Religious leaders in Victoria say rise in hate crimes reflects growing tensions

Religious leaders in Victoria say a recent rise in police-reported hate crimes reflects a troubling shift in community safety — but one they are not surprised to see.

New data from Statistics Canada shows reported hate-related incidents in the Capital Regional District increased from 39 in 2022 to 80 in 2024.

Communities adapting to new realities

At Congregation Emanu-El, president Richard Kool says the increase has already changed how religious spaces operate.

“That's just not the world we're living in now,” he said, noting that security precautions have become necessary to ensure both actual and perceived safety.

While doors were once open to anyone, Kool says communities must now balance accessibility with protection.

Fear and rising incidents

Advocacy groups say the numbers reflect what they are hearing on the ground.

National Council of Canadian Muslims representative Yahya Jama says incidents such as harassment, intimidation and threats are being reported more frequently.

“Folks are feeling scared,” he said, adding that the increase is “not surprising.”

Across Canada, Statistics Canada also found higher monthly averages of incidents targeting Jewish and Muslim communities in 2024.

What’s driving the increase?

Experts point to several contributing factors.

University of Victoria psychology professor Nigel Lou says growing political polarization and global conflicts may be intensifying divisions.

“When society becomes more divided, it increases distrust between groups,” he said, noting that social media can amplify harmful narratives and normalize prejudice over time.

Reporting vs. reality

Police say part of the increase may be due to better reporting and awareness.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police in the West Shore area say officers have received additional training to better identify and document hate crimes.

However, advocates caution the numbers may still underrepresent the true scale.

Jama described the reported incidents as “likely just the tip of the iceberg,” noting that many victims choose not to come forward due to fear or lack of confidence in the system.

Calls to report and collaborate

Law enforcement agencies, including the Victoria Police Department, are urging the public to report hate incidents — even those that are non-violent, such as vandalism or the distribution of hateful material.

Officials say understanding the scope of the problem is key to addressing it.

At the same time, community leaders are emphasizing unity.

Kool says collaboration between religious groups is essential to counter fear and division.

“We can’t be afraid,” he said. “We’re stronger when we stand together.”

The broader picture

The rise in reported hate crimes underscores a growing challenge for communities across Canada — balancing safety, openness and inclusion in an increasingly polarized environment.

While awareness and reporting may be improving, leaders say sustained efforts will be needed to address both the root causes and the lived impact of hate in everyday life.