By Spencer Sterritt

Racist posters found at VIU’s Nanaimo campus

Mar 21, 2017 | 1:28 PM

NANAIMO — An investigation is underway after several racist and discriminatory posters were found around VIU’s Nanaimo campus early Monday.

Dr. Carrie Chassels, director of student affairs at VIU, said thankfully the six posters were found before many students could see them.

However, she said having such disturbing content on campus was still a significant concern.

“VIU does not tolerate hate or intolerance in any shape.”

She said it’s ironic the posters were distributed just before Tuesday’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

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Phoebe Patigdas, chairperson on the VIU Student Union, said they had several events Tuesday celebrating the day to eliminate racism, such as flag or banner creation to promote diversity.

Patigdas said she was surprised such posters would be found at VIU, which she said is an inclusive community.

“We continually do advocacy work for equality, so this just inspires our movement, our motivation to really advocate and continually do this kind of work.”

Nanaimo RCMP confirmed an investigation into the posters is underway by the Nanaimo Youth Section with assistance from the General Investigation Unit, but declined to comment.

The BC Hate Crime Team has been consulted.

Anyone with information about the flyers are asked to contact Nanaimo RCMP.

Spencer.sterritt@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit