The Richmond Farmland Owners Association strongly condemned Richmond City Councillor Harold Steves, who put out an insensitive and racist tweet last week. They said the tweet is divisive, unwelcoming, and does not represent the values of our community. It has 1 goal – to divide Richmond residents based on their ethnicity. "We are deeply saddened to see this attack on residents and the behaviour of a city lawmaker who is out of touch with the people he represents," said Spokesperson Gunraj Gill.

RICHMOND – The Richmond Farmland Owners Association strongly condemned Richmond City Councillor Harold Steves, who put out an insensitive and racist tweet last week. They said the tweet is divisive, unwelcoming, and does not represent the values of our community. It has 1 goal – to divide Richmond residents based on their ethnicity.

"We are deeply saddened to see this attack on residents and the behaviour of a city lawmaker who is out of touch with the people he represents," said Spokesperson Gunraj Gill.

To further clarify:

"Mr. Steves assumed that the young man who attacked the librarian was a member of the concerned "Asian" community participating in the modular home discussion. RCMP later confirmed that this individual had a history of mental health issues and was not a member of the group participating in the consultation.

Mr. Steves stated "South Asians" are campaigning for 10,000 sq. ft. homes. The Richmond Farmland Owners Association is comprised of numerous pioneer farming families who all come from varied ancestral backgrounds and collectively farm over 2500 acres of farmland in Richmond.

Richmond farmers worked with the City last year to develop the current policy which is an evidence based, pragmatic, and a practical 'Made in Richmond' solution. A solution which was supported by the Richmond Farming Institute and the Agriculture Advisory Committee. Richmond City Staff confirmed this week that only three homes have been granted building permits under the new by-law, none of which have finished construction. Due to political pressure and threats of political retribution from special interest groups, this policy is being recklessly and irresponsibly reopened prior to it’s true effect being seen.

Mr. Steves asked if this is multiculturalism? Multiculturalism is about tolerance, living and working together and recognizing all humankind as one. Multiculturalism is not having a sitting City Councillor tweet messages which divide our community based on the ethnicity of it's residents.

Mr. Steves asked what is happening to Richmond? Diversity – it no longer looks like him. A diverse group of residents is actively participating in the decision making process. A group that he does not wish to consult with.

Councillor Harold Steves’ tweet confirms that he is out of touch and incapable of leading an unbiased and fair consultation.

We call on Councillor Harold Steves to recuse himself from the upcoming vote on this issue in Council.

Richmond has always been and will always be a diverse, inclusive, and loving community. Love, diversity and inclusion will always win over divisiveness, prejudice and fear mongering."