First Nations communities will receive support for emergency responses through provincial funding.
The BC Government is investing $1 million to 20 projects that focus on Indigenous cultural safety and cultural humility training. The aim is to make emergency management and supports more inclusive to Indigenous peoples.
Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Kelly Greene says emergencies are stressful for everyone impacted by them.
“Ensuring access to culturally sensitive supports is essential to people’s safety and well-being,” said Greene.
The province says the funded projects will include training modules and workshops that integrate cultural practices, improving relationships with emergency-management staff, and developing in-person workshops and online training.
Of the projects selected, Strathcona Regional District’s project is the only one from Vancouver Island.
The project will have staff make cultural humility training videos for the district’s reconciliation framework and training plan. The hope is through these videos, it can foster a deeper understanding within the community.
