I am deeply saddened and disturbed by the discovery of anti-Muslim graffiti in two locations in our community.

Islamophobia and all forms of hate and discrimination are unacceptable and have no place in Whitby.

This graffiti is part of a troubling trend that we are seeing across the country.

According to Statistics Canada, police-reported hate crimes rose by 32 per cent in 2023 alone — the third sharp increase in the last four years.

These numbers reflect a growing wave of hate-motivated acts in communities of all sizes, targeting people because of their religion, race, identity, or beliefs.

No one in our community should ever feel unsafe or unwelcome because of who they are or how they worship.

I want to say directly to our Muslim community: you belong in Whitby.

You are valued, and you are supported. We will continue to stand together and ensure everyone in our town feels safe, included, and respected.

Durham Regional Police Service is investigating the graffiti incidents, and Town of Whitby staff are working with the affected private property owners to remove the graffiti as quickly as possible.

Members of the public are asked to report any instances of hate-motivated graffiti to Durham Regional Police Service by calling 905-579-1520.

Graffiti on Town property can be reported online.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Jillian Follert
Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor
Phone: 289.314.9101
Email: follertj@whitby.ca

Erin Mikaluk
Manager, Communications and Creative Services, Town of Whitby
Phone: 289.314.6913
Email: mikaluke@whitby.ca