In 1995, School District 68 (Nanaimo-Ladysmith) developed a policy to address the diverse backgrounds of the district’s students, staff and community members.

The policy states: “In order to assure an education which will broaden and enrich life experiences of all those served by the school district, the Board will work to improve understanding among cultures, promote respect for diversity and combat racism and discrimination. The Board will be sensitive to and ensure equal right to individuals of different ethnic backgrounds and resist racial bias in any form.”

The Multicultural and Race Relations Committee – an advisory committee to the Board – was established to work closely with the Superintendent of Schools to:
- promote sensitivity to multicultural, ethnic, and race relations issues within the district and coordinate anti-racism initiatives;
- hear community input regarding cross-cultural issues;
- review and evaluate the effectiveness of the policy, including reviewing the results of surveys done in the district;
- advise the Board;
- and provide the Board with an annual report.

The Committee meets on the last Thursday of the month during the school year. All stakeholders groups, parents, students and members of the community are represented on the committee.

To find out more about this committee, please contact the District Communications Director, communications@sd68.bc.ca.