Canadians CARE
With over 2,792 participants directly engaged through in-person events and an additional 3,000 participating online, the program's reach is extensive. This direct engagement, coupled with broader community outreach and educational initiatives, has touched an estimated 30,000 lives.
Addressing the root causes of Inter-communal (Lateral) Prejudice and Harm
The Canadian's CARE (Cultivating Active Resilient Engagements) program was created to address the urgent need for improved relations among diverse communities in Canada, with a particular focus on lateral (minority to minority) communities. This need has been heightened by the far-reaching impacts of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, South Asia, and around the world.
These global crises has fueled a disturbing rise in South Asian Hate, Islamophobia and antisemitism within Canada, underscoring the critical importance of initiatives like CARE that foster understanding and actively combat discrimination through community engagement and education.
Funding and support from the Department of Canadian Heritage.
The Canadian's C.A.R.E. program has achieved significant success in fostering understanding and mitigating conflict within diverse communities across British Columbia. Through a comprehensive approach that combines education,dialogue, and community-building, the program has made a measurable impact on both individuals and the broader social fabric.
Notably, C.A.R.E.'s impact extends beyond mere participation numbers. The program has been instrumental in:
- Fostering Dialogue and Healing: By creating safe spaces for dialogue and addressing sensitive topics like trauma,Islamophobia, and antisemitism, C.A.R.E. has facilitated meaningful conversations and fostered a greater understanding between Muslim and Jewish communities. Events like the interfaith healing session with Dr. Gabor Maté and Vancouver's first Interfaith Prayer for Peace have been particularly impactful, offering opportunities for shared experiences and collective healing.
- Empowering Leaders: C.A.R.E.'s leadership training programs have equipped over 50 community leaders with crucial skills in conflict resolution and anger management. This investment in capacity building has empowered leaders to effectively address tensions within their communities, promoting peaceful resolutions and building stronger social cohesion.
- Informing Public Policy: C.A.R.E. has actively engaged with policymakers and institutions, leveraging its influence to promote anti-prejiduce initiatives and shape public discourse.
Championing Change for a Brighter Future Foundation for a Path Forward
The program's success is even more remarkable given the challenging context in which it operates. The escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict after October 7th, 2024, has exacerbated existing tensions and created new challenges for inter-community relations. However, C.A.R.E.'s proactive approach, initiated before the crisis, has proven invaluable in mitigating these heightened tensions.
By establishing a foundation of trust, understanding, and communication between communities, C.A.R.E. has created a resilient framework that allows for constructive dialogue and collaboration even in the face of adversity. The program's emphasis on education and dialogue has empowered individuals to challenge stereotypes, build empathy, and actively work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
C.A.R.E. stands as a testament to the transformative power of community engagement and education in addressing racism and promoting intercultural understanding. Through its multifaceted approach, the program has not only made a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of Canadians but also provided a model for other communities seeking to build bridges of understanding and create a more harmonious society.
Previous Events
Fostering Dialogue and Healing
Empowering Leaders
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Influencing Public Policy