Cultural Harmony
Richmond is one of the most diverse cities in Canada with over 60 per cent of its population born outside the country, the highest proportion of any municipality nationwide. The City of Richmond is actively involved in building cultural harmony in the community. By bringing people together in dialogue, arts and cultural programming or holding inclusive consultations, the City is committed to reducing barriers to participation and promoting a shared sense of community.
On May 25, 2020, Richmond City Council adopted and endorsed the following statement against Racism and Violence related to the COVID-19 pandemic:
In Richmond, we are a community that celebrates a rich history of culture, diversity and heritage linked to the arrival and influence of immigrants that began over a century ago.
The City of Richmond does not - and never will - condone or tolerate racist behaviour in any form. Such attitudes and actions do not reflect our community's cultural diversity or the spirit of inclusion that we are all proud of.
Events of the past few months have created uncertainty, frustration and fear for some. But that is no excuse to cast blame on others. COVID-19 should not be blamed on any single culture or country and it is certainly not the fault of anyone in our community.
Now, more than ever, we must stand together and be true to our shared values of diversity, inclusion and respect. Racial and discriminatory responses and actions have no place in Richmond. They have no place in our society.
If you've been the victim of a racially motivated incident, or have witnessed one, seek help and call the police.
- Call 9-1-1 for an act in progress
- If it is not an emergency, call the Richmond RCMP non-emergency line at 604-278-1212
- If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or visit them online at www.solvecrime.ca.
Current Initiatives & Information
Racism and Hate Have No Place in Richmond
News Release - Mar 31, 2021
The City of Richmond has been working diligently over the years to deliver programs and initiatives to build meaningful bridges amongst cultures and reduce barriers to participation.
Cultural Harmony Plan 
On November 25, 2019, City Council adopted the 
2019-2029 Cultural Harmony Plan, which will guide the City’s approach in enhancing cultural harmony among Richmond’s diverse population. This Plan sets out five strategic directions and 27 recommended actions to be completed over a 10-year period.
Since the 2019–2029 Cultural Harmony Plan was adopted in November 2019, there has been significant progress in addressing the actions outlined in the plan. The Cultural Harmony Plan Progress Report for 2019–2021 provides a high-level summary of the accomplishments and endeavours the City, in partnership with the community, has accomplished to enhance intercultural connections among Richmond’s diverse population from 2019 to 2021.
Cultural Harmony Plan Progress Report for 2019-2021
Doors Open
The City and community partners open their doors annually to the public to explore over 40 sites across the city, including museums, places of worship, green spaces, fire halls and many more. This has proven to be a popular event and helps to create cross-cultural understanding. Visit Doors Open for more information.
City of Richmond Diversity Symposium
This one-day conference focuses on sharing best practices in creating diverse and inclusive communities. It is an educational and networking event intended for municipal staff, those working in settlement and community service agencies, and community leaders of diversity and inclusion initiatives. Visit Diversity Symposium for more information.
Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee (RIAC)
The Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee (RIAC) was established by the Richmond City Council in February 2002 to advise the City on initiatives that enhance intercultural harmony and strengthen intercultural cooperation in Richmond. RIAC’s intercultural vision is “for Richmond to be the most welcoming, inclusive and harmonious community in Canada.” Visit Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee (RIAC) for more information.
Dorothy Jo
Program Manager, Social Planning
Phone: 604-276-4391
Community Social Development
Dorothy.Jo@richmond.ca