ARIE Research Update: 2023 Survey Results on Student and Parent/Guardian Experiences

What are students saying about racism and anti-racism in 2023?

In early spring 2023, findings from the first Anti-Racism in the Education System project (ARIE) survey with high school students were shared. The survey is part of the broader ARIE project goals: gaining an understanding of the experiences of racialized students in BC schools, and refining and enhancing anti-racism policies and initiatives, while providing support for racialized youth in schools. 

At the request of our collaborators, a second version of this online survey to gather “on the ground data” from students (and this time, parents and guardians too) was done in May and June 2023. We are delighted to share infographics and analysis from this second 2023 ARIE survey. The outcomes of the survey provided valuable perspectives on both students and parents experiences of racism within the educational system, and we’ll continue to analyze and work to respond to the issues and concerns raised. 

Illuminating Insights: Findings from the latest survey showed the need for more effective implementation and streamlining of anti-racism policies and initiatives within schools, as well as for proactive measures to address racism and support racialized youth. See below for some infographics that highlight the issues raised. 

From the 2023 survey, we learned the following: 

  • Safety Concerns: Half of the surveyed students reported feeling unsafe or uncomfortable at school due to factors such as race, ethnicity, English speaking ability, status in Canada, or cultural background.

  • Reporting Incidents: Racialized students were less likely to report racist incidents when they occurred, with 33% of surveyed students uncertain about the existence of racism-related policies at their school.

  • Education and Advocacy: 64% of participants (both students and parents) frequently found themselves in situations where they needed to explain, inform, or educate their peers, teachers, families, or school staff about matters related to race, racism, and anti-racism.

  • Religious and Cultural Expression: The survey findings indicated that 38% of students and parents expressed discomfort or a sense of unsafety when it came to wearing clothing or symbols representative of their religion or culture and practicing or celebrating their religious or cultural heritage within the school environment.

Where are we going from here?

While the 2023 ARIE survey has finished, our commitment to the ARIE project remains steadfast. We will continue to conduct further analyses and actively ensure the survey findings are contributing to the overall project's ongoing efforts. These findings will be instrumental in shaping our anti-racism training initiatives, which are set to run from now until March 2024. These workshops will be grounded in information that we’ve gathered so far, like from this survey.


If you’re interested in learning more, we’re holding a public anti-racism workshop and discussion on October 14th, 12:30pm at 1025 Mason St. Stay tuned for more details, or contact hello@creansociety.org.

Guest User