Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Last weekend, a family moving into their home in Katimavik – Hazeldean were victims of a hate crime. I know the overwhelming majority of Kanata residents are disgusted at what took place and join me in expressing support for the Chanthapanya family.

When people find their tires slashed, it is serious enough. The racist notes that accompanied the vandalism make it much, much more serious.

The perpetrators of hate crimes of this type intend to leave their victims feeling isolated and fearful. They also threaten the community as a whole by trying to turn people against each other.

In Kanata we are proud that our community includes people with roots from all over. Our diversity is viewed as a strength.

The individual responsible for last weekend’s hate crime wants to destroy part of what makes our community special and turn people against each other. As a community we need to fight to stop them.

We do this by keeping an eye out for each other so that the police get any information that may help them catch the perpetrator. And we can send a clear message to those who would perpetrate hate crimes by making it clear through our actions and our speech that we stand united against those who would divide us based on race, ethnicity, language, religion or sexual orientation.

Sincerely,

Peggy

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