Combating hate. Representational image by Mattia Ascenzo on Unsplash
Toronto/CMEDIA: An investment of $25.5 million over two year is being made by Ontario government to help address the rise of hate incidents against religious and minority groups, a news release said.
For the implementation and and enhancing the safety and security of Ontario communities this new Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant will help faith-based and cultural organizations.
“No Ontarian should live in fear that they will be targeted because of their background…the new Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant…ensure everyone has a safe environment to practice their faith and express their culture and beliefs,” said Michael Ford, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism.
Up to $10,000 from the grant will help protect and secure facilities of religious groups, Indigenous communities and cultural communities from hate-motivated incidents, graffiti, vandalism or other damage.
Included in the grant funding are things such as building upgrades, enhancing locks, installing cameras, training staff, completing security assessments, introducing safer cybersecurity measures, hiring short-term professional security personnel and making repairs.
Solicitor General Michael Kerzner reportedly said that Ontario has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to hate and these grants will continue to protect the people of this province.
Since 2021, The government has allocated $40 million through the Ontario Grant to Support Anti-Hate Security Measures for religious groups, Indigenous communities and cultural communitiesfor Faith-Based and Cultural Organizations.
The redesigned Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant will now cover the cost of additional prevention and capacity building measures, and allows for more organizations to apply.
Eligible organizations include
- Religious and spiritual communities (e.g., mosques, synagogues, temples, churches, etc.)
- First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and urban Indigenous organizations
- Cultural groups (e.g., 2SLGBTQQIA+ groups, Black, Asian and other diverse organizations offering programs, workshops and ceremonies that promote their communities’ cultures)
Applications for the Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant will open in summer 2023.
#Ontario; #CreateSaferCommunities; #CombatingHate
