VANCOUVER, B.C. — Vancouver City Council has unanimously approved a motion brought forward by Green Councillor Pete Fry on behalf of the City’s Racial Ethno-Advisory Committee affirming the importance of ongoing education for City leadership in anti-racism, decolonization, reconciliation, and dismantling systemic racism.

The motion builds on a March 2024 Council decision directing the Mayor and Councillors to receive updated human rights training through the Integrity Commissioner’s Office, and calls for that training to include specific anti-racism education relevant to municipal governance.

“Education is a core responsibility of leadership,” said Councillor Fry. “If we expect City Council to govern fairly and in the public interest, we need to ensure elected officials have a shared understanding of systemic racism, colonial history, and how those realities continue to shape institutions today.”

Clear Expectations for Training Content

As approved, the motion recommends that human rights training for Mayor and Council include:

• the role of anti-racism in addressing systems of oppression;
• clarity on the distinctions between decolonization and reconciliation; and
• reflective learning related to settler history and how elected officials came to live and govern on these lands.

The motion specifies that the additional training be funded through Councillors’ existing Travel and Training Expense Budget, ensuring no new costs to taxpayers.

Aligning Practice with Council Commitments

Vancouver City Council has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to anti-racism, reconciliation, and equity. Fry’s motion reinforces that these commitments must be reflected not only in policy outcomes, but in the education and preparation of those responsible for making decisions on behalf of the city.

“This is about leadership accountability,” Fry added. “Council has made clear commitments around equity and reconciliation. Ongoing education helps ensure those commitments are informed, consistent, and meaningful.”

A Unanimous Decision

Council’s unanimous vote signals shared recognition that continuous learning is essential to good governance, particularly in a diverse city with complex histories and responsibilities.

“Good governance requires humility, reflection, and a willingness to learn,” said Fry. “Today’s vote reflects that understanding.”