‘I was extremely offended:’ Tiny Township to denounce racism in response to complaint over Confederate flag

The Township of Tiny is taking a stand against racism.

On Nov. 30, council unanimously agreed that the municipality should make a public statement in support of inclusivity and against racism.

“I personally would like to see a public statement, but I think actions speak louder than words,” said Coun. Cindy Hastings. “We need to think about what we can do, opposed to just say. I think there are ways we can recognize those in our municipality who are maybe subject to racism.”

This summer, the township received an email from a concerned citizen who spotted a Confederate flag in the front window of a home at the corner of Oliver Drive and Fanella Road, just north of Balm Beach. 

“I couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” wrote Reuben Hunter. “I am disgusted that this symbol of racism, white supremacy, and hatred toward minorities is being displayed in the front window for all to see. It is visual hate speech, and I was extremely offended simply by the sight of it.”

Hunter called for action and requested council ban the sale and display of the Confederate flag in the township.

Council briefly discussed the topic on July 6 and requested a staff report outlining the options the municipality could take.

Those options were presented to council on Nov. 30, along with the legal advice that Barriston Law had regarding the exact same issue.

“The township does not have jurisdiction to prohibit the flying of the Confederate flag, as this freedom of expression is protected by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms,” wrote Sarah Hahn, a senior associate with Barriston. “A bylaw passed with the intention of limiting freedom of expression would be quashed by the court for being outside its jurisdiction and found invalid for being in conflict with the Charter.”

Based on this legal opinion, Tiny Township staff recommended that the municipality take the same course of action as Clearview Township and issue a public statement against racism. Staff will draft up a statement and present it to council at a future meeting.