Ottawa sees 20% rise in hate incidents over past year

The number of hate-related incidents in Ottawa rose nearly 20 per cent in 2023

The number of hate-related incidents in Ottawa rose nearly 20 per cent in 2023, and the city's police chief said these "concerning" numbers underscore the need for improved education on combating hatred.

Last year, there were 460 reported hate-related incidents, which include both criminal and non-criminal, police Chief Eric Stubbs said at a news conference Monday.

That's compared to 385 incidents in 2022, he added.

"The increased number of hate crimes and hate-motivated incidents are concerning," Stubbs said.