Thornhill (September 12, 2019) – A member of the public contacted Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) to report swastika graffiti not far from her home. The swastika appeared by a bridge near the corner of Clarke and Hilda Avenues in the suburb of Thornhill, which has a large Jewish community.

The graffiti was reported immediately to police, who are currently investigating. York Regional Police say their intention is to have the disturbing image removed.

“Symbols like the swastika are an affront not just to the Jewish community, but to our basic values as a country,” said Avi Benlolo, FSWC president and CEO. “As the incidences of antisemitism and extremism continue to grow, we call on all Canadians to speak out against any type of hatred and to be vigilant in reporting  hate incidences such as this one to police.”  

FSWC will continue to monitor to ensure the swastika is removed from the concrete as quickly as possible.