Clarington residents are being invited to a free community meeting this month focused on hate reporting, disinformation, respectful dialogue and building stronger connections across the municipality.
The Clarington community meeting, called “Together, We Are Clarington: A Community Conversation,” will take place Wednesday, Sept. 23 at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex in Bowmanville.
The event runs from 7 to 9 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free and no advance registration is required.
Residents can learn how hate incidents are reported
The Municipality of Clarington is organizing the event in partnership with the Region of Durham, Victim Services of Durham Region and Clarington Library, Museums and Archives.
Presentations and discussions will help residents understand the difference between a hate incident and a hate crime and explain what resources are available when someone experiences or witnesses hate.
Participants will also learn about the Community-Based Hate Reporting Program and local services available to residents who need information or support.
Community Safety and Well-Being initiatives will also form part of the evening’s program.
Meeting will examine disinformation
Another major focus will be helping residents recognize and prevent the spread of disinformation.
The Municipality says participants will receive practical tools for navigating different perspectives and having meaningful, respectful conversations with neighbours and other community members.
Local community organizations, cultural and faith groups and service providers will also be represented, giving attendees an opportunity to learn more about organizations working to strengthen belonging and community connections.
Mayor Adrian Foster has described the event as an opportunity for residents to learn and grow together as neighbours.
Event follows earlier Clarington controversy
The upcoming gathering follows concerns raised earlier this year after social-media posts targeted a Muslim farmer in the Bowmanville area.
Claims circulated online alleging an illegal slaughterhouse was operating on the property.
According to previous reporting, municipal, regional and provincial authorities investigated the allegations and found them to be false, but the claims continued circulating online.
The controversy contributed to an earlier community gathering where residents discussed the impact of online hate and ways to support people who felt targeted or unsafe.
The Sept. 23 event expands that conversation by providing structured presentations, reporting information, community resources and opportunities for residents to connect.
Part of broader inclusion work in Clarington
The meeting also connects with Clarington’s ongoing “Together, We Are Clarington” initiative.
The broader campaign focuses on diversity, belonging and taking action against racism, discrimination and hate.
It supports the Municipality’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Anti-Racism strategy and provides residents with information about recognizing discrimination, reporting hate and supporting inclusive communities.
The Municipality says the Sept. 23 gathering is intended for residents of all ages, backgrounds and experiences.
No registration required for Sept. 23 meeting
The Clarington community meeting will be held in the Full Hall at Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex, 2440 Durham Highway 2 in Bowmanville.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the program scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m.
There is no registration fee or advance registration requirement, and light refreshments will be available.
Residents will be able to listen to presentations, ask questions, connect with local organizations and learn about tools intended to help build a more informed and inclusive community.
