BC Office of the Human Rights Commissioner

Provincial Learning Event Webinar

May 20, 2025 | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm PDT

BC’s Human Rights Commissioner, Kasari Govender, started her term on Sept. 3, 2019. As an independent officer of the Legislature, Commissioner Govender is uniquely positioned to ensure human rights in BC are protected, respected, and advanced on a systemic level. Her work through BC’s Office of the Human Rights Commissioner is centered around listening deeply to British Columbians to inform educational materials, policy guidance, public inquiries, interventions, community-based research, and more that protects marginalized communities, addresses discrimination and injustice and upholds human rights for all.



Commissioner Govender will speak about the work of BCOHRC and share information about the recent Inquiry into detentions under the Adult Guardianship Act and the findings and recommendations stemming from the report.

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Including & Affirming 2SLGBTQI+ People Provincial Learning Event Webinar

Our recent webinar focused on inclusive language and practices to promote respect, safety, and belonging in our workplaces and communities. Speakers Horst Backé M.N. (he/him) and Ashlee Wall (she/her) highlighted key topics such as the broad spectrum of identities beyond the male/female binary and discussed the ongoing challenges faced by 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, including discrimination and economic disparities. Watch the full recording to learn how these practices can help build a world where everyone thrives authentically!

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BC CRN Welcomes April Struthers as Director of Knowledge Exchange, Research, and Learning

BC CRN is excited to announce the appointment of April Struthers as our new Director of Knowledge Exchange, Research, and Learning—a role already sparking meaningful opportunities across the Association. April brings over 20 years of experience as a Regional Mentor and has made significant contributions to our evaluation and program development work. A leader in prevention research and inclusive practice, April’s work spans across Canada, the UK, and the US, with a focus on Indigenous communities, elder abuse prevention, and anti-racism education. Her depth of expertise will be instrumental in guiding BC CRN’s ongoing learning and growth.

Read more about April

Four Inspiring Leaders Honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal

BC CRN proudly celebrates four outstanding individuals who have been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for their exceptional service to older and vulnerable adults. This national honour recognizes Canadians making meaningful contributions to their communities—and Dr. Gloria Gutman, Rosaline Glynn, Horst Backé, and Sandi McCreight truly embody that spirit.

From groundbreaking research in gerontology, to decades of senior advocacy, inclusive support for LGBTQ+ refugees, and creative programs that foster connection and well-being among older adults, their work has created lasting impact across BC. We extend heartfelt congratulations to each of them for this well-deserved recognition!

Read more about the award recipients

CRNs in the Community: Creative Solutions for Safer Aging



Community Response Networks (CRNs) across BC have introduced a range of compassionate initiatives designed to support older adults’ safety, connection, and well-being. These projects have included scam recovery sessions, craft and wellness kits, workshops on health and emergency planning, caregiver support activities, and education on risks like extreme clutter. Each initiative has helped reduce isolation, promote self-care, and build awareness of abuse and neglect. By providing practical tools, emotional support, and spaces for connection, these efforts are empowering older adults to stay informed, engaged, and better protected in their communities.

Read more for highlights from around the province

BC Human Rights Commissioner Releases Final Report on Detentions Under Adult Guardianship Act

The BC Human Rights Commissioner has released the final report from the Inquiry into detentions under the Adult Guardianship Act (AGA), raising serious concerns about the protection of vulnerable adults. The report, "We’re Still Here", found significant gaps in the legislation, including a lack of clarity around emergency powers and insufficient safeguards for individual rights. It concludes that the balance between protecting adults and respecting their liberty is currently inadequate. Commissioner Kasari Govender calls for major changes to law and policy to ensure the dignity and rights of vulnerable adults are upheld.

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Supporting the Supporters: How Family Caregivers of BC Is Preventing Adult Abuse, Neglect, and Self-Neglect

Family Caregivers of BC (FCBC) is a vital resource for the 1.4 million unpaid caregivers across BC who support loved ones facing illness, disability, or age-related challenges. Many caregivers face burnout, poor mental health, and financial stress, yet often don’t seek help until a crisis hits. FCBC offers emotional support, system navigation, and personalized care plans through their Caregiver Support Line and programs like Caregiver Rx. By supporting caregivers early, FCBC helps prevent adult abuse, neglect, and self-neglect—ensuring both caregivers and care recipients are safer and more supported.

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Celebrating Intergenerational Day: Building Age-Friendly Communities Together

June 1st marks Intergenerational Day, a time to celebrate the meaningful connections between people of all ages, especially between younger generations and older adults. For our Community Response Networks (CRNs), Intergenerational Day is more than just a celebration—it’s a call to action. It reminds us that building inclusive, age-friendly communities where seniors and vulnerable adults feel safe, supported, and valued requires intention and collaboration. Let’s use this day as an opportunity to build bridges across generations and continue creating communities where all ages are safe, supported, and valued.

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Strategy to ACTION: Driving Change Across Canada

Virtual Event

May 6, 2025 | 10:00 am - 11:30 am PDT

On Tuesday, May 6 join BC Community Response Networks and many of our provincial counterparts as we share an update on what has been happening across Canada over the past three years to prioritize prevention of elder abuse and neglect in every community!

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See Something, Say Something! Reducing Risk for Older Adults

Online Presentation

May 6, 2025 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm PDT

Older adults living alone or in isolation may be at risk—but you can help. Join us for this dynamic online Zoom presentation to learn how to take action and help keep older adults safe, secure, and independent.

Who should attend this session? Anyone who interacts with older or vulnerable adults, including bank personnel, letter carriers, grocery store and restaurant staff, volunteers, caregivers, drivers, pharmacy and healthcare workers, church members, and social groups.

Let’s work together to build safer, more connected communities.

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It’s Not Right! Neighbours, Friends & Families for Older Adults

Online Presentation

June 3, 2025 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm PDT

Concerned about an older adult? Learn what to look for and how to help. You're invited to take part in this online Zoom presentation—your participation could have a meaningful impact on someone's life.

In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to recognize the warning signs of abuse and neglect, understand the impact of ageism, and respond with care and confidence when something doesn’t feel right, plus much more.

Whether you’re a neighbour, friend, family member, or simply someone who cares, your voice matters. Together, we can help build more supportive and respectful communities for older adults.

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National WEAAD Webinar

Virtual Event

June 11, 2025 | 10:00 am - 11:30 am PDT

Join us for the National WEAAD webinar as we come together to take action against elder abuse. This interactive session will feature a panel of experts and advocates sharing powerful insights on how we can protect the rights of older adults across Canada. Whether you're an individual, organization, or government representative, you play a crucial role in creating a society where older adults are valued and supported.

Space is limited, so secure your seat now and be part of the movement to end elder abuse in Canada.

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BC CRN Annual General Meeting

Save the Date!

June 24, 2025 | 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm PDT

Attention CRN Coordinators: BC CRN's Annual General Meeting will be held over Zoom on June 24, 2025. Stay tuned for more details.