communities in British Columbia through legislative action and strategic partnerships.The presentation emphasized the importance of government funding for community centers that serve as vital hubs for cultural preservation, social services, and youth programs. Additionally, the discussion highlighted the need for strengthened policy efforts to combat Islamophobia, particularly in response to the rise in hate crimes and discrimination faced by Muslim Canadians.At the conclusion of the session, the Legislative Assembly awarded the BCMA a certificate of appreciation in recognition of its dedication to strengthening local connections, fostering community growth, and advocating for the well-being of British Columbia’s Muslim population. This acknowledgment reaffirmed the significance of continued dialogue and collaboration between government officials and Muslim organizations to ensure inclusive policies and equitable opportunities for all communities.

Foundation Contributes to BCMA Strategic Planning Presentation to Legislative Assembly

Politician speaking publicly from the lectern

<figure id="figure-vafwgzxtmm87ikxjl"><img id="vafwgzxtmm87ikxjl" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1400488393/photo/politician-speaking-publicly-from-the-lectern.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=FCUTKuUhnlZUsRSWlgHSaBQ7ocSx-eZCx6ji0jxEapU=" alt="Politician speaking publicly from the lectern" title="Politician speaking publicly from the lectern" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1400488393/photo/politician-speaking-publicly-from-the-lectern.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=FCUTKuUhnlZUsRSWlgHSaBQ7ocSx-eZCx6ji0jxEapU=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The Foundation for a Path Forward recently delivered a seminar on online hate in Canada as part of a professional development session for educators at Okanagan Skaha School District 67 in Penticton, BC. Organized by South Okanagan Immigrant &amp; Community Services (SOICS), the session took place virtually on February 14 and provided critical insights into the growing challenges of online hate and its impact on children and youth.The session welcomed over 20 registered participants, with invitations extended beyond the school district to include community members. Educators engaged in discussions about the spread of online hate, the ways in which harmful narratives affect young people, and the role of digital spaces in shaping public discourse. The Foundation for a Path Forward provided practical strategies for navigating online hate, equipping attendees with tools to foster safer, more inclusive environments both in classrooms and online.The seminar emphasized proactive measures that educators can take to protect students, from promoting digital literacy and critical thinking to recognizing and addressing the psychological toll of online harassment. Attendees explored the intersection of social media, misinformation, and extremism, gaining a deeper understanding of how to support students who may encounter hate-driven content online.This event was a testament to the ongoing commitment of SOICS and the Foundation for a Path Forward in addressing pressing social challenges through education and community engagement. As online hate continues to evolve, sessions like these ensure that educators remain equipped to guide the next generation in navigating the digital world with resilience and awareness.

SOICS Presents with Foundation for a Path Forward for Pro-D Session at School District 67

<figure id="figure-toynbb1c1m723q7ec" class=""><img id="toynbb1c1m723q7ec" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/cFwBWenF3mHRIdbGhBHmnfUXrSbTqxFPW9wcvra7zvohonQ4x5ehkT6VRGPruMa8.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 10%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="10%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/cFwBWenF3mHRIdbGhBHmnfUXrSbTqxFPW9wcvra7zvohonQ4x5ehkT6VRGPruMa8.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 10%;"></figure>The Foundation for a Path Forward is organizing "Breaking Bread, Building Bonds 2: Living &amp; Acting on Truth and Reconciliation," a significant multicultural and multifaith event scheduled for Monday, March 24, 2025, at FraserView Banquet Hall in Vancouver. Building upon the success of the inaugural gathering, which united over 200 leaders from more than 20 cultural, faith-based, and Indigenous communities, this year's event aims to deepen understanding and collaboration among diverse groups, with an anticipated attendance of nearly 500 participants.The evening will feature keynote speeches and panel discussions focusing on actionable steps to advance Truth and Reconciliation. Invited guest speakers include The Hon. David Eby, Premier of British Columbia; The Hon. Niki Sharma, Deputy Premier and Attorney General; The Hon. Terry Yung, Minister of Community Safety and Integrated Services; and Norm Leech, Executive Director of Our Grandmother Earth. Cultural performances and Indigenous storytelling will honor traditions and amplify voices guiding attendees toward healing. The event also offers opportunities for networking and community building, culminating in a shared meal featuring culturally diverse foods, including Iftar, to bridge divides and foster unity.In collaboration with Our Grandmother Earth, led by Norm Leech, and partners such as the Strong Cities Network, the Association of Neighbourhood Houses, and sponsor Brian Jessel BMW, the Foundation underscores its commitment to honoring shared histories and building a unified future. This gathering is a collective pledge to act upon the principles of Truth and Reconciliation, creating enduring bonds of trust among Vancouver's diverse communities.<figure id="figure-raporjtpjxm723r99n"><img id="raporjtpjxm723r99n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36f3nPnJukrbOE4UbFofRK8OF7RFBMs1xCE0xW1ahXIrEhpARJD42Hy6wd3WusMC.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36f3nPnJukrbOE4UbFofRK8OF7RFBMs1xCE0xW1ahXIrEhpARJD42Hy6wd3WusMC.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 30%;"></figure>The event is scheduled from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, with dinner served at 7:30 PM. Attendance is by invitation only, and interested parties are required to RSVP via Eventbrite. The Foundation for a Path Forward looks forward to fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration during this significant occasion.

Foundation for a Path Forward

Foundation News

Foundation for a Path Forward Joins 2025 High Ground: Tip...

Foundation Attends the Strong Cities Network Conference i...

Foundation Joins the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) 2025

Foundation Contributes to BCMA Strategic Planning Present...

SOICS Presents with Foundation for a Path Forward for Pro...

(Upcoming) Breaking Bread | Building Bonds 2: Truth and R...