NWT Human Rights Commission ‘condemns rise of hate speech’

The NWT Human Rights Commission issued a statement on Friday urging residents to “call out and condemn hate when they see it,” particularly online.

Last month, a newly formed association of south Asian Yellowknife residents published a press release expressing concern about “blatantly racist, xenophobic and deeply harmful” content in Facebook groups associated with the city and territory.

The Association of South Asians in Yellowknife highlighted an anonymous post to a Yellowknife “rant and rave” Facebook group that called for a service “that rounds up illegal immigrants. Especially the ones from India.”

More: South Asian group wants to ‘change minds and bridge gaps’

In a news release on Friday, the NWT Human Rights Commission said it “strongly condemns the rise of hate speech and discriminatory behaviour in online spaces.”

“As online platforms become increasingly central to how we communicate and connect, we must ensure they are safe and inclusive for everyone,” the commission stated.

“Online hate – including racism, misogyny, homophobia, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of bigotry – undermines the values of equality and dignity that are at the heart of our human rights system. It silences voices, targets vulnerable groups, and fractures the sense of safety and belonging essential to building strong communities.”

The commission exists to promote equality and human rights while defending individuals and groups from discrimination under the protections offered by the NWT Human Rights Act.

Many communities in the NWT rely on Facebook for online interactions like buying and selling second-hand goods, organizing events and even conducting local politics. Meta, which owns Facebook and is responsible for the platform’s policies and their enforcement, has not responded to requests for comment about its approach to online hate speech.

In its statement, the commission said residents need to “support those targeted both online and in person and report harmful behaviour when appropriate.”

“Online hate does not stay online; its impacts ripple across workplaces, schools, and communities, harming mental health, undermining trust, and reinforcing systemic inequalities,” the statement continued.

“The NWT Human Rights Commission is committed to promoting equality and fostering respectful dialogue. We encourage everyone to reflect on the role they can play in pushing back against hate, both online and in everyday life.”