Canada supports Edmonton groups against hate crimes, Sept 2024

On September 29, 2024, the Government of Canada announced a significant investment of $151,911 aimed at enhancing the security of religious and community organizations in Edmonton. This funding is part of the Security Infrastructure Program (SIP), which has been established to support communities that are at risk of hate-motivated crimes. The announcement was made by the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, who emphasized the importance of safety and the right to worship freely for all Canadians. The SIP, originally launched in 2007, has seen over $30 million invested in more than 770 projects across Canada to bolster the security of community centers and places of worship. The recent funding is a response to the alarming rise in hate incidents that various communities have experienced in recent years, highlighting the federal government's commitment to combatting hate and ensuring community safety. In addition to the SIP, a new initiative called the Canada Community Security Program (CCSP) was introduced, which aims to enhance and replace the SIP based on feedback from communities. The first Call for Applications for the CCSP is set to launch on October 1, 2024, allowing organizations to apply for funding to improve their security measures. This investment is part of a broader Action Plan outlined in Budget 2024, which seeks to address hate crimes and enhance community security through various programs under the National Crime Prevention Strategy. The government aims to support vulnerable communities and prevent crime through targeted initiatives and outreach efforts.