'Treat each other with respect,' say those at Abbotsford rally to denounce KKK propaganda
Dozens of residents in Abbotsford, B.C. spoke passionately at a local Gurdwara Sunday afternoon to denounce racist literature that's been distributed in their community.
"Incitement, hatred should never be accepted or tolerated," said Shai Mor, who attended the rally at the Gur Sikh Temple on South Fraser Way.
Earlier this month, plastic bags containing Ku Klux Klan literature were distributed to homes in east Abbotsford, marking the second time in the last three months that racist pamphlets were disseminated in the Fraser Valley.
About 70 pamphlets were dropped off in driveways in the 35200 block of Marshall Road.
In October, similar materials were also discovered in Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Mission.
The Abbotsford Police Department is investigating and the B.C. Hate Crime Team has been contacted.
RCMP are also investigating a separate incident in Richmond in November when someone distributed anti-Chinese flyers.
"It sinks my heart every time I see an evidence of racism or bigotry," said Fauzia Rafique who attended the rally.
Rafique said it was uplifting to see so many people from different backgrounds come together to speak out against hatred.
"It's incredible to be with other people who think similar to you, it gives tremendous strength," she said.
"It was a lot of power in that room."
Organizers say they plan to hold more rallies.
with files fromKamil Karamali.
