Mission had its first ‘Day of Action Against Anti-Asian Racism’ yesterday, and a small rally took place along Lougheed Highway.
The District of Mission made an official proclamation on May 10, in an effort to raise awareness about the massive spike in hate crimes against Asian peoples.
“This was a unified event across the country and it was great to see Mission participating,” Coun. Ken Herar posted on social media. “It’s all about people helping people.”
— Patrick Penner (@portmoodypigeon) May 11, 2021
Herar was recently contacted by Doris Mah of Stand With Asians Coalition (SWAC) about organizing the local event, which took place in unison with other rallies across B.C. and Canada.
Hate crimes targeting Asian peoples in Vancouver have increased over 700 per cent; in Ottawa, over 600 per cent; and in Burnaby, over 350 per cent, according to police statistics.
Over a dozen other Canadian cities have made, or said they plan to make, similar proclamations as Mission’s.