Dear Editor,
I read with disappointment that MLA Teresa Wat stated in the legislature that “nobody feels safe in Richmond,” and thus blaming it on people who are unhoused.
These comments are not only harmful to people’s perception of those who are currently houseless, it is also desperate and unhelpful fear mongering for political gain.
Our family loves Richmond and feels grateful that we live in such a caring and safe city. Wherever we travel, we are reminded how lucky we are to live where we live.
I am heartened by the sense of community that I witness daily, whether it is those who organize community meals or events where all are truly welcome, those who donate to our local food bank, those who fill our community cupboards, those who write letters to support affordable rental housing for women and seniors, or those who donate cookies and goods to the residents of our local Temporary Modular Housing.
We build safety nets for everyone when we build community.
It is unfortunate that Wat’s party did not do more to address the housing crisis when they were in power. It has been a crisis years in the making, long before the BC NDP came to power.
As a resident who has advocated for affordable rental housing, I have seen progress with our current government to try and attempt to change the status quo.
I would encourage Wat to stop being part of the problem, and instead focus on being part of the solution.
Michelle Li
Richmond
