BC Gov News
Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General –
“Spaces where communities come together should always be safe, and our government is committed to ensuring no one lives in fear because of who they are. Through the Civil Forfeiture Grant program, we are providing funding to support the security infrastructure of community spaces at risk of hate-motivated incidents. The bills announced today expand on this commitment and further our work to make British Columbia safe and welcoming to all.”
Hardip Singh Sahota, treasurer, Khalsa Diwan Society Vancouver and Victoria –
“In the past year, gurdwaras in B.C. have faced incidents that unsettled congregants and raised questions about safety when entering these sacred spaces. The introduction of legislation to ensure secure, unobstructed access is an encouraging sign that these concerns are being taken seriously. When people can walk through the doors without worry, it strengthens the sense of community, service and belonging in our province.”
Andrew Rosenblatt, rabbi, Congregation Schara Tzedeck –
“We thank the B.C. government for introducing this legislation. This is but one of many needed measures to give the Jewish community the confidence to gather safely in places of worship.”
Ebrahim Abdelmaqsoud, imam, Victoria Masjid –
“Our community has experienced situations when threatening behaviour around mosques has unsettled people arriving for prayer. Introducing clear access measures can ease those tensions by providing a steady, predictable environment for those who gather regularly. With these steps in place, worshippers can participate in prayer, reflection and community life with greater comfort and a renewed sense of personal security.”
Dr. Preeti Misra, secretary, Hindu Temple Burnaby –
“We appreciate the Province for bringing forward this bill to safeguard access to temples and other places of worship. In recent months, vandalism and agitation near certain temples have weighed on devotees and families who simply wish to pray and participate in cultural life. These new safeguards help create a calmer environment at the mandir, encouraging fuller participation in the festivals, teachings and community activities that keep our traditions vibrant.”
Rev. Dan Chambers, co-lead minister, St. Andrew’s-Wesley, Vancouver –
“People come to places of worship for guidance, solace in times of difficulty and connection to community. Disruption outside interferes with worship and communal gatherings inside. The measures proposed today provide clarity on safe access and help protect the integrity of services and community programs. With these measures, congregations can remain focused on the spiritual and communal practices that sustain them.”
Tracy Loffler, president, British Columbia School Trustees Association –
“The British Columbia School Trustees Association has long urged the provincial government to protect students, staff and boards from disruptions near schools. We are relieved to see exclusion zones around school sites extended. This is an important step toward ensuring students feel safe and boards can govern without interruption. Safe, inclusive schools are essential to student success, and we appreciate the government for acting on the concerns of boards and school communities across the province.”
Kendra Mann, president of the BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils (BCCPAC) –
“The BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils (BCCPAC) welcomes the extension of the SASA program beyond July 1 and the stability it provides for students and families. Students across the province have spoken clearly about how important it is to protect their education, and their voices deserve to be heard. Ensuring continued support helps safeguard students’ ability to learn, succeed and focus on their future.”
Carole Gordon, president, BC Teachers’ Federation –
“When students and staff walk through the doors of a school, they deserve to feel safe and supported to be themselves. Exclusion zones have provided a buffer from harmful bullying and targeted harassment. I’m pleased to see schools protected as spaces of belonging and inclusion for all students, and for the incredible teachers who help them thrive every day.”
Mark Pearmain, superintendent/CEO, Surrey Schools –
“The proposed extension of the Safe Access to Schools Act is welcome news. As a superintendent, I have seen firsthand how disruptive protests outside our schools can impact the learning environment and the emotional well-being of our students and staff. The extension to maintain the 20-metre zone will help protect both.”