Clarington Releases Statement Condemning Incident at Orono Mosque

The Municipality of Clarington issued a statement on May 26 condemning a hate-motivated act that took place at a mosque in Orono. Mayor Adrian Foster said that the Durham Regional Police Service is investigating the incident and encouraged any witnesses to contact officers involved.

The municipal statement was released in response to what Foster referred to as an “incident of intolerance” at a local mosque. The statement addressed residents of Clarington and the Muslim community in particular.

In his statement, Foster said, “Religious hate and intolerance do not reflect our Clarington values.” He noted, “To our Muslim community and every resident who calls Clarington home: you are welcome and respected here.” Foster also stated that Clarington takes pride in its “commitment to equity, diversity and inclusiveness,” and described the community as one that seeks to be “a safe and supportive place for all.”

Tenzin Shomar, Chair of the Clarington Diversity Advisory Committee, described the act as “unsettling.” Shomar said, “Everyone should feel safe in their community, particularly at their place of worship.” The committee stated that it will continue to work with Council to address hate in Clarington.

No further details about the nature of the incident were provided in the municipality’s statement.