Group hopes living logo will help eliminate racism in Lethbridge

LETHBRIDGE – In hopes of making Lethbridge a safer, more inclusive city, a colourful group of people took over the downtown Monday afternoon.

The International Day for the Elimination of Racism and Discrimination was first recognized by the United Nations in 1966.

The day includes events and rallies around the world, and in Lethbridge, the Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination celebrated by bringing out the living logo.

“We’re going to go around to different businesses and agencies to talk to people in the street and hand out information about why this day is so important and what this is actually and means for our community,” Roy Pogorzelski, inclusion consultant with the City of Lethbridge said.

In addition to going around the downtown core, CCMARD is also starting the hashtag campaign #SayNoToRacismYQL in hopes of reaching more people on social media.

Pogorzelski said that while residents in Lethbridge are working hard to make the city a safe and inclusive place, there are hurdles they have to overcome.

“I think as the city of Lethbridge, it’s our responsibility to provide service to every citizen regardless of your background, culture, way of life, ability, source of income, gender identity, etc.,” Pogorzelski said.

“This is our challenge and this is our job and we have to be a leader in that approach.”

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While the living logo was only around for the day, residents are encouraged to use and share the hashtag #SayNoToRacismYQL on all social media platforms.