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MEDIA STATEMENT May 8th, 2019 – Ottawa Community Leaders & Organizations Statement Denouncing Racist Graffiti Tagged on Family Home
For Immediate Release Download pdf version
The recent attack on the Konga family where hate inspired racist slurs were spray painted on the families east-end home is very troubling and must be condemned by all well-meaning people of Ottawa. We unequivocally condemn this barbaric act of hatred.
Hate crimes against racialized groups and communities particularly the black communities are on the rise in Ottawa. A recent Stats Canada data indicates an alarming trend that we should all be worried about. African Canadian Association of Ottawa (ACAO) will not stand by unconcerned about these barbaric acts.
We condemn and denounce all forms of racism, particularly, anti-black racism, antisemitism, xenophobia and islamophobia perpetrated against racialized people. These acts of hatred represent horrible stains on our society. Ottawa is a progressive society that must not tolerate these senseless acts that only sow division among us.
We must come together to denounce this racist act and similar acts of discriminations the black community especially face on daily basis at places of work and on the streets of Ottawa. There is nothing we cannot overcome if we come together. ACAO welcomes other organizations and leaders who want to make the fight against racism, hate crimes and other forms of discrimination integral part of their mission. If we are to eradicate this canker in our city and make the UN Decade for People of African Descent and Canadian Government’s commitment and efforts to removing systemic barriers for the people of African Descent a reality, we need more people and organizations to join hands and not just those in the racialized communities.
As a community we stand strong with the Konga family and are here to support the family through this unfortunate situation.
We also call on the Ottawa Police to reopen the case immediately and make it an active ongoing investigation.
Please note that we will be releasing further information and a press conference is scheduled for a later date.
About ACAO:
“The African Canadian Association of Ottawa is an umbrella organization of all 55 African countries and some Caribbean community organizations. Our mission is to unite people of African descent in Ottawa to promote unity, diversity and to showcase our cultural values. Our organization provides space for discussions on issues affecting our community. We also help to integrate new comers into Canada to celebrate Afro-Caribbean & Canadian heritage that can be passed on to younger generations”.
John Adeyefa
President,
African Canadian Association of Ottawa
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