Premier to Join Inaugural BC Community Alliance Gala Honoring Anti-Racism Champions and Celebrating Legislative Impact
Vancouver, BC – November 12, 2024 – The BC Community Alliance (BCCA) is proud to announce its first-ever Community Gala and Award Ceremony, an inspiring celebration of unity, resilience, and progress in the fight against systemic racism. The gala will take place on November 16, 2024, at 455 Granville Street, bringing together community leaders, advocates, and supporters from across British Columbia.
This special evening is an opportunity to honour the achievements of BCCA and the community leaders who are actively challenging racism in educational settings. In attendance will be special guests, including Premier of British Columbia, who offered his endorsement in a message for the event.
“As Premier of British Columbia, I would like to extend my warmest greetings to everyone attending the inaugural community Gala hosted by the BC Community Alliance (BCCA). This Gala is an inspiring celebration of the BCCA’s impressive achievements and impact. It is also a wonderful opportunity to honour community leaders who are courageously challenging racism in educational settings and building safe and supportive learning environments for all students,” he stated.
Highlighting the evening’s program will be awards recognizing leaders and supporters who have shown remarkable dedication to combating anti-Black racism. Awards include the Most Active Volunteer Award, Community Partnership Award, and the prestigious Community Trailblazer Award.
The gala will also shine a spotlight on BCCA’s collaborations with the provincial government, particularly in the formation of two historic pieces of legislation, the Anti-Racism Data Act and the Anti-Racism Act. “Our government is proud to have collaborated with and learned from the BCCA during the creation of these landmark acts, which enable us to gather and use data responsibly to combat systemic racism,” the Premier continued.
Event Highlights Include:
- Powerful Performances: Live presentations by Lord Nation, Marlo Browne, and the African Friendship Society.
- Youth Leadership: Special presentations by youth leaders from the Supports for Student Learning Program, including Solange Umugwaneza and our Youth Host Marie Alemi
- Exclusive Networking Opportunities: A chance to connect with key stakeholders, advocates, and changemakers committed to advancing equity in BC.
“We are thrilled to celebrate our community’s resilience and dedication at this inaugural gala,” said Brian Seremba, Co-Founder of BCCA. “Together with the government’s support, we have made incredible strides toward a more equitable future for Black families in British Columbia, and tonight’s gala reflects our shared commitment to a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.”
About the BC Community Alliance
Founded in 2019, the BC Community Alliance (BCCA) is a Black-led, community-based organization dedicated to combating structural inequities in education, particularly anti-Black racism, through training, advocacy, and policy change. BCCA’s key initiatives include the Safe School Hub, Family Services Program, and Support for Student Learning Program. Through these programs, BCCA aims to empower youth, create safe learning environments, and advance systemic change for a more inclusive BC.
For more information or to schedule interviews with BCCA representatives, please contact us at info@bcommunityalliance.com.
End of Release
The BC Community Alliance Gala is made possible with support from Vancity, FortisBC, the NBA Foundation, RBC, and other valued sponsors.
Note to Editors: High-resolution photos and additional press materials are available here.