The Municipality of Clarington is speaking out against anti-Black racist graffiti recently discovered at Harry Gay Neighbourhood Park in Courtice.
In a statement, Mayor Adrian Foster said the vandalism that was reported last month, was found on playground equipment. Municipal crews removed the graffiti promptly, which Foster said reflected how seriously the municipality treats incidents that contradict its values.
The mayor reaffirmed that racism and discrimination are unacceptable in Clarington and urged anyone who witnesses or experiences similar incidents to report them to Durham Regional Police at 905-579-1520 ext. 1641, or anonymously through Durham Region Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
“I am disheartened that we continue to see this taking place in our community. Clarington is a place of kindness, where everyone is welcome,” Foster said. “Defacing spaces meant to nurture and inspire the next generation is unthinkable. That is not who we are and not who we’re capable of being. The true spirit of Clarington demands that we reject hate, speak out, and choose to be better—for the inclusive future we’re committed to building.”
There have been several cases of hate and racism incidents in southern Durham in recent months (see below).
Police investigate hate-motivated graffiti targeting 2SLGBTQI+l