Statement condemning hate-motivated graffiti

Recently, several additional incidents of hate-motivated graffiti in Waterloo Region have been confirmed by Waterloo Regional Police Service. The City of Waterloo condemns all symbols of hate; the recent despicable occurrences in Waterloo serve no purpose. We re-affirm our commitment to stamp out hate in this city. The city values being a welcoming and caring community for all persons, inclusive of race, religion, abilities, age, sexual identity, and circumstances of birth.

As a city, we will not tolerate any form of hate, discrimination, racism or anti-Semitism, and we will not accept members of our community being targets of identity-based harassment. We will continue to use internal resources and personnel including park services, by-law staff, and neighborhoods to address hate anywhere in Waterloo. We support communities that may be impacted by these behaviors, and will work with community partners to advance initiatives confronting hate.

“No one should experience hurtful messages on their way to work, to worship, or at any time in our city,” said Mayor Dave Jaworsky. “It’s unacceptable for anyone living or visiting here to demonstrate targeted hate in any form. These are cowardly, criminal acts, and an informed and united community is our best defense.”

What can you do?

Report. If you witness or experience an act of hate:

• Hate incidents or discrimination involving Islamophobia, Racism, or Anti-Immigrant Sentiment can be reported at reportinghate.ca.
• If you feel comfortable you should report it to the police 519-570-9777 (WRPS).
• Hate graffiti in Uptown Waterloo can also be reported to the Waterloo Uptown BIA (519-885-1921), or anywhere in Waterloo to Municipal Enforcement Services (519-747-8785).
• If you have a past experience you would like to share, please contact the city’s Indigenous initiatives, anti-racism, accessibility and equity team.

Support. If you have been impacted by hate crimes or hate acts in our community, we are united with you. Supports are available in our community for anyone needing assistance. For those wishing to be part of the solution and stop hate, be visible and be vocal in your support of victims and condemnation of hate. Let others know that your neighbourhood is one that welcomes everyone and is safe for all identities.

Community supports

• Anishinabeg Outreach provides healing and mental health supports and programming to First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Their mission is to help First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples by creating a sustainable and comprehensive suite of centralized wrap around services.
• HERE 24/7 (1-877-437-3247, or 1-HERE247) for access to crisis services provided by local agencies.
• Kind Minds Family Wellness (KMFW) provides local culturally inclusive support and resources that are Afrocentric, culturally informed, and address anti-Black racism while fostering the Black communities empowerment and collective resilience. 
• Muslim Social Services of Waterloo Region provides culturally and spiritually sensitive social services to Muslim and non-Muslim communities. They envision an inclusive community that understands everyone’s needs and provides support for all.
• OK2BME is a set of support services for 2SLGBTQIA+ or questioning kids, teens and adults in Waterloo Region. They provide individual counselling, youth groups, support in schools and more.
• Qualia Counselling offers a range of mental health services including Indigenous Counselling Services. Their services are culturally responsive and take into account intergenerational and historical trauma. They are committed to supporting individuals and communities.
• SPECTRUM, Waterloo Region’s Rainbow Community Space, offers a safe place where 2SLGBTQ+ individuals can be themselves and find community and supports. They offer crisis resources and wellness resources, supporting an inclusive community where all 2SLGBTQ+ individuals are welcomed, celebrated, and supported as their authentic selves.
• The Waterloo Region Jewish Community Council (WRJCC) is dedicated to enhancing Jewish life in Waterloo Region. The Chesed (Kindness) Committee of WRJCC seeks to strengthen the Jewish community by creating a network of mutual assistance.