Edmonton’s Mayor Amarjeet Sohi is facing backlash after investing $480k to make Chinatown more “inclusive” despite the fact that residents just want the area to be safe.
Sohi announced the investment for Chinatown’s “Vibrancy Fund” Tuesday on X saying he wants to create a more “welcoming and inclusive” community.
Applicants wishing to receive grant money for the project will be evaluated based on various criteria, one being their “equity lens.”
The evaluation checklist includes how “diverse” their business or organization is, and how their project applies a “Gender-Based Analysis” (GBA+.)
“(GBA+) is a method that helps us assess inequality and identify who is being left behind when doing a project,” the program guide explains. “It helps us understand who may be EXCLUDED from the project and it will help to identify unintentional consequences of inequality.”
Examples of projects include “community-led initiatives that enhance social cohesion and cultural preservation such as events, festivals, and cultural activities.”
Moreover, the application guidelines explicitly state that projects solely related with “safety and security” are not eligible for funding.
One social media user commented under Sohi’s X post, saying “painting rainbows on the road will not improve the area, hiring police would.”
Another said, “spend that $480K on getting rid of fentanyl addicts so residents can walk down the streets without fear of being attacked?”
Safety concerns in Chinatown
Edmonton’s Chinatown has consistently been one of the highest for crime and disorder-related calls to the Edmonton Police Service.
Wen Wong, the executive director of the Chinatown and Area Business Association, recently surveyed community members’ thoughts on the safety concerns in the area.
“Close to 100 percent said Chinatown is extremely dangerous, especially at nighttime,” said Wong.
Employees working in Chinatown say they’re scared of what could happen to them when finishing their shift and walking to their car.
Volunteers collect nearly 300 needles a month in the neighborhood which is located in close proximity to Edmonton’s safe drug consumption sites.
