March 2010
This protocol document was created through the efforts of a group of diverse and representative community members. The purpose of this protocol document is to promote equity, compassion, and respect for all members of the Central Okanagan community and to defend actively those rights through individual awareness, education and community support.
The protocol outlines three levels of response to incidents of discrimination:

Individual:
If you, as an individual or a group, experience racism:
1. Remember: Racism is not OK, but it is OK to talk about it.
2. Tell someone: A friend or witness, and the OK to Say Task Force and the RCMP or another law enforcement agency.
3. Follow up until the situation is resolved.

If you witness or are told about an act of racism: ACT
Ally: Stand by and support the individual or group.
Connect: Link the person with the OK to Say Task Force or RCMP or other law enforcement agency.
Touch base: Follow up with the person over time to ensure that their needs have been met and appropriate assistance was provided.

Community:
Communities, groups, businesses and organizations in the Central Okanagan can sign up to be contacted when incidents occur. Possible responses by communities can include:
· Describe the incident to their congregation or group
· Send a letter of support to the relevant organization or group
· Send a letter to the editor when significant incidents occur
· Send a letter or make a phone call to City Hall
· Participate in united public action if desired by the affected individual or community

Task force:
A task force of community members coordinates the application of the protocol in the community, acts as the contact point for information, and promotes the positive values of the protocol. They:
Gather information about each incident.
Share information with interested communities.
Interact with affected individuals and communities for follow-up and support.
Track the reports of incidents.
Share trends and public information with the media.
Provide information and training for the public.

This project funded by The Ministry of the Attorney General of the Province of BC.