City Cracking Down On Non-English Signage In Richmond

Richmond English Chinese Signage

Photo: Aberdeen Station / Meagan Gill

It’s not a new issue, but the City of Richmond is one step closer to making English mandatory on business signage.

The majority of city council members have backed the proposal, which would require business owners to include at least 50 per cent of the English language.

Signage Controversy

Many business signs in Richmond only have Chinese-language. As a result, it’s caused some controversy and complaints among the public – as they should also contain at least one of Canada’s official languages.

City Counsellor Bill McNulty brought up the issue in a recent council meeting after they received almost 200 comments about the lack of English on business signage around the city.

The issue is seen across the city on both business signs and bus stop advertisements.

The City believes incorporating more English on signs will increase a sense of belonging and community among all residents.

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