Hate crimes on the rise in Halifax according to data – Halifax [Video]

Vandalism, assaults and threats are on the rise in Halifax, according to police.

Hate crimes were an issue first identified as a growing problem that needed addressing in 2022.

Halifax Regional Police (HRP) and RCMP have been working together since then with communities that are directly impacted. The issue was discussed with Halifax’s board of police commissioners on May 21.

“It was really fascinating talking to all these different communities about the various things affecting their comfort and their ability to share this information with police,” said Madeleine Goldsmith, HRP diversity officer.

Police say it’s difficult getting people to report these incidents.

“The more we can encourage people to come forward and report them, I think a better situation that will actually be,” said HRP Chief Don MacLean.

Only seven hate crimes were reported in 2014 in the municipality, with the number in 2023 jumping to 121.

People of colour, …