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Racism a major concern for Calgary says new survey

An annual survey of Calgarians shows most believe racism exists in their city, but only about half believe we’re committed to anti-racism. That number drops even more when you ask Black and Indigenous people, highlighting why it’s important to collect race-based data. Jon Muma has more.

CALGARY (660 NEWS) – Is Calgary doing enough to address the problem of racism in the city?

According to a new survey, the answer is no.

The Calgary Foundation recently unveiled its 2020 Vital Signs report, taking in hundreds of responses on issues that mattered the most to Calgarians during the pandemic.

While topics of mental health, finances, and the environment were talked about in the survey, one of the biggest issues brought forward was the treatment of Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) in Calgary.

Over 80 per cent of those surveyed believe racism against the BIPOC community exists with over 60 per cent saying the police are part of the problem.

About 72 per cent of Black and Indigenous Calgarians say they’ve experience disproportionate levels of violence at the hands of police.

“By reflecting on the inequality, discrimination, and hardship many of us unfairly experience, we can begin to change,” said President of the Calgary Foundation Eva Friesen.

“Reflection is an important first step to lasting change, but our collective responsibility does not end there. We have seen now it is time to act.”

FULL REPORT

The report also showed half of Black and Indigenous peoples in Calgary don’t believe the city is accepting of others from diverse backgrounds, with 67 per cent of Black Calgarians saying they didn’t feel safe.

On the plus side, the survey did find over 50 per cent of people are committed to battling racism and fighting for equality and inclusion in the city and a large number believe public art projects should reflect the culture and history of Black and Indigenous Calgarians.

The Vital Signs report also showed troubling stats on the financial and mental well-being of many Calgarians during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over 30 per cent of respondents said they struggle to afford basic needs like rent, food, and utilities while 27 per cent are having trouble finding sustainable employment.

About 67 per cent said they are pessimistic about the future of the economy.

WATCH: Students walk out of class to protest systemic racism in schools

On the other side, many Calgarians are still helping each other in these difficult times with 44 per cent saying they’ve volunteered at a local charity with three-quarters feeling comfortable exercising their rights.

The Calgary Foundation took responses from 1,000 Calgarians for the survey.

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