Stop Anti-Asian Hate Crimes Advocacy Group is deeply disturbed by the recent racist incident at a café in North Vancouver. Any form of racism, hate speech, intimidation, or ethnically targeted harassment is unacceptable and stands against the core Canadian values of diversity, inclusion, mutual respect, and equality.
It is particularly painful and troubling that this incident occurred during Asian Heritage Month — a time intended to recognize the contributions, history, and experiences of Asian Canadians. The fact that anti-Asian racism continues to occur during such a month is a stark reminder that Canada still has a long way to go in fostering mutual understanding between communities and confronting the legacy and persistence of white supremacy and racial prejudice.
We strongly condemn the use of hateful language directed toward members of the Asian community, including phrases such as “go back to your country.” Such rhetoric is harmful not only to the individuals targeted, but also to the broader social fabric of our communities. It fosters fear, division, exclusion, and hostility at a time when Canadians should be standing together.
Asian Canadians are an inseparable part of Canada. We live here, work here, raise our families here, contribute to our communities, and help build this country alongside all Canadians. No person should ever be subjected to discrimination, humiliation, or intimidation because of their ethnicity, language, culture, or appearance.
We also call on all Canadians to remain vigilant against the growing normalization of hate speech and racial hostility. Silence in the face of racism only allows prejudice and division to spread further. Canada’s strength has always come from mutual respect, shared dignity, and the ability of people from different backgrounds to live together in peace.
At a time of growing social tension and polarization around the world, it is more important than ever that Canadians reject hatred and stand united against racism in all its forms.
We call upon community leaders, public figures, media organizations, and all members of society to promote civility, empathy, and solidarity, and to ensure that minority communities feel safe, respected, and fully included in Canadian society.
Hate does not represent Canada. Unity, compassion, and mutual respect do.
Signed,
Ivan Pak, Dr. Ally Wang
Co-founders,
Stop Anti-Asian Hate Crimes Advocacy Group