Province providing $400,000 in grants to fight hate, inequity and racism

The province is providing $400,000 in grants to several organizations to help address systemic hate, inequity and racism.

The government says 11 community organizations working to tackle those issues in Nova Scotia will receive funding.

The money comes through the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism’s Community Network Grant Program.

Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Becky Druhan, says the grants will support projects ranging from assisting 2SLGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers to anti-racism education.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism for supporting the creation of our new inclusive community hub in downtown Halifax. This funding allows individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to take the lead in researching how to make the space truly welcoming, especially for those who face additional barriers to inclusion.

“Their insights will help shape everything from events and programs to signage and design, ensuring accessibility is at the heart of this project. Thanks to this support, we are building a space where community connections can flourish and everyone feels they belong,” said Alice Evans, executive director of Prescott Group.

Some of the organizations receiving funding include:

• African Nova Scotian Justice Institute – $22,500 to support Black and African Nova Scotians in correctional facilities in accessing culturally relevant legal and community-based resources.
• Portapique Market – $27,400 to provide training to staff, volunteers and community members to enhance inclusiveness and cultural sensitivity.
• Queer Health Coalition – $40,000 to provide education and training to health-care professionals on the unique needs of queer individuals, newcomers and women from minority faith-based communities when accessing services.
• Souls Harbour Rescue Mission – $40,000 to support its work on the Eastern Shore to promote long-term stability and social inclusion for marginalized populations, including people with disabilities, survivors of violence and those in rural areas.