RCMP Probe Disturbing Letters Sent to B.C. Teachers Amid Vandalism Incident

The RCMP has launched an investigation after several elementary school teachers and staff in Vanderhoof, B.C., received disturbing letters earlier this month. Police opened the case on Nov. 4 at Evelyn Dickson Elementary School but have not shared the specific contents of the letters, citing the ongoing investigation.

The letters arrived shortly after an act of vandalism targeting a rainbow crosswalk in the same community. Although officials have not confirmed a link between the incidents, Vanderhoof Mayor Kevin Moutray expressed deep disappointment over both events, calling the messages uncharacteristic of the town's values.

“This is not Vanderhoof. We are not hate,” Moutray said, emphasizing the harm such acts can inflict on a small community.

School District 81 board chair David Christie also condemned the letters, labeling intimidation and harassment as “unacceptable behaviors.” His statement, co-signed by representatives of teachers’ and support staff unions, highlighted the B.C. Human Rights Code, which protects against discrimination.

The Oct. 19 vandalism of the rainbow crosswalk included spray-painted messages like “Speak Truth” and “Save the Kids.” While some groups have opposed inclusion initiatives on claims that they promote gender transition among children—a claim educators refute—local leaders encourage anyone with knowledge of these incidents to come forward for the sake of community unity.