Statement from Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath condemning acts of hate in Ontario

In the wake of what has happened in Paris and Lebanon and elsewhere across the globe, we have seen a backlash of hate and violence targeting racialized communities in Ontario, particularly against Muslims and Muslim women.

These kinds of acts are unacceptable and despicable  – from the vandalism of a Hindu temple in Kitchener, arson at a mosque in Peterborough and, violence and harassment against Muslim women in Toronto.

New Democrats condemn racism, Islamophobia and all forms of prejudice, in the strongest possible terms.

These attacks, however, will not make us more closed, more fearful or more distrustful.

In the face of such violence we reaffirm our openness, our love for each other and our determination to build a better future together – with all people in Ontario.

What happened in Paris and Beirut was heartbreaking for all of us. No family and no city should ever have to experience such excruciating pain – anywhere.

We believe that intimidation and hate has no place in any society based on freedom, justice and human rights.