TERRACE, B.C. – June 4, 2025 – One year after its launch on May 30, 2024, British Columbia’s racist incident helpline has proven to be a vital resource, successfully connecting individuals experiencing racism with necessary support, including those in northern B.C. Approximately 94% of the 807 callers in its first year reported that their needs were met through the service.
The toll-free, multilingual helpline (1-833-457-5463) offers support, guidance, and referrals to local community services for people subjected to discrimination based on skin colour, culture, ethnicity, or place of origin. In its inaugural year, the helpline made over 2,329 referrals, averaging three support services per caller, indicating the multifaceted assistance required by those coping with racism, such as legal advice, peer support, and mental-health resources.
“Racism has no place in B.C., but we know it exists, and we are determined to continue to fight it in all its forms,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “We are proud to provide this resource that is connecting so many people in need with services that can help them heal and reclaim their sense of safety and belonging.”
The helpline’s call volume has notably been more than double that reported by California for its hate helpline’s first year, despite B.C.’s significantly smaller population. Incidents reported ranged from harassment and verbal slurs to denial of employment, occurring in various settings including workplaces (22.3%), with service providers (17.2%), and at home or with neighbours (17.7%).
The Province has backed these efforts with a $2.2 million investment in 32 community organizations in the 2023-24 fiscal year to enhance services. Saša Loggin, executive director of the Skeena Diversity Society, highlighted the local benefits of this support.
“This funding has provided us with an invaluable opportunity to dedicate staff not only to respond to incidents of racism but also to develop workshops and resources,” Loggin said. “Through this, we have deepened our connections to organizations and resources across the northern region, honouring the unique characteristics of different communities while also turning our shared humanity into a source of strength.”
One caller shared their positive experience: “I know this is a long process, but it makes me feel better to talk about everything…This has been really helpful.” This individual received referrals for tenant rights, legal assistance, and mental-health supports.
“The racist incident helpline is a core pillar of government’s efforts to counter racism and discrimination in B.C.,” said Jessie Sunner, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives. “It bridges a gap between people dealing with the trauma of racism and the essential services they need to heal.”
How to Access the Helpline: The toll-free helpline is available weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-833-457-5463 (1-833-HLP-LINE). Service is offered in over 240 languages, with a callback option for after-hours callers. For emergencies, individuals should call 911.
Further information, including a list of grant recipients and details about the helpline, can be found on the B.C. government’s news website and racistincidenthelpline.ca.
