New youth initiative to fund diversity and inclusion projects

Mélanie Joly

Are you 18 to 24 years of  age and have an idea for a project to support diversity and inclusion?

You may be eligible for funding through a new youth initiative.

Last  week, Mélanie Joly, Minister of  Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, announced the launch of the Paul Yuzyk Youth Initiative

” This Initiative will fund projects that promote our diversity and celebrate our differences, while recognizing the outstanding leaders who are working to make a positive difference in their communities,” she said.

This annual funding Initiative will award micro-grants of up to $1000 to dozens of young Canadians to fund projects that promote diversity and inclusion in their communities.

And, according to a news release from  the Ministry of  Canadian Heritage, it is in keeping with the Government of Canada’s commitment “to promoting multiculturalism and strengthening our diverse communities, while working to eliminate discrimination, racism and prejudice in all its forms. ”

The Initiative will honour the legacy of the late Senator Paul Yuzyk “in developing and promoting Canadian multiculturalism by inspiring young leaders to continue advancing cultural understanding and inclusion in‎ communities across the country. ”

It will be administered by Inter-Action, the Government of Canada’s multiculturalism grants and contributions program, which funds community engagement and development projects which promote intercultural understanding and equal opportunities for people of all cultures.