Police warned Stampede-goers of sexual assault in Arabic, Hindi

Calgary police launched a public safety campaign during this year’s Calgary Stampede, issuing written warnings in Arabic and Hindi, and other non-official languages.

Calgary police launched a public safety campaign during this year’s Calgary Stampede, issuing written warnings in Arabic and Hindi, and other non-official languages, that urged attendees to avoid committing sexual assault before engaging in any sexual activity.

The messages were shared on the Calgary Police Service’s official social media channels. The posts included graphics of people dancing and emphasized the importance of consent.

One of the Arabic-language graphics reads: “If you see someone in distress or in a situation that could lead to sexual assault, report it, tell event staff, seek help from event security, or call 911.”

Another message in Arabic says, “before committing any sexual acts, consent must be given by both parties.” Another message tells Stampede-goers that “consent can be revoked.”

The Calgary Police Service has thus far published messaging in English, French, Punjabi, Tagalog, Arabic, Hindi, and Simplified Chinese, catering to the ever-growing immigrant population in Alberta.

Security has also been heightened across Calgary in anticipation of the Calgary Stampede and summer travel season.

At the Calgary International Airport, anti-ramming barriers are being installed along curbsides in front of entrances at both the arrivals and departures levels.

The Calgary Airport Authority says the new barriers are a proactive measure aligned with best practices, not a response to any specific threat.

Similarly, portable anti-ramming barriers have been deployed at Calgary Stampede entrances, particularly around pedestrian areas such as the 17th Avenue S.E. extension.

The Stampede has already seen a targeted stabbing attack that left three victims in the hospital.

The Calgary Stampede officially runs until Sunday, July 13.