Renewed support to combat hate

By:Ralph Goodale Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness In recent weeks Canadians witnessed a series of ugly racist and hateful acts in Ottawa, Toronto, Regina and elsewhere. These incidents were a jarring reminder that the inclusive and generous Canada we all want is now, and ever will be, a precious and delicate work-in-progress that we dare not take for granted. The Government of Canada is determined to do more to bolster Canadians’ instinct to condemn intolerance and to stand with those who have been victimized, or who worry they may be next. That’s why we’re renewing the Security Infrastructure Program (SIP) to make it more responsive to the needs of communities. This program provides funds for security enhancements to places of worship, recognized schools and community centres linked to a community at risk of hatemotivated crimes. SIP helps eligible not-for-profit organizations prevent these crimes or catch those responsible. It funds up to half the cost of security projects²like lighting, fencing, cameras and alarms²up to a maximum of $100,000. We have broadened it to include all those at risk, not just those who have suffered an attack. Its application process has been streamlined and broadened to fund more improvements, such as interior security systems. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has long championed the point that Canada is strong and successful not in spite of our differences, but precisely because of them. There is no social licence for hate, not in Canada. SIP is an important initiative to help protect all Canadians’ right to be free to practice their faith and culture without fear. Together we are taking action to forge the fair and decent country we aspire to be.