Anti-Semitic Graffiti in Vaughan
July 23, 2014
The City of Vaughan has issued the following statement.
On Tuesday, July 22, anti-Semitic graffiti was found spray-painted on a bus shelter in the area of Spring Gate Boulevard and Atkinson Avenue in Thornhill.
“This is yet another act of vandalism and racism that is completely unacceptable and is not consistent with our community's core values. It will not be tolerated in our community,” said Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua. “Vaughan is committed to building a city that promotes tolerance and respect for everyone. One of our great strengths is our diversity, and by taking an active and public role in combating racism and discrimination, we have built an inclusive and safe community."
“I deplore this latest episode of hate graffiti,” said Ward 5 Councillor Alan Shefman. “What happened last week at the Jaffari site and today in the heart of Thornhill is reprehensible. There is no place in our society and in our community for such vile expressions of contempt for the core values of Canada.”
The City of Vaughan passed an anti-graffiti by-law in 2009. Under the by-law, anyone convicted of an offence is liable on the first conviction to a fine of not less than $400 and not more than $20,000, and on subsequent convictions to a fine of not less than $400 and not more than $50,000.
The City’s website states: “Graffiti can offend or hurt individuals when it is obscene, racist, or derogatory towards a person or a community. Graffiti of this nature is considered a hate crime and should be reported to York Regional Police.”
Additional information on graffiti is available on the City's website at www.vaughan.ca.