Premier Legault Claims 'There's No Systemic Discrimination' In Quebec

On May 31, a solidarity demonstration for George Floyd and other victims of police racism was held in downtown Montreal. The next day, during the Government of Quebec's press conference, Premier François Legault spoke out about the racial injustice that led to Floyd's murder. "As the premier of Quebec, I stand in solidarity with the people who denounce racial violence," he said, referring to the individuals who showed up for the Montreal protest.

"We must continue to build a society free of racism," the premier told everyone, saying that a racist society is not one which he wants for the province.

Later during the question period of the conference, Legault stated, "I think there's some discrimination in Quebec, but there's no systemic discrimination."

"There's no system in Quebec of discrimination. And it's a very, very small minority of the people that are doing some discrimination," he claimed.

Legault said he believes that "all human beings are equal... regardless of the colour of their skin," while admitting that "we still have work to do in protesting against racism."

Below is a video of the press conference in which he discusses George Floyd's murder, the Montreal demonstration on May 31, and systemic racism in the province.

Early in the conference, Legault mentions having seen the video of Floyd's murder and having been deeply affected by the sight of a police officer pushing his knee on the throat of a man until he stopped breathing.

The premier referred to this injustice as both "shocking" and "revolting."

The English part of his speech about "the tragic death of George Floyd" happens around 39 minutes in the video above.

"We have to admit that there are some problems in Montreal and in Quebec," François Legault said.

But, the premier claims there's no systemic discrimination that exists within the province.

In regards to Sunday's protest, Legault said he stands in solidarity with everyone who chose to be part of the demonstration in Montreal on May 31.

Dr. Horacio Arruda, after watching footage of the protest, said the vast majority of people were respecting social distancing measures and protesting in peace.

The mayor of Montreal, Valérie Plante, also spoke out about the Montreal demonstration for justice for victims of police racism held on May 31.

Plante referred to the protest as both "noble" and "necessary," something which she and Legault seem to agree on.