Statement by Premier Dennis King

Hon. Dennis King, Premier of Prince Edward Island issued the following statement on the events that occurred in the Evangeline region this past weekend:  

“The news of the events that transpired in the Evangeline region this past weekend are deeply troubling and concerning.  This is not acceptable and will not be tolerated in our province. 

A weekend that was intended to be full of celebrating our Island's diversity and vibrancy of the Acadian and Francophone community has now been tarnished after an act of racism and hate.   No matter how you identify, who you love, who you worship, what color your skin is, where you are born, or what language you speak – everyone in this province has the right to celebrate who they are and who they desire to be.  

I’m calling on all Islanders to condemn these acts of violence and hate and speak out when these acts occur.   Intolerance and discrimination have no place in our province.  As a government, we will continue to find ways to ensure such incidents are mitigated and people who continue to perpetuate hate are held accountable.

I would encourage anyone who witnessed the event or knows information about what occurred to reach out to the RCMP to assist them in their investigation.  

My heart goes out to the victims, their friends, their families, their loved ones, and the broader community who are impacted by learning of this event.   I wish them the best on their path to recovery and healing from this traumatic event.   I have only known the Evangeline region to be warm, welcoming, and accepting and I know the community will love and support you during this difficult time.”

 
Media contact:
Adam Ross
Office of the Premier 
adamross@gov.pe.ca