| There have been recent media reports of Chief McFee’s comments about the rally at the Alberta legislature. For clarity, here are the Chief’s comments from our media availability earlier today.
The Edmonton Police Service denounces tiki torches. The presence of these symbols used in our city is concerning. There is no room for racism or bigotry in Edmonton. We understand the impact these symbols do have on our racialized community. While people may feel intervention is required in emotionally charged situations, police are required to have lawful authority to intervene.
At public events such as protests, it is the role of the Edmonton Police Service to ensure the safety of all participants. In Canada, all people have the right to peaceful assembly and all participants are allowed to express their views and actions within the law.
When discussions like these occur, we understand that context matters. We feel it is important that the Chief’s comments are clear. We encourage you to view the below video where the Chief provides context around the legal threshold for charging for a hate crime.
If you have any information regarding the rally at the legislature that may be important for police, please call the EPS complaint line at 780-423-4567.
Chief McFee strongly believes there is no place for racism in Edmonton and understands that racism is concerning for all Edmontonians, especially racialized Edmontonians. Because of the importance of this issue, Sgt. Gary Willits from our Hate Crimes & Violent Extremism Unit will answer questions and provide clarity to the community about the role police play in these types of events tomorrow at 10 a.m. on Facebook Live.
Video link: https://vimeo.com/518818588 |
Black Youth Mentorship Program Update March 2021
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