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On December 13, 2024, representatives of Alberta’s Indian and Hindu community met with the Honorable Deputy Prime Minister Mike Ellis and the Honorable Minister Muhammad Yassin at the MacDougall Center in Calgary to discuss serious concerns affecting their community. Bruce, the Premier’s Chief of Staff, and Jonathan, the Deputy Premier’s Chief of Staff, were also present at the meeting. Emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to engaging with diverse communities.
Features of the meeting:
Deputy Prime Minister Mike Ellis shared updates on various initiatives aimed at improving public safety and reducing crime in Alberta. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the enactment of such federal laws, while also acknowledging that Bill C-75 has contributed to an increase in criminal activity. Minister Ellis assured attendees of ongoing efforts and an additional 50 police officers in Calgary and Edmonton to increase community safety.
The community leaders, led by Gotham Sevada, stressed the important role played by the Hindu community in the 2023 provincial elections. Representing 3% of Alberta’s population, this group was instrumental in winning several close contests for the United Conservative Party.
Manish Mishra addressed growing concerns about crime and safety, including the rise in hate crimes targeting Hindu communities. It highlighted specific incidents of hate speech, vandalism of places of worship and public demonstrations involving weapons. Mishra called for legal action against hatred, crime, strict law enforcement, increased security of temples and “Hinduphobia”.
Government reactions and proposed measures:
- Grants for Security: Minister Yassin outlined anti-racism, ethno-cultural and ACIR infrastructure grants available to religious and cultural institutions to help enhance security.
- Improving reporting mechanisms: Deputy Prime Minister Ellis encouraged the community to report hate incidents to police and escalate unresolved cases to the Independent Police Complaint Review Board.
- Advocating for harsher penalties: Ellis acknowledged the limitations imposed by federal laws and encouraged advocacy for legislative reform.
- Single point of contact: Jonathan, Chief of Staff to the Deputy Premier, was appointed as the community’s point of contact to ensure smooth communication with the government.
Minister Ellis and Minister Yassin emphasized their commitment to building a safer and more inclusive Alberta. He urged the community to collaborate with Calgary Police and the provincial government on actionable steps, including public education on hate speech and promoting faith-based harmony.
Next Steps:
- The community will connect with Calgary Police and a designated liaison officer to address local safety concerns.
- Continued dialogue with the provincial government will focus on legislative and administrative solutions to combat hate crimes and promote multicultural inclusion.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to promoting safety and mutual respect among Alberta’s diverse communities.