Fort St. John is grappling with an incident of racist vandalism that has sparked outrage and condemnation from both community leaders and residents. The city’s mayor, Lilia Hansen, denounced the act as “unacceptable,” emphasizing that such actions threaten to divide the community and undermine efforts to strengthen relationships with Indigenous groups.
“There is no place for hate in our city,” Hansen stated. “These actions seek to divide us, incite fear and negate the progress we have made in building relationships with Indigenous communities.”
The incident has also drawn a strong response from Indigenous voices, including prominent advocate Greyeyes, who urged people to take a stand against racism in all its forms.
“This is what happens when we become complacent with racism,” Greyeyes wrote. “Allowing people in our lives to get away with small bits of racism because they are family or friends. Time to stand up and call these losers out.”
The Fort St. John RCMP has confirmed that the vandalism is being investigated as a hate crime. Authorities are calling on anyone with information or surveillance footage to come forward to assist in identifying those responsible.
As the investigation continues, community leaders and residents are reaffirming their commitment to rejecting hate and promoting inclusivity in Fort St. John.