Toronto, Ont. – We are profoundly disturbed by the mass shooting attack in Buffalo, New York, last weekend, that was motivated by racial hate which claimed the lives of African-American citizens. Our hearts and condolences go out to the people of Buffalo, the families of the victims and all those impacted by this horrific crime.
WoodGreen Community Services condemns these hateful and racially motivated murders. There must be zero tolerance for all expressions and actions of prejudice, bigotry and violence that are committed against a person or property based on real or perceived race, ethnicity, colour, religion, or sexual orientation. When racially motivated hate occurs, we need swift and serious legal actions levied on those committing these crimes.
The presence of systemic racism and hatred limits our opportunity for success and severely impacts our communities of those targeted. WoodGreen embraces diversity and welcomes people from all places around the world.
WoodGreen continues to offer programs and wrap around services that support marginalized groups in Toronto. Through our Rites of Passage program, we help empower Black youth as they transition into adulthood and we continue to work in collaboration with our community partners to engage in equity work.
WoodGreen supports more initiatives and opportunities for conversation at all levels of government, institutions with corporate and private business leaders, police and first responders, and health services. More needs to be done and WoodGreen will join our colleagues and others in the community to end Anti-Black Racism.
ABOUT WOODGREEN COMMUNITY SERVICES (woodgreen.org): WoodGreen is one of the largest social service agencies in Toronto, serving 37,000 people each year. We offer over 75 programs and services tackling the social determinants that affect the health and well-being of individuals in our community.
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact: Eric Mariglia, Director of Public Affairs; [email protected]; 437-236-3417 (Cell)