Following an unprecedented provincial election in B.C., history was made when eight South Asians were elected to the province’s legislature. OMNI Television sat down with each candidate to learn more about their journey through politics and how they’re looking to support the unique cultural needs of their community. With more than 365,705 South Asian people living in B.C. and making up to 30 per cent of the population in hotspots like Surrey, Abbotsford and Delta, many saw this as an important step towards accurately representing the local population in government. Just a few weeks later, B.C. Premier John Horgan brought diversity into his cabinet by appointing a South Asian minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation.
OMNI caught up with Ravi Kahlon, who shared his plans for creating new jobs in the province during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a cultural group usually not considered when making policy, Ravi said he’s working to make sure B.C.’s growing South Asian population is kept in mind during the planning process.
