Region of Waterloo passes new by-law to combat racism and hate
Posted Sep 21, 2023 03:38:57 PM.
Last Updated Sep 22, 2023 03:59:26 PM.
An amendment to the regional by-law will fine residents who engage in hateful harassment on regionally owned properties.
In a meeting on Sept. 12, regional councillors unanimously approved a motion to amend the bylaw on prohibited activities. The new amendment covers harassment based on religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation and gender identity on regionally owned properties, such as municipal buildings and transportation services.
Sarah Shafiq, the Director of Advocacy, Research and Outreach for the Coalition of Muslim Women KW, said there is a gap between hate crimes and harassment that needed to be addressed.
“A lot of people were suffering,” said Shafiq on the Mike Farwell Show on Tuesday. “These are hate instances, these are not criminal offenses. So something needed to be done.”
The move comes after the region in May passed a motion condemning all forms of hate and discrimination.
Bylaw officers will be able to issue fines of $250 to those who violate the new rule. Staff will be trained over the next few months on the new change.
Shafiq said while the fine amount will be seen as a deterrent to harassment in the community, the Coalition is a “very strong” advocate for restorative justice.
“It’s not like you give a penalty and a person will stop hating,” she said. “Hopefully, this penalty will enable us as a community to engage in further dialogue with the harm-doer.”
The change will be formally accepted at a council meeting on Sept. 25.
