Anti-Semitic graffiti sprayed on Vaughan school called 'appalling'

YorkRegion.com
July 4, 2017
Tim Kelly

The York Regional Police hate crimes unit is investigating after anti-Semitic graffiti and slogans including "Jews caused 911" was sprayed on a Vaughan high school last week.

Another image, including a swastika painted in the middle of what appears to be a Canadian flag, was found Thursday morning at Woodbridge College High School just ahead of a graduation ceremony.

The images were scrubbed away before the ceremony.

Jewish advocacy group B'nai Brith, in a press release by Friday, July 4 the organization called the messages "appalling."

"This disgusting act of anitsemitism and racism could have spoiled a graduation ceremony at the school, right before Canada's 150th birthday," Michael Mostyn of B'nai Brith said.

"But York Regional Police ensured the events would go on smoothly without any trace of the loathsome vandalism that took place," he added.

Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua voiced his concerns on the weekend.

“I strongly condemn all acts of antisemitism. The recent disturbing incident… is reprehensible. Racist, hateful and cowardly acts will not be tolerated. They have no place in our city. As a multicultural community, we are committed to promoting tolerance and respect of everyone," he said in a news release.

The York Regional Police Hate Crimes Unit is appealing for witnesses to come forward or asking anyone with information to call 1-866-876-5423.