Anti-Racism Commitment

Systemic racism is deeply rooted in historical, social, material, and economic inequalities, and we understand this is a lived reality for many in our communities. We acknowledge and share a deep respect for people striving to create change within systems that devalue the lives and futures of Black, Indigenous, and racialized peoples. We are motivated by and learning from the Black Lives Matter movement, and its resistance and resilience.

Organizers are dedicated to working with and learning from partners, exhibitors, vendors, and festival stakeholders to dismantle systemic racism, while specifically supporting Indigenous, Black and People of Colour (IBPOC) to create a safe and inclusive event. Surrey Tree Lighting Festival organizers have paused to reflect internally, to listen, learn, and accept responsibility to continue to create change. Imagining our collective futures, and as witnesses to this historic movement of social change, we commit ourselves to the following actions:

• Surrey Tree Lighting Festival will continue to coordinate Indigenous programming and features;
• Surrey Fusion Festival will continue to coordinate Indigenous programming and features;
• Surrey Tree Lighting Festival organizers commit to supporting BIPOC performers and entertainers, by programming a balanced festival representative of Surrey’s diverse communities;
• Organizers are committed to evaluating and diversifying programming to ensure it achieves the goal of accessibility and inclusion of all colours, genders, sexual orientations, beliefs, and abilities; and
• Organizers will coordinate a post-event debrief with staff and contractors to ensure ongoing learning.

If you would like to participate in the festival, or would like to share your thoughts or suggestions, please email specialevents@surrey.ca.

For more information on Surrey’s commitment to reconciliation, diversity, inclusion, social equity, and anti-racism, visit the City of Surrey’s diversity and inclusion webpage.