Premier John Horgan released the following statement about a rally by hate groups taking place on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2017 in Vancouver:

“Hate has no place in our province. We reject all forms of racism, discrimination, intolerance and bigotry.

“Recent events and images from Charlottesville, Virginia were horrifying, and hateful rhetoric is on the rise worldwide. While many British Columbians want to believe such brazen acts of hatred could not happen here, the reality is that hate groups also organize and operate in Canada.

“When these forces rise up, we must stand united and denounce them in the strongest possible terms. We reject the values and beliefs of those groups which participate in, and advocate for, hate speech. They have no place in a tolerant and inclusive society.

“When we are confronted by hate, we all have a responsibility to take action. We will continue to stand up for the values shared by the vast majority of British Columbians: equality, inclusiveness and unity.

“To those who are participating in anti-racism counter-events in Vancouver and across the province, we support you and wish you a safe and peaceful demonstration.”