Rallies to take a stand against anti-Asian sentiments in Metro Vancouver were held outside of two Tri-City SkyTrain stations today (Monday).
Activists holding signs to alert commuters about the National Day of Action Against Anti-Asian Racism were at the Lincoln and the Inlet Centre stations.
Among the supporters waving to the honking motorists at the Port Moody station was Gina Chong, who was confronted at Town Centre Park last month.
Chong was at the Coquitlam park with a friend when a woman lashed out after Chong declined to take her photo because of physical distancing restrictions. In response, the woman clapped back, “You know this COVID is all because of you. You need to go back China.”
“I feel like, after the incident, I have been given the opportunity to speak out about Asian hate,” Chong told the Tri-City News on Monday. “When the incident happened, I was just inundated with stories from friends and strangers. It really opened my eyes to all the stories not being told in my community. No one ever talks about it.”
Chong added, “I’m here to support and be the voice for those who don’t have a voice.”
The Inlet Centre protest was also attended by Port Coquitlam Coun. Laura Dupont while the Lincoln station rally included Coquitlam Coun. Bonita Zarrillo — both federal NDP candidates in the yet-to-be-announced election.
As well, Port Coquitlam Coun. Nancy McCurrach and NDP MLA Fin Donnelly (Coquitlam-Burke Mountain) attended at Lincoln station.
In total, 13 rallies were held in the Lower Mainland for the inaugural Day of Action.
