City Condemns Anti-Semitic Graffiti in Vaughan
Sept. 3, 2014
The City of Vaughan has issued the following statement.
On Tuesday, Aug. 26, anti-Semitic graffiti was found on a United Jewish Appeal sign in Thornhill on the southwest corner of Bathurst and Centre streets.
“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. “Vaughan is a city 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."
“It is very disappointing to see this cruel form of vandalism in our community,” said Ward 5 Councillor Alan Shefman. “There is no place for these intolerant acts in our City and I condemn this kind of behaviour. I will continue to work to build a tolerant and diverse community that values and 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 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.”