VPD sergeant calls out Vancouver mayor for ‘systemic racism’ statements
This story originally appeared on VancouverSun.com on June 14, 2021.
A Vancouver Police union leader has complained to the police board, saying Mayor Kennedy Stewart‘s public statements about systemic racism have created a “toxic work environment” in the force.
Sgt. Blair Canning’s complaint also alleges that Stewart’s statements have contributed to the recent increase in assaults on officers and have impeded recruiting.
Several VPD officers past and present said they could not recall a current officer — let alone a director of their union — launching such a complaint in writing against a sitting mayor.