Hate crime is a learned behaviour that, when committed against a person or property that is based upon the victim’s race, national or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, or any other similar factor, is a criminal offence. 

The Criminal Code of Canada recognizes two types of hate propaganda: 

1. Advocating Genocide: 

Genocide is the intent to destroy in whole or in part, any identifiable group that is distinguished by colour, race, religion or ethnic origin. This offence is committed when someone supports or promotes genocide. Specifically: 

• killing members of the group; 
• deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring out its physical destruction 

2. Public Incitement of Hatred 

This offence is committed when a person communicates statements in a public place, and incites hatred against an identifiable group that is likely to lead to a breach of the peace. 

This offence is also committed when someone communicates statements, other than in a private conversation, that wilfully promotes hatred against any identifiable group. 

“Communication” includes: words spoken, recorded electronically or otherwise, gestures, signs or other visible representations. 

Hate mongers frequently use graffiti as a form of communication. This is particularly true when directed against a place of worship associated with an identifiable group. 

KEEPING YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD FREE OF HATE GRAFFITI 

While it is extremely difficult to proactively address the root causes of hate motivated crime, hate crime can be kept in check if you report hate related graffiti such as a swastikas, derogatory terms and/or KKK references that you see on public property (underpasses, soundwalls, park property etc.).

Report all hate related graffiti on public property to 3-1-1 to facilitate its immediate removal. 

PROTECTING YOUR BUILDINGS AND/OR PLACES OF WORSHIP FROM HATE RELATED CRIME 

Do not make it easy for hate mongers to access your building(s) or property. Keep doors locked except when in active use. 

Reduce the potential for hate graffiti by establishing a buffer planting around exposed walls. Carefully select low maintenance plant material that will not restrict lines of sight to vulnerable windows or doors. 

Consider adding motion activated lights and closed circuit television cameras (cctv) to highlight and record activity on your property particularly at night. Strategically install colourful cctv signage that includes an image (depiction) of a camera posted at all entry points onto the property. 

OTHER HELPFUL TIPS 

• Be mindful of the example that you set for yourself and others, particularly children. 
• Monitor your child’s activities while on the internet. 
• Use exposure to racist news and/or other events as teachable moment when your child is exposed to it. Remember that no child was born a racist - it is learned. 

IF YOU ARE THE VICTIM OF HATE CRIME:

• Stay calm
• Keep all relevant material/record all information regarding the incident
• Call Police immediately! It is essential that you report, to break the cycle of hate.

THE TORONTO POLICE HATE CRIME UNIT

The Hate Crime Unit was established to provide support to front line officers and investigative units. The Unit monitors hate motivated crime for the purpose of aiding and identifying crimes and criminals and to assist with sentencing at the end of the judicial process. 

Hate Crime Unit officers can be reached at 416-808-3500.