Anti-Asian hate crimes are up 717% in Vancouver. Unfortunately, many hate crimes go unreported, so this figure may be higher than stated.
It is up to all of us to eliminate hate crimes, racism and discrimination. There is no place for it.
If You Witness Hate:
- Assess your safety FIRST: Is it safe for you to say or do something? Your safety is key to be a good witness.
- Focus on the victim: IF IT IS SAFE, engage the victim in conversation, ask if they are okay or if they would like some assistance. This will let the perpetrator know that the victim is not alone.
- Engage others: IF IT IS SAFE, engage other witnesses. Talk to others in the space to gather support for the victim. There is power in numbers.
- Document: IF IT IS SAFE, document the incident by taking a photo or video of the incident or making notes. Keep a safe distance and note the time, day and location. Always ask the victim what they want to do with the photo or video and don’t post it online without their permission.
- When it is safe: Ask the victim if they would like assistance to report the incident to police or connect with Victim Link.
If You Experience Hate:
- Ask for help. If you are in a public place and are being verbally or physically attacked, let others close by know you need help.
- Document: If it is safe, make a record of the incident by taking a photo or video of the perpetrator or the incident, or ask someone to do this for you. Note the time, day and location.
- Report it.
- Find Support: Contact Victim Link for confidential, multilingual crisis support and information and referrals.
The above steps are from Hate Crimes in BC.
Further Resources:
Chinese Canadian Historical Society of BC Resources
UBC Department of Asian Studies Resources
Last Updated: 18-Mar-2021