Racism and bullying represent interconnected negative behaviours with significant impacts on our community. When these abuses of power occur, they disrupt our fundamental rights to express ourselves authentically and exist without fear of discrimination.

In an exclusive interview, hosts Poran Poregbal and Samira Gholami engage with Reza Mohaghegh, a registered clinical counsellor based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Poran initiates the dialogue by stating the detrimental effects of racism and bullying on individuals and communities. Particularly within newcomer and immigrant circles, reporting such misconduct poses challenges due to cultural barriers and fear of repercussions.

The focal point of this discourse revolves around instances of racism and bullying within educational institutions, with an emphasis on equipping parents to identify early warning signs, especially in children. It is underscored and acknowledged that both the Government of British Columbia and Canada have instituted appropriate legislation and legal frameworks to combat racism and bullying effectively.

Acknowledging Canada's multiculturalism and the importance of respecting diverse heritages, this conversation delves into our collective responsibility to exercise our freedom of speech and use communication channels to seek assistance when confronted with such distressing behaviours.

Reza stresses that bullying, often rooted in a quest for dominance, does not always stem solely from racial prejudices. He stresses that individuals may resort to bullying for multifarious reasons, with factors like race and privilege playing potential roles. This nuanced perspective underscores the necessity for an understanding of power dynamics, and the different strategies needed to address bullying within our communities.

Samira directs her focus towards empowering the community to address racism and bullying head-on. Reza underscores the significance of sustained dialogues and community involvement as effective tools, fostering an environment conducive to open dialogue and mutual support in confronting these challenges.

In conclusion, Poran, Samira, and Reza underscore the pivotal role of education, community capacity building, and effective communication. They highlight education's role in fostering awareness, community empowerment to build resilience, and the transformative influence of transparent communication in combating racism and bullying. Together, these pillars serve as cornerstones in cultivating a more inclusive and supportive societal fabric.

More info: https://www.bullyingcanada.ca/

Guest: Dr. Reza Mohaghegh Registered clinical counsellor in Vancouver, BC

Volunteer Hosts:

Poran Poregbal MA, RSW, RCC Doctoral Candidate in Counselling and Psychotherapy

Samira Gholami, BA, MA Candidate Psychotherapist, Co-Founder, Director of Operations Member of (CCPA)

Producer and Journalist:

Sherry Soltani

Skyrise Media Society