City condemns anti-Semitic graffiti in Vaughan
The City of Vaughan has issued the following statement.
On Saturday, Oct. 31, anti-Semitic graffiti was found on a sign in Concord/Thornhill Regional Park near Dufferin Street and Highway 407.
“This disturbing act of vandalism is completely unacceptable and goes against the core values upon which our community has been built,” said Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua. “We remain committed to promoting tolerance and respect for everyone. Diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and we will continue to take an active and public role in combating racism and discrimination which is part of our ultimate goal to maintain a safe and inclusive city."
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.”