B.C.’s premier concerned with an increase in racist attacks

B.C. Premier David Eby voiced his concerns on Wednesday over the increase in British Columbians being targeted because of their race or religion.

Eby offered his thoughts on this issue following a pair of incidents Tuesday night that saw Prime Minister Justin Trudeau targeted by protestors while he was eating out in Vancouver.

Eby says public officials deserve to have their privacy, but his biggest worry is the increase in people feeling scared walking the street wearing a kippah or yarmulke, or other religious clothing like hijabs or burkas.

He also adds that he hopes women can feel safe in politics, as there has been a spike in female politicians being attacked online.

“As concerned as I am with those issues, today regular British Columbians walking down the street being who they are do not feel safe and that is not acceptable,” said Eby.

Eby also added on Wednesday that the province is working to combat hate-motivated violence by offering more community support.

He says that a new specific anti-hate community support fund will be offered for the organization in addition to a racist incident helpline

The chair of B.C.’s Anti-Racism Data Committee says that the helpline is not affiliated with the police and will be an important option for people reluctant to report hateful acts to law enforcement. It will also be offered in multiple languages.

“Our government is taking action to keep people safe and protect the places that provide comfort and connection for so many of us.”