STAND STRONG
Youth Against Racism: Recognize · Respond · Support · Include
Project Overview
STAND STRONG is a youth-led anti-racism education and community engagement initiative designed and delivered by the AIC Youth Leadership Group in Fredericton. The project gives young people practical, real-world tools to recognize racism and discrimination, respond safely and calmly, support people who experience racism, and become positive bystanders and community leaders.
The program combines interactive workshops, scenario-based learning, peer education, storytelling, community discussions, and digital resources. The emphasis is on practical skills rather than awareness alone: participants practice what they can actually do when they witness or experience racism in schools, workplaces, online spaces, or community settings.
The project is intentionally youth-led. Young leaders make key project decisions, develop workshop content, facilitate activities, and build educational materials, with organizational support and mentorship from the Indo-Canadian Association of Fredericton (AIC).
Project Objectives
✦ Understand & Recognize
Increase youth understanding of racism, discrimination, stereotypes, bias, and microaggressions.
✦ De-escalate & Respond
Build practical skills for responding to racism safely, calmly, and constructively.
✦ Active Allyship
Teach bystander and ally skills, including direct and indirect ways to support someone experiencing racism.
✦ Community Resources
Create reusable educational materials and resources that remain available to the Fredericton community.
Planned Activities & Sessions
Session 1 – RECOGNIZE October 2026
Interactive education and discussions on racism, discrimination, stereotypes, bias, and microaggressions. Establish basic understandings and vocabulary.
Session 2 – RESPOND November 2026
Scenario-based workshop focusing on what to do when racism happens, including key safety measures, calm dialogue, and de-escalation techniques.
Session 3 – SUPPORT December 2026
Practical bystander approaches to help individuals experiencing racism, introducing the 5 D's: Direct, Distract, Delegate, Delay, and Document.
Session 4 – INCLUDE January – February 2027
"Youth Voices" event featuring youth-created messages, short presentations, art, media, and project reflections. Finalization and publication of digital resources.
Accessibility & Safe Participation
- ✔ **Free Admission:** Participation is completely free for all community members.
- ✔ **Bilingual Support:** Content and communication support is available in English and Hindi.
- ✔ **Safe Space & Privacy:** Personal disclosure of experiencing racism is never required. Anonymous questions and feedback options will be active during all sessions.
- ✔ **Inclusive Planning:** Light refreshments and planning will consider dietary, cultural, and accessibility needs.
Sign Up for STAND STRONG
Join the Youth Leadership Team or register as a workshop participant.