While we normally write about housing issues, there are two local initiatives happening right now that we are supporting, and think are well worth your attention.
Black and Indigenous lives matter here too
Most of us are watching in horror as the continued state and police violence against black people – and all the other ways systemic racism and white supremacy – is showing itself in the US. But it’s best not to be too smug, as we have a similar reckoning to do in Canada.
The good news is there is true momentum for big change happening right now. This is not a time to sit on the sidelines.
Locally, there are two groups working to center the struggle for racial justice. A group of BIPOC people (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) are hosting a BIPOC Lives Matter rally this Saturday at 1 PM to push for safe spaces, equal representation, and equal opportunities.
Yes, people of colour face systemic racism here and they need us to see this is true, and to actively help end it. The rally is on the same weekend as “Juneteenth”, the day that commemorates the end of slavery in the US, where there will be thousands of peaceful rallies all across the US. For more information visit or RSVP to their Facebook event.
Salt Spring Social Justice Alliance is a local community group with an intersectional vision to end systemic racism and police brutality for all. Their important work developing anti-racist trainings, hosting community building events, and supporting black and Indigenous leadership on Salt Spring is very needed.
They need funding to support the organizers behind this work, so whether you are newly awakened to the struggle or have long been aware, please consider donating money to their crowdfunder. Their GoFundMe page has over 20 donors and you can help them reach their goal here.
Make climate action real – make your plan
Transition Salt Spring has been working for well over a year on the Climate Action Plan for Salt Spring. Organizers call it “the biggest shot we will have for years to influence climate policy affecting our island home”, and we’ve been in awe at the great job they’ve done engaging the island.
We’ve been trying to align the issues and solutions we’ve identified around housing justice into their plan, and are excited to help promote their public engagement.
They are using some innovative software to engage us all in setting the priorities for the plan. It takes a bit of time, but is interesting, you’ll learn a lot, and the opinions gathered have the potential to truly make a difference.
Over 600 Salt Springers have already participated. It’s fun, you’ll learn a lot, and your opinions have the potential to really make a difference.
You can start the process of making your plan / taking the survey here.
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Thanks, stay safe, and enjoy the summer weather!
