MAY 2022

WHEREAS, more than 7,000 City of Thunder Bay residents are from Asian origins, and the racial diversity of the City of Thunder Bay must be recognized and valued; and

WHEREAS, The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms 15 (1) states that Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability; and

WHEREAS, According to Statistics Canada Police-reported hate crimes against East and South East Asians has increased 301% in 2020; and

WHEREAS, Stand With Asians Coalition (SWAC) brings allies together, across our country to raise awareness and to combat anti-Asian racism by calling out racism where it occurs each and every time; and

WHEREAS, aiming to maintain our values as inclusive and racially diverse Canadians, we support the Stand With Asians Coalition to build a stronger, more inclusive society where everyone can feel safe, happy and healthy; and

WHEREAS, the City of Thunder Bay’s respect. initiative reminds each of us to treat each other with dignity and to create a more positive community that celebrates our differences and builds respect in all aspects of city life.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Bill Mauro, Mayor of the City of Thunder Bay, do hereby proclaim May 10, 2022 as the Day of Action Against Asian Racism, in the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario, as well as the month of May as Asian Heritage Month.