RICHMOND (March 21, 2023) – Richmond North Centre MLA Teresa Wat, BC Liberal Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, Anti-Racism Initiatives, Arts and Culture, released the following statement to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:
“On behalf of the Official Opposition, I reaffirm our commitment to eliminating all forms of racial discrimination and hate today on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
“We have made significant progress as a society and province in the battle against racial injustice, yet, ongoing societal issues still show that elements of racial discrimination are present to this day. Three years after the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Metro Vancouver continues to face some of the highest rates of anti-Asian hate crimes in North America, and racially-driven hate crimes from across the province showcase that there’s a lot more work that needs to be done.
“We all have a role to play in building a society of inclusion and tolerance, where respect for each other is a fundamental and expected element of humanity. British Columbia has long embraced everyone, regardless of ethnic or racial makeup, and we must continue to act in a way that sets an example for all to follow.
“Today, we remember all those that have been victims of racially-driven hatred and discrimination on this International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Everyone, no matter where they are from, has the right to feel safe, accepted, and respected.”
