The City of Richmond has begun cracking down on local businesses using Chinese-only signs to promote their brands.
The crackdown comes after city councilors recently passed a motion to restrict signs that have not been approved by the city, including storefront windows, banners, posters, and pamphlets not offered in English.
Local businesses using Chinese-only signs are arguing back and point out that there’s a grey line between “official signs” and advertising/marketing material.
The issue of Chinese-only signs has stirred quite the controversy in recent years among Richmond residents. While nearly 50 per cent of Richmond’s population identifies themselves as of Chinese descent, the other 50 per cent of residents only speak English and feel excluded within their own community.
Ted Townsend, the spokesperson of Richmond says that business owners are still able to decide what language they want to use on their signs, but are encouraged to incorporate some English as well as per the strong visual impact.
The city hopes the new motions and restrictions will help ease cultural tension and restore the community cohesion.
photo credit: National Post
