A note against racism during COVID-19

Burnaby is among the most diverse cities in the country. Our mosaic of cultures, languages, faiths, and perspectives transform into the ideas and discourses that make Burnaby the wonderful community that it is. Indeed, it makes possible the festivals, celebrations, food and artwork – the sights, sounds and smells – that shape the very fabric of what it means to be a Burnabarian.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and long before, individuals and organizations from many different backgrounds in Burnaby and across Metro Vancouver have rallied in support of Burnaby Hospital. Since its inception in 2018, Burnaby Hospital Foundation’s Chinese Ambassador Society has helped raise well over half a million dollars in support of the facility’s urgently needed medical equipment, supplies, and programming. Nearly half of that support has come over the last ten weeks to ensure frontline staff have had what they need to safely and effectively care for our families, friends and neighbours. For that, we are eternally grateful.

Now, at a time when racist attacks are apparently on the rise across Canada and in our city, it is vital we stand up and rally behind those who have rallied for us. Burnaby Hospital Foundation – including our staff, Board of Trustees, committees, volunteers, and our partners – will not stand by and accept racism in any form. We will not allow hatred and division to diminish what has been for the vast majority of us a time of overwhelming generosity and cooperation for the greater good of our shared society.

Today is World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. And while the COVID-19 pandemic has been a very difficult and stressful time for so many, throughout it all Burnaby Hospital Foundation and the frontline heroes at Burnaby Hospital have enjoyed unprecedented support from people of all ethnicities, backgrounds and beliefs. That’s love. That’s Burnaby. That’s our shared humanity. And that is what we stand for.

Thank you to all the individuals, organizations and businesses of all backgrounds who have supported Burnaby Hospital throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

For a full list of major supporters ($1000+) of the COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund, CLICK HERE.