Is there a lot of racism in Nanaimo, British Columbia?

Answer 1

I don't think there's a lot. There is some, just like anywhere, but I don't think it's excessive. Mainly I think it's against native people and probably East Indians. But it's not like you hear it walking down the street during the daytime.

Answer 2

There are some parts of Surrey that are pretty rough and there definitely are some groups out there who will give people a hard time. I've seen it firsthand too a few times and it does happen here. I think this is a defencive thing or something - sort of a perceived "us VS them" mindset. I'd suggest looking around at school to see if there are any Indian kids who you can become friends with. Get comfortable and familiar with the culture and try to be part of the group in a sense. (Not the groups that beat on people but part of the community.) My husband and I did this and we're frequently the only white people at Indian events. We get funny looks at first and people usually think that we're caterers or photographers or something at first but then they think it's great that we're joining in with them instead of always expecting them to join in with us. All that being said though, Surry is pretty different from some of the other areas here and there is generally a tougher crowd there. If you are genuinely concerned for your safety then keep your head down, graduate and move to a better neighbourhood as soon as you can.