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Multiple groups are speaking out against online hate speech in Yellowknife and the territory at large.

The NWT Human Rights Commission issued a press release on July 4 condemning what it calls a rise of hate speech and discriminatory behaviour on the internet.

Charles Dent, chair of the comission, told SA¹ú¼ÊÓ°ÊÓ´«Ã½ that hate can appear broadly online, including social media like Facebook and Instagram and in comments on sites like Kijiji and Craigslist. 

"It seems to us that over the course of the last year or two, particularly the last six months, there seems to be more tolerance for that sort of vitriol you hear about people of different races, different colours, different genders," said Dent. "It's becoming more of an issue in our society, but it's particularly in social media."

The commission says it urges NWT residents to call out and condemn hate when they see it. 

"Online hate does not stay online; its impacts ripple across workplaces, schools and communities, harming mental health, undermining trust and reinforcing systemic inequalities," the organization stated.

In May, in response to combating racism, Yellowknife established its own Association of South Asians. Part of its goal, it says, is to address discrimination faced by its members.

"The founding members SA¹ú¼ÊÓ°ÊÓ´«Ã½” some of whom have personally experienced racism in Yellowknife SA¹ú¼ÊÓ°ÊÓ´«Ã½” felt compelled to take action after witnessing the challenges that racialized communities face," a news release announcing the association's creation reads.

And as of last month, the association sent out another press release condemning a comment on Facebook, posted in the 'Yellowknife Rants & Raves 2.0' group. The comment called for a service to round up supposed illegal immigrants, particularly ones from India. 

"This statement is blatantly racist, xenophobic and deeply harmful," the association contended.

Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Caitlin Cleveland is pleading with Ottawa to restore the territory's immigrant nominee program so the NWT can retain and attract more workers to the NWT. She says the program helps build inclusive, resilient communities where everyone can contribute and feel at home.