Anti-Semitic Graffiti in Vaughan
Aug. 26, 2013
The City of Vaughan has issued the following statement.
Late last week, graffiti was found spray-painted on four vehicles in the Bathurst St. and New Westminster Dr. area. The graffiti included an image of a swastika.
“This cowardly and completely unacceptable act of vandalism will not be tolerated in our community,” said Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua. “Vaughan is committed to promoting tolerance and respect for everyone in our multicultural City. One of our great strengths is our diversity, and by taking an active and public role in combating racism and discrimination, we will continue to build a respectful, inclusive and safe community.”
“I am disappointed that we are seeing this senseless and cruel form of vandalism in our community,” said Ward 5 Thornhill Councillor Alan Shefman. “I condemn this kind of behaviour wherever it takes place and will continue to work to build a tolerant and diverse community that respects everyone.”
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 is liable 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 resources on graffiti are posted to the City's website at www.vaughan.ca under Residential Services.