Montreal, Quebec – A recent social media post by Dr. Houman David Hemmati, a physician-scientist and biopharmaceutical entrepreneur, has drawn attention to the perceived safety and vibrancy of Montreal's public spaces, noting the absence of visible police or security presence. In a tweet, Dr. Hemmati stated, > "Here’s another view of one of Montreal’s many pristine public spaces, taken in the evening. Packed with people of all ages, drinking, dancing, eating, enjoying. Clean, safe, but not ONE cop or security in sight. Why? Not needed. Opposite of California. Vote differently!" His observation highlights a stark contrast in urban public safety approaches.
Montreal has historically maintained one of the lowest crime rates among major Canadian cities, with police-reported crime rates significantly lower than the national average. The city's public safety strategy emphasizes a multi-faceted approach, incorporating community engagement, social services, and urban design alongside traditional policing. Initiatives like the "Montréal model for a safe city" focus on preventing violence and enhancing residents' sense of security through coordinated efforts across various sectors.
This approach appears to foster an environment where public spaces are perceived as safe and lively without a heavy security presence. The city's commitment to creating inclusive and well-maintained parks and communal areas further contributes to this atmosphere. Recent investments, such as over $7.9 million from the federal government for safer and more accessible streets, underscore ongoing efforts to enhance public spaces.
In contrast, California's major urban centers frequently grapple with higher crime rates and complex public safety challenges. Cities like Oakland, Stockton, and San Bernardino have faced elevated levels of both violent and property crimes, leading to increased reliance on law enforcement and private security. California has seen legislative efforts to bolster public safety, including new laws in 2025 aimed at retail theft and other property crimes.
Dr. Hemmati, a board-certified ophthalmologist with extensive academic and entrepreneurial experience in California, has been a vocal critic of certain policies in his home state, particularly concerning public safety, homelessness, and the economy. His tweet reflects a perspective shaped by these contrasting urban experiences. The perceived need for visible security in some California public spaces compared to Montreal's seemingly self-regulating environment underscores differing philosophies on urban safety and community management.