More than 50 community projects across B.C. have received $500 grants to combat harmful misinformation as part of the B.C. Human Rights Commissioner’s Community Amplifier initiative.
One of the projects, Transform the Words in Kelowna, saw more than 1,000 colourful origami cranes hanging from the roof of the downtown library.
The installation created by Advocacy Canada with 13 partner groups, libraries and mental health organizations, uses personal stories to counter misinformation about sexual orientation and gender identity.
“When people can differentiate between fact and falsehood, misinformation loses its power, and we all gain the ability to better participate in our communities and democracy ,” said commissioner Kasari Govender.
“Getting our facts straight is essential in protecting and promoting human rights, especially for vulnerable communities.”
The Community Amplifier project is part of the Misinformation: Can You Stop It campaign and funds classrooms, youth groups, Indigenous organizations and other local groups, with projects addressing issues such as racism, transphobia, climate change, homelessness, abortion access, and more.
More than 3,900 people participated directly in projects across B.C., reaching an estimated 54,000+ people.
Advocacy Canada director of communications, Alan Gonzales, says the Kelowna cranes were designed to spark conversation in the community.
“We folded paper to share our voices. These origami cranes carry us forward, transforming division into dialogue and dialogue into community care.
According to Govender, the initiative builds on her office’s 2023 public inquiry report, From Hate to Hope, which highlighted how misinformation and disinformation have fueled hate and discrimination.
“I have been so inspired by how these projects have demonstrated the power of people working together to cultivate belonging and debunk harmful myths during a time of rampant polarization,” added Govender.
The broader campaign has reached over eight million people to promote the STOP method for fighting misinformation, which is to share when you’re sure, track down the truth, outsmart the outrage and poke at the point of view.
The projects and an interactive map are available on the BC Human Rights website.