Hundreds of people took to the streets Sunday for a solidarity walk following a rash of hate crimes in the capital.
The walk, organized by local councillors, started at the corner of Scott Street and Island Park Driveway, before weaving its way through Hingtonburg to the Plant Community Centre.
The ward’s councilor said the event was launched after synagogues, an Ottawa mosque and the Parkdale United Church were vandalized within the last week.
“People wanted to get together,” said Kitchissippi Ward Councillor Jeff Leiper. “People wanted to discuss the values they hold which are values of tolerance, generosity, love and they wanted to show that.”
Those in attendance said the gathering was a chance to talk about their shared values and what more can be done to fight intolerance.
“I think it’s important for love to combat hate, and by standing together across all the religions that is what we are doing,” said Naomi Thick who walked with her seven-year-old son Hayden.
The community gathering passed by the Parkdale United Church. Its reverend said the support from the community since the church was targeted has been outstanding.
“This is absolutely incredible,” said Rev. Anthony Bailey. “This march is a testimony to the fact that the community stands in solidarity with the ways of love against hatred.”
Ottawa Police charged one teenager in relation to multiple related offences across the city. The youth made his first court appearance Saturday on a variety of charges including uttering threats of a dangerous weapon and mischief against a religious building. The suspect’s identity cannot be released because of his age.