Cyclists with a mission to "talk to all kids about diversity" made a stop at White Rock City Hall last month.
For the Cycling4Diversity team, led by Ken Herar, it was the last stop on Day 3 of a four-day trek to spread the message.
Launched five years ago, after Herar was denied entry to a Christmas party because he was South Asian, the message has been shared at about 100 schools so far – 16 in 11 cities this year alone.
In welcoming the team, Mayor Wayne Baldwin expressed appreciation for their efforts to discuss cultural diversity, encourage inclusion and "expand circles of friendship."
Baldwin also shared a diversity experience of his own, talking about growing up in Kitimat after the war. People came from around the world to work there, he said.
"My friends growing up were a mixed bag, to say the least," Baldwin told the cyclists.
"We all forgot the stuff that happened during the war. We all became friends and just forgot about all that crap.
"That's what kids do when given an opportunity."
Anne-Marie Sjoden, executive director of Cycling4Diversity, said the movement is becoming known worldwide.
Participant Roy McBeth, a detective with the Abbotsford Police Department, described the ride as "very eye-opening… and somewhat emotional."
He joined in the hopes of raising awareness of the importance of organ donation, including the under-representation in different races of those willing to donate.
The ride finished in Abbotsford on May 22.
For more information, visit cycling4diversity.ca