Less than 3 days after officially opening, the Canada Place gathering space at the waterfront has been vandalized.
Markings have been painted on the words ‘diversity’ and ‘inclusion’ while ‘they have to go back’ has been painted onto the concrete.
“We are deeply disappointed that Canada Place at the Waterfront, which was recently opened with great pride for the enjoyment and benefit of our entire community, has been vandalized,” says Gord Young, communications officer with the City of North Bay. “Police will be notified, and city crews will be working to remove the graffiti.”
Canada Place officially opened with a ceremony on Canada Day.
David Woolley, corporate communications officer for the North Bay Police Service (NBPS), says they are aware of the incident.
“We are investigating the graffiti at the waterfront Canada Place,” shared Woolley. “The North Bay Police Service stands against bigotry, hate, and intolerance in all its forms. We work closely with community groups and leaders throughout North Bay to build a police service and community that is open, safe, and accepting of everyone regardless of their religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender expression, or ability. We take reports of hate and bias motivated crimes very seriously.”
NBPS is asking anyone who may have information about this incident, including video or dash cam footage from the area between Monday, July 1 and Thursday, July 4, 2024, provide that information to the North Bay Police Service by calling 705-497-5555 and pressing 5 to speak with an officer.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.nearnorthcrimestoppers.com
