Racism in all its forms is not unique to the US. Here are some organizations in British Columbia and Canada fighting for equality that we think are worth you checking out.

In a June 10 social media post Sean Rodman, who makes up one of our favourite Kootenay bands Moontricks along with Nathan Gurley, posted a new song about the anti-racism movement that’s swelled recently. He wrote, “Living out in the countryside on a farm, it’s easy to feel insulated from current events. But despite being surrounded by serenity, I swear you can feel the tension in the air from this massive storm that’s brewing and know that we’re all in this together to make change. This blues song came from sitting with that stirring feeling and the emotions, watching everything unfold.”

He goes on to write, “Blues music came straight from the African American heart and soul and their long dark history, and that sound has captivated me since I was a boy, looking to inspiration from early legends like Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, and Howling Wolf. So with my deepest respects and dedication for change, here’s a blues song vocalizing some hope. There’s lots of listening, learning, and work to be done in ending racism.”

https://www.facebook.com/Moontricks/videos/2795859643968598/UzpfSTExNjM5MTM0MTcwODYyMzozNjA0OTA0ODAyODU3MjQy/

Here at the Mountain Culture Group, we have always been committed to stories and art that call for change. We thank Sean and Moontricks for embodying the Kootenay spirit of creativity and inclusivity, and for making beautiful our collective want to help the world be a better place.

If you also want to help make the world a better place, we humbly suggest you do a few things:

  • Educate yourself on the issues. This is not just an American problem.
  • Support racial justice
  • Stand up and have difficult conversations
  • Demand action from your elected officials
  • Get to know the following organizations and if you’re able, donate to them, as they’re leading the charge in Canada and, specifically the Western provinces, to help end systemic racism.

1. Black Lives Matter Vancouver – This is the Western Canadian chapter of the international organization that’s “working against police brutality and anti-blackness and uplifting black voices.”

2. Circles for Reconciliation – This group aims to foster trusting, meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people through small gatherings, both online and in person.

3. Indigenous Awareness Canada – Indigenous Awareness Canada wants to help Canadians learn about the country’s Indigenous people through online Indigenous awareness training and in-person workshops.

4. Black Youth Helpline – Black Youth Helpline promotes access to innovative, professional, culturally appropriate support for youth, families, and schools.

5. Across Boundaries – This organization offers holistic and equitable mental health and addiction services through anti-racism, anti-Black racism, and anti-oppression frameworks. The organization also speaks to the impacts of racism and discrimination on mental health and well-being.