At this evening’s (Monday’s) city council meeting, members will be asked to approve a right-to-refuse clause to be included in the existing St. Thomas facility rental agreement.
According to a report from Adrienne Lacey Griffin, Director of Parks and Recreation, “In recent weeks, staff have received inquiries regarding the City’s ability to deny bookings to groups promoting antisemitism or other hate-related activities. To ensure that municipal facilities remain safe, inclusive, and respectful public spaces, staff sought legal review of potential policy wording.”
Under the clause the city reserves the right to deny, cancel, or terminate any facility booking, at any time, if it is determined that the intended use promotes or incites hatred, discrimination, or harassment on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected ground under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
The city’s legal counsel has confirmed that the proposed clause and policy do not contravene the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Written by Ian McCallum
