Swastikas in Windsor, Ontario condemned as hate crime
Police in Windsor, Ontario are investigating “hate-motivated crimes” after Canadian flags carrying a scarlet swastika in place of a maple leaf were found at prominent locations around the city.
Police condemned the criminal acts “that promote hatred”, while the Windsor Jewish Federation and Community Centre (WJFCC) denounced the swastika as an “egregious symbol” of an “evil regime.”
The intent behind the signs remains unclear, though the WJFCC is aware that the signs may be meant to compare COVID-19 measures to Nazism in criticism of Canadian Government policy.
In a statement, the WJFCC said that “perpetuating false equivalencies” was “dangerous”, as “comparisons minimise the intentional and industrialised mass murder of millions.” Its statement added: “These analogies have no place in civil discourse and should be condemned by all.”
Campaign Against Antisemitism has expanded our coverage of antisemitism worldwide. Please contact us if you would like to share feedback or volunteer to assist with this project.