Let’s Stop Racism In Our Community
In response to the Anti-Asian graffiti in Lower Lonsdale last month, North Van Arts collaborated with local artist Esmie 
Gayo McLaren, North Shore Multicultural Society, North Shore Immigrant Inclusion Partnership, and Centre for Diversity and Innonvation to send out a message of Connection and Friendship.
“Inspired by sakura blooms and shrieks of spontaneous play, Playful Blossoms pays homage to children’s ability to easily accept others and forge friendships. Perhaps unencumbered by discrimination and fears, they readily initiate play with newcomers. With energetic brushstrokes and soft Spring colours, I aspire to encourage connection with others and inspire friendships.” Artist Statement – Esmie Gayo McLaren
The four partners worked together with McLaren to create a poster to display in publics spaces. “The community can walk by CityScape Community ArtSpace on Lonsdale, and see this large poster in our windows. It is a way for us to recognize that we need to stop racism in our community, that the graffiti was unacceptable, and that we can start at a place of connection,” says Nancy Cottingham Powell, Executive Director of North Van Arts.
Pick up a poster or postcard at:
CityScape Community ArtSpace, 335 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver, or
MLA Bowinn Ma’s Community Office, 50-221 Esplanade Ave West North Vancouver on Tuesdays and Thursdays
Let’s Stop Racism in Our Community – More resources
Centre for Diversity and Innovation
https://thecdi.ca/resources/
BC Government Anti Racist Campaign
https://antiracist.gov.bc.ca/
BC Office of the Human Rights Commissioner – Be Anti-Racist Campaign
Asian Gold Ribbon Day Campaign
As this project was being developed, the Asian Gold Ribbon Day Campaign was founded by Dr.Gina Wong. This Thursday, May 20, we encourage you to wear a gold ribbon or Asian gold mask to show your support for Asian heritage and culture.
