VICTORIA – B.C. New Democrat leader John Horgan released the following statement about the nearly 300 abducted Nigerian school girls:

“B.C.’s New Democrats are standing with the Nigerian community in B.C. and around the world, and an outraged, heartbroken international community. We are joining the call for strong action to rescue nearly 300 Nigerian school girls abducted for pursuing an education, and to bring their abductors to justice.

“Thinking of our own families, this is an unimaginable crime. We offer our support to families abroad combatting violence against women and girls. And we will continue to do our part here in B.C. to stop violence against women and girls and demand action on tragedies such as the Highway of Tears.”

A rally organized by the Nigerian community will be held at Robson Square at the Vancouver Art Gallery on Saturday, May 10 at 12 p.m.