The provincial government is increasing funding for the Alberta Security Infrastructure Program (ASIP) to $5 million to help protect places of worship, not-for-profit agencies, registered charities and other organizations and individuals targeted by hate crimes.
In a press conference Sunday (March 13), Premier Jason Kenney said the new funding, an increase of $3 million over last year, will help groups apply for grants for security and technology improvements.
“Public safety is a public responsibility,” said Kenney. “And we have a particular responsibility to ensure that safety of vulnerable communities that are targeted by hate-inspired violence.
“While it saddens me that many religious and ethnic organizations and Indigenous groups need this protection, I am proud of this government’s commitment to helping keep them safe. Our province continues to stand against hate and violence, alongside those targeted by these terrible crimes.”
Last year more than a dozen Alberta churches were targeted for violence, including in some cases by arson, he said.
Sunday’s press conference took place at the Calgary Vietnamese Alliance Church, which was the target of an arsonist last summer.
“Our church knows the pain of being targeted by hate crimes,” said pastor Thai Nguyen. “The protections these grants make available can make a real difference in churches and local groups like ours.”
Protection measures being funded through the program include fencing and electronic security measures.
Tyler Shandro, minister of justice and solicitor general, said the new funding for ASIP is needed to meet growing demand.
“While we wish the need for this program didn’t exist, we are pleased to make this money available to the groups that need it,” said Shandro. “Our commitment is to stand up to intolerance, to keep all Albertans safe, and to forcefully prosecute hate crimes. As we increase this funding, we continue to work with vulnerable groups to fight hate crime and provide all Albertans with the best opportunity to succeed and reach their full potential.”
