Anti-racism resources

OC is for everyone

At Okanagan College, we are working toward transformative inclusion: ensuring that everyone is included in all aspects of the college community and embracing how the journey to full inclusion will transform us as a post-secondary institution.

We are committed to fostering safer and more inclusive campuses by supporting people affected by discrimination, prejudice, and inequality through dedicated support, ongoing education, and action. This webpage is dedicated to providing resources of where help is available at OC and in the community.

Immediate support

Campus Security

  • Kelowna campus: 250-317-2435
  • Penticton campus: 250-486-3879
  • Salmon Arm campus:  250-317-2435 (no on-site security)
  • Vernon campus: 250-307-4574

Security offers a Safe Walk program should you wish for security to escort you to your vehicle or another location on campus. Visit the Campus Security webpage for more information on this resource and to download the OC Safe app. 

 

Racist Incident Helpline

If you or a loved one have experienced or witnessed racism in British Columbia, help is available provided by the Government of BC and United Way.

Call the Racist Incident Helpline to speak with a trained professional who will help you navigate resources available to you in your community. 

It’s free, confidential, and available Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (PST).

Access the helpline 

When you dial 1-833-457-5463, you’ll be connected directly with a staff member who has completed trauma response and cultural sensitivity training.

The operator can:

  • Listen to your experience,
  • Provide information about local support services,
  • Direct you on next steps based on your comfort level, and
  • With your consent, refer you to the services that best match your needs.
  • Assistance is available in over 240 languages, so let the person who answers your call know your preferred language. 

 

External online reporting tool

uad image

United Against Discrimination (UAD) is a local incident reporting tool that will also provide information on community resources and stand up for those affected by discrimination. 
 

 Report an incident to UAD

The United Against Discrimination (UAD) is a program of Kelowna Community Resources (KCR). UAD works against racism and discrimination through their cooperative agencies and individual bystanders through data collection and referrals to community supports. The goal is to raise awareness, develop a community-based solutions, and build capacity to provide support to victims. Information shared is confidential. 

 

Make a formal complaint to OC

Make a formal complaint to OC

For more information on OC Policies and Procedures, click here.

Racism is not a singular event or act; it is a deeply embedded system of oppression that demands a collective effort to dismantle. Anti-racism is not just a stance but a daily practice of challenging injustice and fostering equality.

On-campus support

graphic of group of multicultural hands grasped together in unity

Coordinated Support Services

Coordinated Support Services supports students who might struggle to navigate the complexities of post-secondary education. They are able to work with the student to gain insight into their struggles and make effective referrals to other OC or community-based support services. To get help accessing support and to discuss what options may be available to you, please reach out to the Student Support Specialist to set up a meeting. 

Student Support Specialist: Kaylen Lesko: Klesko@okanagan.bc.ca

 

Counselling

The Okanagan College counselling team supports students through an anti-oppressive lens by providing inclusive, trauma-informed care that respects diverse identities and experiences. They actively work to create safe, non-judgmental spaces where students can explore challenges without fear of discrimination. Through culturally sensitive practices, advocacy for equity, and a commitment to addressing systemic barriers, the team empowers students to navigate their personal and academic journeys with confidence and support. This approach ensures all students feel seen, heard, and valued. Contact Counselling Services  for support and to discuss your options.

Indigenous Services

Email indigenous@okanagan.bc.ca for support.

International Education Department

Educational resources

Be part of the solution

end-systemic-racism
Anti-Racism Awareness
University of British Columbia

This course will systemically cover and uncover implicit and explicit forms of historic, systemic and institutional racisms and their colonial and intersectional impacts on marginalized peoples and their communities in the past and in contemporary times.
non-racist;anti
10 Tips and Resources to Develop an Anti-racist Classroom
George Brown College

In a racist society, it is not enough to be non-racist, we must be anti-racist. – Angela Davis. Students who face racism are unable to perform to their full academic potential. Anti-Racism requires a commitment to learning.
end-racism
Learning about Racism
Canadian Race Relations Foundation

A free online program that has brought together a “faculty” of subject matter experts to create a curriculum and a set of reading materials. Learners, drawn from multiple sectors, will read provided material and participate in courses led by experts in the topic of discussion.
confronting anti-black
Confronting Anti-Black Racism
University of Waterloo

This course will explore the historical roots of anti-Black racism and white supremacy in the Americas. Emphasis will be placed on Canada’s settler colonial status, pulling content from across the Black Atlantic. Learn how to combat anti-Black racism.
say-no
Anti-Racism Specialization
University of Colorado Boulder

Be an anti-racist ally!. Gain confidence participating in and guiding conversations about race, racism, and identity and act as an ally in your community to combat racism and white supremacy. Reflect on how you can be an anti-racist advocate.

OC policies & procedures

For students

For employees

Community resources

Contact us?

Learn more and get involved
 okanagan.bc.ca/edisj 

Comments or questions? Email
 edisj@okanagan.bc.ca

Want to join the Anti-Racism Working Group? Email
 edisj@okanagan.bc.ca