Whitby mayor and a regional councillor have come out strongly against an act of antisemitic vandalism at the town’s public library.
Whitby Regional Councillor Chris Leahy said he is set to introduce a motion calling for automatic reporting of hate-motivated vandalism to human rights organizations such as B’nai Brith. The motion follows the discovery of several swastikas carved into the walls of the Whitby Public Library at 405 Dundas Street West.
Leahy emphasized the importance of taking immediate action. “The library is where families and students go to do research, study, and participate in arts and literature programming. The library is not the place you expect to see that type of hateful message. When I heard about this incident, I called library staff, but I also called B’nai Brith to report it.”
The councillor added that reporting these incidents to organizations like B’nai Brith should become institutional policy to strengthen the fight against hate. “I want any and all of our 1,500-plus employees to know we expect them to say something when they see something. I’ll be asking staff to report on just how to implement that policy.”
Library staff have since removed the swastikas, which are believed to have been carved on Friday, January 10. Leahy stated that he plans to bring his motion forward at both the Whitby Town Council and the Region of Durham Council meetings, asserting, “We need to send a clear message to those who hate other people: you are not welcome in Whitby, you are not welcome in Durham.”
Expressing his frustration, Leahy remarked, “It’s outrageous to me that we have a public menorah lighting outside of the library but some scumbag carving swastikas on the inside.”
He also urged residents to remain vigilant, stating, “As a community, we have to report these incidents to the appropriate authorities. I know some politicians want to bury their head in the sand. I would rather bury the hate.”
Mayor Roy Responds to Library Vandalism
Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy also condemned the antisemitic vandalism, calling the incident deeply troubling and distressing. She highlighted the swift response by library staff, who covered the graffiti and contacted Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS), who responded to the scene.
“Such hateful symbols have no place in our community, especially not in a library, which should be a safe and welcoming space for all,” said Rhonda Jessup, CEO and Chief Librarian.
Mayor Roy pointed out that this latest act of hate follows a similar incident in August 2024, when a large swastika was burned into the grass at a Whitby park. In response, Roy had convened a meeting with representatives from the Jewish community, Durham Regional Police, and other community partners to discuss next steps.
“Together, we committed to ongoing dialogue and action to combat antisemitism and ensure that every resident feels safe and supported in Whitby,” she stated.
Reaffirming her commitment to combating hate, Roy added, “Acts of hate like this not only target specific individuals or groups but also seek to divide our community. We will not let that happen.” She confirmed that she remains in contact with Whitby Public Library staff, police, and community leaders to ensure a coordinated response and urged anyone with information to come forward to Durham Regional Police.
“This incident is a direct attack on our Jewish community and the values of inclusion, respect, and safety that define our town,” Roy said. “To our Jewish community: please know that you are not alone. Whitby stands with you, and together, we will continue working to ensure that hate has no home in our town.”
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