Ontario mayor says racist graffiti found in neighbourhood park ‘disheartening’

Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster is “disheartened” to see more racist graffiti in the community after a racist slur was discovered on playground equipment at Harry Gay Park in Courtice in late July.

“I am disheartened that we continue to see this taking place in our community. Clarington is a place of kindness, where everyone is welcome. 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,” he said, adding that crews “responded swiftly” to remove the graffiti. “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.”

Racism and discrimination are “unacceptable” in Clarington, noted Angela Anderson, the Chair of the Anti-Black Racism Advisory Committee.

“This kind of hate has no place in our community. It’s ugly, unacceptable, and it does not reflect the Clarington we’re striving to become,” she said, noting it shows there is still “work to be done.”

“We believe in a better tomorrow. The Anti-Black Racism Advisory Committee stands for a Clarington where no one is excluded and everyone feels a true sense of belonging. Together, we unequivocally condemn this hateful act and reject the ignorance it represents.”

The municipality is asking residents who witness or experience “anything concerning” to report it to Durham Regional Police at (905) 579-1520 ext. 1641 or anonymously with Durham Region Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca.