On behalf of: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Observed each year on March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination commemorates the 1960 Sharpeville massacre in South Africa, when police killed 69 people who were peacefully protesting apartheid “pass laws" – laws that forced Black people to carry official documents at all times to control where they could live, work and travel, enforcing racial segregation and inequality. It serves as a reminder that racial discrimination is not only a historical injustice, but a reality that continues to affect people and communities around the world.
While progress has been made, racism and discrimination remain persistent issues in Canada. Indigenous Peoples, along with racialized communities, continue to experience inequities that affect safety, well‑being and access to opportunity. This day is both a moment of reflection and a call to action, urging individuals and organizations to actively challenge racism, address systemic barriers and recommit to building communities where everyone is respected and supported.
Ongoing Work at Island Health
At Island Health, we recognize that colonization, systemic racism and discrimination have contributed to ongoing health and workplace inequities. Racism and discrimination are serious public health concerns that affect access to care, outcomes and experiences within the health system.
Island Health's Position on Racism and Discrimination affirms our commitment to advancing equitable and inclusive care, programs and workplaces. We explicitly acknowledge the harm caused by colonization and racism, particularly to Indigenous Peoples, and commit to addressing biases in our systems, policies, practices and personal interactions. Everyone has the right to work and receive care in an environment that is safe, respectful and free from discrimination.
This commitment is also reflected in action – the Indigenous‑specific Anti‑Racism and Discrimination (ISAR) Policy establishes clear expectations, accountability and helps to establish a speak‑up culture to address Indigenous‑specific racism and discrimination. New mandatory education fosters cultural safety, humility and anti‑racism across Island Health.
In April 2024, Island Health also launched the Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour (IBPOC) Employee Resource Group (ERG). The IBPOC ERG provides a supportive space for racialized staff to connect and share experiences, while also helping inform organizational learning and change.
Looking Ahead
Island Health's work to address racism and discrimination is ongoing. The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) 3-Year Roadmap (2025–2028), being announced in the coming weeks, will provide a multi‑year roadmap to strengthen equity, inclusion and belonging across the organization.
We recognize there is more work to do. Efforts are underway to identify gaps and barriers experienced by equity‑deserving groups at Island Health. The DEI team is beginning a series of conversations across the organization to better understand employee experiences and share information about DEI supports and resources. Teams or leaders interested in participating are encouraged to reach out at dei@islandhealth.ca.
Education & Resources
For those who want to learn more and support ongoing efforts to eliminate racism and discrimination at Island Health, please visit the following pages:
- Free PHSA Course: DEI Essentials - Through an Anti-Racism Lens
- Mandatory Island Health Course: “Working Together As One" to Address Indigenous-specific Racism and Discrimination
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Intranet Page
- Indigenous, Black, People of Colour Intranet Page
- Indigenous Health & Cultural Safety Intranet Pages
Reporting Pathways & Supports
Racism and discrimination are not tolerated at Island Health, and individuals who experience or witness racism or discrimination have a duty to report these concerns and are encouraged to do so by contacting the Respectful Workplace Team at respectfulworkplace@islandhealth.ca or isarreports@islandhealth.ca.
Island Health offers a range of confidential, culturally appropriate wellness, mental health and workplace supports for employees who experience racism or discrimination, including counselling, crisis supports and career guidance. Visit the pages below for a full list of available resources: