The Editor,
The cries of racism regarding the proposed shark fin ban are all from those who profit from the horrendous, ecocidal and in fact illegal shark fin trade.
Two of the proponents of the ban, Dr. Kerry Jang of the Vancouver City Council and myself of Heal Our Planet Earth (HOPE), are Chinese Canadians.
Ecologically speaking, sharks prey on medium-sized fish, which in turn prey on small fish. If sharks are wiped out, the medium-sized fish will proliferate out of control and wipe out the small fish, and the oceanic ecosystem will collapse.
Legally speaking, both international law (CITES) and Canadian law (WAPPRIITA) forbid the trade of endangered species products. Over 50 species of sharks are endangered, and their fins are all over local shops and seafood restaurants.
Richmond right now is in fact violating these laws by allowing shark fins to be served and sold.
Anthony Marr Vancouver
