Nepean, ON – The Ottawa police and the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board are both investigating after two students found a swastika on the floor at Sir Robert Borden High School on Dec. 1.
The students, who had stayed after school, were called into a room, where they found the swastika. As the students saw it, another student made a Nazi salute gesture, according to a letter sent to families Monday.
“This is a blatant act of antisemitism, which is absolutely unacceptable,” said the letter from school principal Matthew Gagnier. “Every student deserves the right to feel safe at school, regardless of religion/creed, race, background, ability, gender or sexual orientation.”
In consultation with the parents of those affected, it was determined that the school would wait until the completion of an investigation before communicating with the entire school community about this incident. With the investigation well underway, the students responsible will face proper disciplinary and educative measures, said Gagnier.
“This incident is disturbing and comes at a time when we are seeing examples of antisemitism in our community, on social media and around the world. This affects our sense of safety. To the Sir Robert Borden community, know that we unequivocally condemn antisemitism and are here to support you.”
The Ottawa police say the incident was reported on Dec. 5. An investigation by the hate crime and bias unit is ongoing.
