Ward 11 Alderman Brian Pincott | City of Calgary Office of the Aldermen

This past weekend there was a shameful crime committed in Ward 11. The Calgary Jewish Centre, among other locations, was vandalized with anti-Semitic graffiti. This was a horrific and thoughtless act of vandalism meant to cause harm far beyond the mere physical damage inflicted. The intent of this type of hate crime is to inflict damage not only to property but to the human psyche. Let us be frank, this action was an unsuccessful attempt to terrorize a strong and resilient community.

This behaviour and attitude has no place in our society today. And yet, we must remain vigilant to intolerance and hate, wherever it appears. We must respond swiftly and strongly wherever it occurs. Intolerance, in all its forms, is something that we all must take seriously.

I look forward to the day that I do not have to participate in anti-racism marches in protest to the Aryan Nation being present in our community. Until they are no longer a presence, I will be there, speaking against intolerance, speaking for inclusion and compassion.

My heart goes out to the Jewish community in our City, and further abroad, for the pain that this senseless act has caused.