A research group at Concordia University has released a report that shows racial profiling is still an issue in Montreal neighbourhoods where people of a visible minority congregate.
The group conducted a three-year study involving 48 in-depth interviews with young people aged 15 to 28 from the east-end Saint-Michel neighbourhood.
READ MORE: Possible systemic racism against First Nations by Quebec police: report
Most of the young people pointed out they are routinely stopped, watched and ID’d by police “for no reason.”
They also claim to have been victims of violence, threats and intimidation.
“These are the practices we’ve seen for years,” said Fo Niemi, executive director at the Center for Research-Action on Race Relations (CRARR).
“We thought they stopped, but obviously they continue, and these young people continue to pay the price.”
WATCH BELOW: Man allegedly sprayed by police speaks out
The report notes many of those affected by racial profiling experience trauma, stress, fear and insecurity — they also have less trust in police and in the justice system.
WATCH BELOW: Châteauguay man alleges racial profiling during 2015 police encounter
“If we’re gonna deal seriously with racial profiling, we need to start with the policies of the SPVM that directly target minority kids or disproportionately affects minority kids,” said Anne-Marie Livingstone, who helped conduct the study.
READ MORE: Protesters converge on downtown Montreal to denounce racism, hate
The research group says in order to eliminate racial profiling, the Montreal Police should make race-based data publicly available, create an independent police watchdog and eliminate programs that target minority youth.
WATCH BELOW: Montreal couple looking for answers in alleged racial profiling case
Montreal Police Station 30 Commander, Marc Lauzon, told Global News that in his three years at the Saint-Michel police station, one of his priorities has been creating good relationships between police officers and citizens.
He said he’s surprised to hear the results of the report.
“I encourage anyone who has been a victim of racial profiling in our district to come to the station and file a complaint,” he said. “We will investigate.”
Next week, Montreal police are expected to present a strategic plan for the next three years on how to support personnel to prevent racial and social profiling.
READ MORE: First Nations women call for Quebec inquiry into systemic racism
The presentation will be followed by a public question period.
“I share their concerns – I don’t want them to feel that way,” said Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante. “I want Montreal to be an inclusive and safe space for everyone.”
WATCH BELOW: Concordia University committed racial, social profiling, according to Human Rights Commission