Smiths Falls Rainbow Crosswalks vandalized
Posted Jun 12, 2023 09:00:06 AM.
Newly painted rainbow crosswalks were vandalized in Smiths Falls over the weekend.
According to the Smiths Falls Police Service (SFPS), the Pride Crosswalks at the intersections of Beckwith Street North and Church Street East and West were defaced around 10 p.m. on Friday, June 9.
Smiths Falls Mayor Shawn Pankow has responded to the vandalism on Facebook.
“What kind of hate must you have in your heart to put on a disguise and head out in the middle of the night to deface a symbol that means so much, to so many, Pankow says. “Despite knowing that the vast majority of our citizens are fully supportive of the these Pride Crosswalks, we also understood that there are still people in our town who, armed with bias, prejudice and intolerance, still carry homophobic attitudes.”
Smiths Falls Pride has also responded with a reminder these actions do not define the community.
“To those who are as deeply saddened to see this overt bigotry as we are – especially those in the queer community – know this: you are loved, supported, and welcome in this community. A few bad actors with hate in their heart does not and will not define Smiths Falls.”
Mayor Pankow says city crews will repaint the crosswalks — and that they will be repainted as many times as necessary.
The investigation into the vandalism continues and the SFPS is urging anyone with information to contact the service at 613-283-0357. Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
