Montreal’s Chinatown community held a press conference on May 2, where organizations, businesses, residents, and daycare centers issued a warning about the resurgence of community safety issues caused by homeless individuals. They urged all levels of government to prioritize public safety in the community.
According to community members, there are signs showing an increasing number of homeless individuals returning to Chinatown, many of whom suffer from addiction and mental health issues. This has led to a rise in criminal activities such as drug trafficking, drug use, assaults, property damage, and intimidation within the community.
Bryant Chang from the Montreal Chinese Community and Cultural Center mentioned, “Last November, after the closure of the Guy-Favreau shelter, we noticed a decrease in homeless individuals around Chinatown. However, about two months ago, everything started again. So far, we have noticed a more violent group of homeless individuals.”
He pointed out that in a specific alley in Chinatown, various illegal activities are taking place, including drug dealing, drug use, and illegal sexual activities, emphasizing that the situation is spiraling out of control.
Community members are concerned that with the arrival of spring and summer, the crime and disturbances in Chinatown will worsen. Bill Wong, the Executive Director of the Chinatown Economic Development Committee, expressed that this situation will deter tourists, making Chinatown less appealing as a destination.
A teacher from a daycare center next to the convention center mentioned that due to the increasing harassment by homeless individuals, teachers feel pressured and anxious, refraining from taking children out for walks.
Participants at the conference called for intervention from all levels of government to prioritize the safety and health of community residents.
“We hope to prevent crime before it gets out of control. Elected officials should prioritize public safety in Chinatown because it concerns the safety of residents, workers, businesses, and tourists. The era of being soft on crime has come to an end,” Chang stated.
During the press conference, six measures were proposed, including increasing police presence, adopting a zero-tolerance policy towards drug trafficking and drug use, improving community lighting, ceasing the distribution of food to homeless individuals in front of the federal buildings and the Chinese church, participating in the federal at-risk community program, and receiving funding from the federal crime prevention program.