Belleville’s signs against Hate

Belleville has its first official sign to promote intolerance for hate and discrimination.

The city’s first “Hate Has No Home Here” sign was installed in front of city hall on Tuesday.

Mayor Mitch Panciuk, Councillor Sean Kelly, Councillor Garnet Thompson, board member Cat Fisher of the City of Belleville’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and Operations Supervisor Kyle HawkinsSchulz were on hand to install the first “Hate Has No Home Here” sign.

Chair of the city’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Councillor Sean Kelly, says the signs have been popping up in a number of municipalities across the province.

Kelly adds “Our hope is that they will not only represent our city’s intolerance for hate and discrimination of any kind, but also promote inclusivity.”

He tells Quinte News, “It’s really important. We know it’s certainly been a hot button issue over last several years. Hate Has No Home Here was spearheaded by Halton Police Service.”

Kelly added, “It was brought to city hall’s attention by a resident on social media.”

“Our hope is that they will not only represent our city’s intolerance for hate and discrimination of any kind, but also promote inclusivity and show residents and visitors alike that all are truly welcome here in Belleville.”

“Hate Has No Home Here” signs will be installed throughout the city at various municipal facilities and parks, Belleville Police Services and the Belleville Chamber of Commerce.