With a rally by hate groups to take place in Vancouver on Saturday Premier John Horgan released a statement denouncing all forms of racism, discrimination, intolerance and bigotry, saying hate has no place in our province.
Horgan says while many British Columbians want to believe such brazen acts of hatred could not happen here, the reality is that hate groups also organize and operate in Canada, adding recent events and images from Charlottesville, Virginia were horrifying, and hateful rhetoric is on the rise worldwide.
"When these forces rise up, we must stand united and denounce them in the strongest possible terms. We reject the values and beliefs of those groups which participate in, and advocate for, hate speech. They have no place in a tolerant and inclusive society. When we are confronted by hate, we all have a responsibility to take action. We will continue to stand up for the values shared by the vast majority of British Columbians: equality, inclusiveness and unity."
The premier sends his support to those planning to stage counter-racism events in Vancouver and across the province, wishing them a safe and peaceful demonstration.