Lanark County council officially condemed antisemitism at its latest meeting.
This follows a February delegation from the Lanark County Anti-Semitism Group asking members to do exactly that.
At the time council was split on specific wording and deferred the motion until staff could re-work it to the members liking.
Councillor Bill King offered his thoughts.
The passed motion reads as follows:
WHEREAS hate directed against any group is unacceptable in Canada; and
WHEREAS police reported hate crimes targeting individuals’ religion, race or ethnicity have increased significantly, including
antisemitism and antisemitic crimes across Canada;
WHEREAS such acts of hate are antithetical to the values of inclusivity, respect and safety that define our communities and violate the
fundamental right of all Canadians to live free from discrimination and fear; and
WHEREAS Lanark County is committed to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all residents regardless of faith, ethnicity
or background; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT The Council of Lanark County:
Adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, in alignment with the
Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario;
Condemns the rise in hate in Canada.
Story by Grant Deme
