Mayor Chow responds to racist attacks online
Toronto's mayor posted a video addressing the racist, sexist and personal attacks she regularly receives on social media, defending her work ethic.
Mayor Olivia Chow posted a video this week directly responding to racist, sexist, and personal attacks she frequently receives online, including comments telling her to "go back to China."
The mayor defended her work ethic after commenters accused her of not working, sharing part of her packed daily schedule and noting she spends up to 14 hours a day at Toronto City Hall. The video represents a rare public rebuttal to the abuse directed at her across social platforms.
Chow also addressed other forms of criticism she faces regularly, using the platform to push back against false narratives about her commitment to the role. The mayor's decision to respond publicly underscores the broader challenge facing public figures in Toronto who navigate ongoing harassment campaigns.
The incident highlights the persistent gap between the work city leaders do behind closed doors and public perceptions shaped by online discourse.