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Respect.

It is a simple, quiet word. It is also a profound concept, a necessary pillar of a healthy community. We need more of it in the world - respect for others, respect for the Earth, respect for ourselves. In our province of BC, one of the most culturally diverse places in the world, the only way of coexisting is with profound respect for each others’ differences.

My family always taught me that each of us has a responsibility to stand up for our beliefs. I think most people believe in respect. But we need to do more than just believe in it, we need to stand up for it. Especially for the children of BC’s diversity, youth growing up a multicultural reality.

Safe Harbour is a simple and profound idea. This quiet concept gives businesses, institutions and individuals the chance to stand up for respect, and be advocates for peace and justice in our communities. It’s a strong, peaceful way of standing up for diversity, a feature of our country that can make us all stronger.

- Severn Cullis-Suzuki, Social Activist, Speaker, TV Host, and Author

"The Safe Harbour program was developed so everyone in our community could feel welcome and safe, no matter what color you are, no matter who you believe in, no matter how you look. Indeed I truly believe it will keep growing as a province-wide social movement that speaks to our values as British Columbians and people who respect and honour diversity."

- Leon Bibb, Renowned Musician, Actor and Performer

"I am glad that I could be among the many professionals that were present giving his or her knowledge and experience toward the timely and sensitive material being addressed. It was all important information and will prove to be a benefit to our community."

- Christine Bamford, Chilliwack Society for Community Living

"Duncan Rona values diversity and respectful customer service for all. We are locally owned and operated, proud members of the Cowichan region, and fully embrace being part of the Safe Harbour initiative by the Cowichan Intercultural Society."

- Russell Shaw, Manager, Rona (Duncan)

"As British Columbians, we are proud of the diversity that we have come to represent. A program like Safe Harbour is much needed to help us reduce the potential for conflict by providing the opportunity for resolution through communities."

- Naeem “Nick” Noorani, President & Publisher, Canadian Immigrant Magazine

“It is exciting to be part of such a positive core belief that we all belong to one family. I enjoyed the discussion, group interaction with other like-minded people. I feel it is vital to have such courageous conversations, explore our feelings and perspectives on topics such as racism, respect, and multiculturalism.”

- Staffperson at Langley Safe Harbour

“The Safe Harbour Project does two things for our neighbourhoods and communities – it starts conversations about diversity and the importance of acceptance and safety for all community members, and at the same time it offers an opportunity for local businesses to stand up against racism and stand up for respect and inclusion. It’s a way for local businesses to give back to the community by modeling respect.”

- Lisa Pedrini, Manager, Social Responsibility and Diversity, Vancouver School Board

"I thought the program was well put together and for those who needed it I felt it was a nice thing to offer at businesses throughout the community. I would say that others would benefit from the orientation."

- Robin Goetz, Assistant Branch Manager, Envision Credit Union - Town Center Branch (Abbotsford)