June 4, 2018

WHEREAS, hatred provokes violence and takes an enormous toll on our community; and

WHEREAS, bullying can happen anytime, anywhere to people of all ages, genders, races and educational levels; and

WHEREAS, everyone can stop bullying. Adults have a responsibility to protect and serve as role models for children and children can do their part by speaking up to an adult they trust when they notice bullying happening; and

WHEREAS, it is essential that, within a community, all people feel accepted, supported and valued. This can be achieved through social inclusion, which is a behavior all children can be taught; and

WHEREAS, when we remove weeds from our yards and gardens, it symbolizes the hate and prejudice that must be removed from our community; and

WHEREAS, the “Weed Out Hate” initiative will call upon children to remove hate and prejudice and plant Seeds of Peace; and

WHEREAS, Sunflowers growing on our city flower beds and community gardens will remind us of the need to remove hate and prejudice and replace it with love and support, just as we care for the flowers which we have planted.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Keith Hobbs, Mayor of the City of Thunder Bay, do hereby proclaim June 4, 2018 as “Weed Out Hate Day” in the District of Thunder Bay.

KEITH HOBBS,
MAYOR