SIETAR British Columbia Votes to Become SIETAR Canada - A New Chapter for Intercultural Growth

At the Special General Meeting held on September 10th, 2024, at 6PM ET, the Society for

Intercultural Education, Training, & Research British Columbia (SIETAR BC) took a pivotal

step in its evolution by voting unanimously to incorporate as a federal not-for-profit under the temporary name SIETAR Canada. This exciting change marks a new chapter for SIETAR BC, reflecting its ambitions to expand its impact across Canada, connect interculturalists nationwide, and foster meaningful programs that contribute to Canada's multicultural social fabric. The SIETAR BC Board of Directors would like to thank all SIETAR BC members, past and present, including past board members for the robust dialogue and considerations on the transition to a federal organization. The Board of Directors thanks you all for your engagement and support!

Expanding Horizons: A National Vision for Interculturalism

Founded with a mission to support and promote intercultural education, training, research, and racial literacy, SIETAR BC has long been at the forefront of advancing intercultural

understanding in British Columbia; however, recognizing the growing need for intercultural

dialogue and collaboration across the entire country, the organization decided to take this bold step toward becoming a federal entity. Such a step also ensures the sustainability of the

organization.

By transitioning to SIETAR Canada, the organization can now actively engage with

interculturalists from all provinces and territories. This move opens the door for membership

expansion, creating a robust network of professionals, educators, researchers, and advocates

dedicated to fostering intercultural understanding and competence throughout Canada. It is a significant milestone in SIETAR BC’s journey toward making a broader impact on Canada’s diverse social landscape.

Strengthening Canada’s Multicultural Tapestry

Canada's identity is deeply rooted in its multiculturalism. As a nation built on diversity, the need for intercultural dialogue, education, and competency has never been more crucial. Through its work, SIETAR Canada aims to play a vital role in strengthening this cultural mosaic by providing resources, training, and opportunities for collaboration that enhance intercultural understanding, inclusivity and belonging.

As a federal not-for-profit, SIETAR Canada will be better positioned to develop national

programs that reflect the unique experiences of different regions. The organization will also be able to address the specific needs of both urban and rural communities, ensuring that the

conversation about intercultural competence is truly inclusive. By reaching out to every corner of the country, SIETAR Canada can amplify voices and experiences that reflect Canada’s rich diversity.

Aligning with Global SIETAR Organizations

Incorporating as SIETAR Canada not only strengthens the organization’s national presence but also brings it into alignment with the broader global network of SIETAR organizations. SIETAR International, founded in 1974, has grown into a global community of professionals committed to intercultural education and research. Countries like the United States, Japan, the Netherlands, and many others already have national SIETAR chapters that work within this international framework to advance intercultural understanding in their respective regions.

By joining this global network as SIETAR Canada, the organization positions itself as a peer

among its international counterparts, opening up opportunities for global partnerships, shared research initiatives, and international collaboration on intercultural programs. This alignment also underscores SIETAR Canada’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of practice and research in the field of intercultural relations, further enhancing its credibility and impact both at home and abroad.

Access to Federal Grants - Empowering Growth & Innovation

One of the most exciting aspects of SIETAR BC's transition to SIETAR Canada is the newfound opportunity to access federal funding grants. As a federally incorporated organization, SIETAR Canada will be eligible for a wide range of grants and funding opportunities that were previously out of reach. This access to financial resources will allow the organization to design and implement innovative programming that supports both the professional growth of its members and the broader social good.

With the ability to tap into federal grants, SIETAR Canada will be able to launch new projects

that enhance intercultural education, promote research in the field, and create platforms for

intercultural dialogue at the national level. These initiatives will empower individuals and

communities to navigate and celebrate cultural differences, ultimately contributing to a more

cohesive and inclusive society.

A Bright Future for SIETAR Canada

SIETAR BC's decision to evolve into SIETAR Canada reflects a strategic commitment to

expanding its reach and deepening its impact across the country. With a growing membership, increased engagement with interculturalists nationwide, and access to new funding streams, SIETAR Canada is poised to become a leading force in fostering intercultural understanding and

cooperation in Canada.

As the organization embarks on this exciting new journey, it remains dedicated to its core

mission: promoting intercultural education, training, and research that strengthens the fabric of Canadian societies. The transition to a national organization opens up endless possibilities for collaboration, innovation, and growth—ensuring that SIETAR Canada will continue to be a key player in shaping the future of intercultural relations in Canada for years to come.

Updates on the transition will be provided on this website and in your inbox. Stay tuned as

SIETAR Canada takes its first steps as a national organization and begins to shape new pathways for intercultural learning, racial literacy and inclusion dialogue, and collaboration across Canada!