Dear Editor,
Re: “Councillor: Racist grafitti a sign of building racial tension,” News, July 21.
How unfortunate that our Richmond has been marred by racist graffiti.
Although the graffiti was ill-conceived, one might ask, was it an expression of frustration, perhaps anger, perhaps lack of a voice being heard, perhaps very different cultural values, perhaps ignorance?
Coun. Chak Au stated he is disappointed, as all of us should be.
Richmond, once touted as an admirable example of a multicultural harmonious city, has evolved into fragmented, ethnic enclaves and has seen the exodus of approx. 28,000 Caucasian residents (as per Statistics Canada 2011) and counting.
The responsibility lies with all of us to make an effort to welcome the newcomers, but equally as important is the responsibility of the new immigrants to integrate into our community — extend themselves by learning and speaking English, thus not alienating others.
Also, by being sensitive to and considerate of established neighbourhoods and neighbours in spite of proclamations of freedom.
Those were understood expectations once upon a time. It is a very sad statement that now every time a “for sale” sign appears in our neighbourhood, one gets a sick feeling in the pit of the stomach that another perfectly livable house is slated for the dump.
Hardly a sensation that promotes social well-being and community building, in spite of the “boost” to our economy.
Surely there are deeper concerns than just the percentage contribution to the GDP.
By thoughtful policy and planning. there are more responsible ways of doing business in the context of bridging the cultural divide.
N. McDonald
Richmond
