An investigation has been launched by the police into a poster that invited “proud parents of European children” to participate in racially segregated playtime in the Lower Mainland area of British Columbia (B.C.), Canada.
The controversial invitation advertised “whites-only” gatherings for mothers in the Tri-Cities of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody, specifically targeting those “looking for somewhere your children can play with others that look like them.”
The poster came to public attention when an image of it was shared on the Instagram account Black Vancouver, revealing that it was displayed at a bus stop in Port Coquitlam. The discovery prompted widespread outrage, including a statement from Mayor Brad West, who denounced the message as “vile garbage” and stressed that it was not welcome in their community. Mayor West emphasized the city’s commitment to fostering diversity and unity while dismantling barriers.
Bylaw officers were dispatched to remove the poster after learning of its presence, but they were unable to locate it. Mayor West speculated that it might have been taken down by a concerned member of the community.
Vancouver South MP Harjit Sajjan also expressed his dismay on social media, describing the poster as “deeply disturbing” and emphasizing Canada’s welcoming and diverse ethos. He found it disheartening that children were being exposed to messages of racism and discrimination.
The origins of the invitation remain unclear, and the URL provided on the poster directs to a private messaging group on the Telegram app.
In response to the incident, Coquitlam RCMP issued a statement confirming that officers are investigating reports of “suspicious signs” in both Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam to determine if any criminal activity is involved.
Anyone with information regarding the poster is encouraged to contact the Coquitlam RCMP detachment at 604-945-1550.
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