Yesterday, I attended the Hamilton Police Service Board meeting, where the 2025 Hate/Bias Statistical Report and the new 2026 – 2030 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy were presented.
The numbers are deeply concerning: 332 hate/bias occurrences were reported in 2025 – an 11.8% increase from 2024. Racial bias was the most frequently recorded category, followed by religious bias and gender identity/expression and sexual-orientation bias. The report also acknowledges that hate-motivated incidents are underreported and that negative experiences with police or the justice system can prevent victims from coming forward.
The new EDI strategy promises a shift from awareness and infrastructure toward integration and accountability. That must mean more than another plan on paper. It requires measurable outcomes, clear timelines, transparent public reporting, meaningful community participation, and accountability when commitments are not met.
As a mayoral candidate, I believe public safety cannot be separated from trust, equity, prevention, and strong civilian oversight. Communities most affected by hate must have a meaningful role in shaping the policies and responses intended to protect them.
Every Hamiltonian deserves to feel safe, heard, respected, and able to report hate without fear of dismissal or further harm. @HamiltonPoliceOntario@CityofHamilton