Chilliwack – The RCMP, with the support of the business community, is introducing the Safe Place Program throughout the city.
Originating in Seattle, and introduced in Vancouver two years ago, the Safe Place program offers the LGBTQ2S+ community shelter if they are feeling unsafe – a place where they will be welcomed, can call the police, and wait until officers arrive.
Businesses, schools, or other institutions participating in the program are identified by a rainbow coloured badge displayed on a door or window of their locations.
To register, participants are asked to sign an agreement they will provide a safe place for anyone of the LGBTQ2S+ community, then post the rainbow decal.
“Everyone should feel safe,” says Corporal Mike Rail spokesperson for the UFVRD. “Promoting acceptance and inclusion while ensuring the safety of community is a priority of the Chilliwack RCMP.”
To include your business or association in the Safe Place program contact Constable Isabelle Christensen at 604-393-3000.
Reaction on social media has been swift:
LGBTQ activist and NDP Executive Director Morgane Oger told FVN : “a welcome development.”
Wendy Moira Angela Darling A wonderful addition to our city! Needed and welcome. I hear some of my favourite local businesses will soon be sporting this. Luna Float is getting theirs from the detachment and Jim’s Pizza Chilliwack has one up already I heard. I’d like to see one on city hall City of Chilliwack.
School Trustee candidate Willow Reichelt:I’m very pleased to see this initiative launched in our community.
