B.C. tables data collection law to help dismantle systemic racism, says premier

The provincial government says the Anti-Racism Data Act introduced today will help identify gaps in programs and services for Indigenous and Black people as well as others who face discrimination in BC.

Premier John Horgan says the legislation is a step toward dismantling systemic racism and colonialism that have unfairly held people back when it comes to issues like education, employment and housing.

He says in a statement that data collected for anti-racism purposes will shine a light on barriers that exist so the province can improve services and make life better for everyone.

The government says more than 90 per cent of racialized people who took part in a survey said that collecting data about ethnicity, gender identity and faith could drive change in B-C and build trust with government.