The vast majority of Albertans, including in this region, rightly pride themselves on showing tolerance and understanding of their fellow citizens, treating everyone with the respect they deserve.
Unfortunately, a recent spike in hate crimes in the province highlights the need for change and for a tougher response to the problem.
Whether the newly-elected Danielle Smith UCP government is prepared to take the lead in fighting the intolerance that has gained a foothold in the province remains an open question.
What is known is that Albertans expect more, much more, to be done to make the promoters and advocates of hate feel wholly unwelcome in rural and urban communities, large and small.
In response to the several recent hate-related incidents, including anti-inclusion incidents at public libraries, the RCMP issued an extraordinary statement last week calling for residents to help address the problem.
“The Alberta RCMP is emphasizing the importance of Albertans reporting any actions, language or behaviour they suspect to be a hate crime or incident to police,” officials said.
“We take any action that threatens the safety and security of others extremely seriously. To be clear, the RCMP will follow up on all reports and if appropriate, charges will be laid.”
Hate incidents and hate crimes are actions committed against persons or property that are motivated by bias, prejudice or hate towards an identifiable group or community, including as it relates to sexual orientation and/or gender identity or expression.
Those crimes can range from physical assaults, threats of violence, property damage, harassment and discriminatory comments.
“Reporting these incidents sends an important message that these acts will not be tolerated in our communities,” officials said.
The Alberta RCMP should be applauded for taking the lead in the fight against intolerance in this province.
At the same time, the question remains: With the broad powers at its disposal, is the Danielle Smith government doing enough to ensure those who spread hate in Alberta are made to seriously regret their actions?
- Dan Singleton is an editor with the Albertan
