Presenting Our Partners: The Canadian Race Relations Foundation

Through its programs and educational work to confront racial injustice, the Canadian Race Relations Foundation seeks to strengthen Canadian identity and promote human dignity, equality, fairness, and justice.  Although "faith" is not front and centre in the organization's name, Executive Director Anita Bromberg acknowledges the vital importance of faith in Canada's unfolding story. "As multiculturalism grows, so too does religious diversity," she explained. "For many individuals and groups of people in society, religion is inextricably tied to identity. In order to realize the full expression of diversity and inclusion, we must include and embrace everyone’s faith, and learn to live with people of all religious and racial backgrounds."

Looking ahead to 2017 she explained, "The CRRF will continue to ensure that diversity and faith are part of the conversation around building inclusion in Canada. We plan to partner with various community organizations on conferences marking Canada's 150th anniversary. An exmphasis on faith will be part of the Youth Ambassador program for 2017. We also plan to continue our partnership with the National Film Board's The Faith Project."

In October, the Foundation's 2016 National Conference will bring communities from across Canada together through interactive presentations and hands-on breakout sessions to discuss the challenges and promises ahead. An impressive lineup of speakers will lead sessions on topics ranging from reconciliation and the barriers to an inclusive society to the challenges faced by police services in Canada.

The Foundation's annual Awards of Excellence on Oct. 27, will also celebrate best practices in race relations from organizations across Canada. The event will host a fireside chat with Cameron Bailey, Artistic Director of the Toronto International Film Festival.  All Faith Alliance partners are especially invited to take part.