B.C. MLA says assistant, office were targets of homophobic attack

VANCOUVER – British Columbia MLA Spencer Chandra Herbert says his assistant has been the victim of a homophobic attack targeting his constituency office.

Herbert, who represents Vancouver-West End, says a man came into the constituency office on Friday, shouting homophobic slurs and complaining about the rainbow flag in the office.

He says the suspect punched a hole in the door and assaulted the New Democrat politician’s assistant.

Vancouver police were not immediately available to comment but Chandra Herbert says a man was arrested and charges are pending.

Herbert, who is openly gay and represents a Vancouver neighbourhood known for its gay culture, says the incident left him and his assistant shocked.

But he says the attack has only encouraged him to redouble efforts to stand against hate.