Violent Attack, New Report Highlight Need For Action On Hate Crimes, Says NDP
VANCOUVER – On the heels of a violent attack on a gay couple, new Statistics Canada figures showing a major increase of reported hate crimes in Vancouver and Victoria are proof that B.C. government action against hate crimes is long overdue, the New Democrats say.
Mike Farnworth
“Even one hate crime is one too many. We must send a clear message that hatred has no place in our society. Everyone should feel safe in their community, whatever their sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, ability, or gender. The B.C. Liberal government has done very little to curb hate-fuelled violence in our province, and action is overdue,” said New Democrat Solicitor General critic Mike Farnworth.
Statistics Canada numbers released Monday show that hate crimes in Vancouver increased 81 per cent, from 79 incidents in 2007 to 143 in 2008. In Victoria, the incidents increased from 3 to 11 between 2007 and 2008. Of the 143 incidents in Vancouver in 2008, 40 were based on religion, 61 were race or ethnicity-based hate crimes, and 34 were hate crimes based on sexual orientation.
Farnworth noted that whether the increased figures are due to an increase in attacks or simply improved police reporting, the figures are troubling.
“These numbers are a wakeup call for anyone who thinks that this sort of thing doesn’t happen very often or doesn’t happen in B.C.,” said Farnworth, MLA for Port Coquitlam. “Hate-based violence is a serious issue for B.C., and one that demands action from government.
Farnworth said Saturday’s attack of two gay men who live near GM Place is a reminder of just how vicious hate crimes are.
“It is time to look at existing legislation, enforcement and education policies to see where there is room for improvement,” said Farnworth.
Carole James and New Democrats are working with British Columbians from all walks of life, all corners of B.C., and all sectors of our economy to build a better British Columbia for the people of this province.
