Editor: On at least two occasions, a Kwantlen Polytechnic University security guard had a problem with my wife and i being on campus. My wife and I felt very uncomfortable in both encounters with the said individual.
I understand the need for the recently-increased security presence at Kwantlen’s Langley campus, due to the proximity of The Salvation Army’s Gateway Of Hope. However I do believe this individual was out of line.
On Tuesday, May 14, at around 6 p.m.. my wife and I were approached as we were sitting down on a log on the trail near the Wark/Dumais House and the duck pond. We were doing nothing wrong. We did not disturb the peace in any way, shape, or form.
He asked us to leave. I told him I did not wish to speak with him. He considered this to be rude and threatened to ban me from the trail and escort me to The Salvation Army, as if we were in a police state.
I did not agree with his judgement. I am not a confrontational man, but I do enjoy my right to freedom of peaceful Assembly and I do not appreciate him infringing on my freedom of movement.
He acts more like a policeman that a security guard. I do not believe these guards, who are not police officers, have any right to ask anyone to move along if they have done nothing wrong. They are infringing on their right to peaceful assembly and enjoyment of life and liberty.
I believe more judgement needs to be used in the future. Just because one attends The Salvation Army does not give Paladin Security the right to single any one person out for any reason, unless they are commiting an offence. Is sitting on a log enjoying the sun and the view some kind of a serious criminal offence?
I hope that he does not continue to harass me and others in the future.
Colin Cumbridge,
Langley