NEWS RELEASE
Sunday August 4, 2024
Pickering’s mayor Kevin Ashe labels residents of Durham as racists. Mr. Mayor, I condemn, in the strongest possible terms, your recent comments labeling my supporters and the residents of Durham as racists. This behavior is absolutely disgusting and beneath the dignity of your office. It is disgraceful that you would resort to such baseless and inflammatory rhetoric simply because individuals hold views that differ from your own or the Council’s.
Your comments, made over social media in the group “Free Speech Pickering,” are not just an isolated incident. This is not the first time you have resorted to name-calling and derogatory remarks towards those who do not support you. In the past, you have called them nutcases, wackos, Nazis, and the list goes on and on. Such behavior is unworthy of a leader who should be fostering unity and respectful dialogue within our community.
It is also deeply concerning and equally reprehensible that Councillor Mara Nagy would even like such a post. This endorsement of your divisive language by an elected official is a stark reminder of the toxic political climate that you are perpetuating.
Your attempt to vilify and marginalize those who stand in opposition to your policies not only disrespects the diverse perspectives within our community but also undermines the very principles of democratic discourse. Durham deserves a leader who can engage with differing viewpoints respectfully and constructively, not one who resorts to divisive name-calling and baseless accusations.
Your words are not only offensive but also a stark reminder of the importance of robust and respectful debate in our society. We must rise above such pettiness and work towards building a community where all voices are heard and respected, regardless of political alignment.
As an elected official, I cannot believe the disturbing behavior and rhetoric that has been emanating not only from the Mayor’s office but also from the City of Pickering. I always knew that politics could be a dirty game, but this behavior goes beyond dirty — it’s profoundly disturbing. The residents of Durham deserve better. They deserve leaders who foster unity, respect, and constructive dialogue, not those who resort to divisive and offensive tactics. It is time for a change, and I am committed to standing up for the integrity and dignity of our community.
I call on you to retract your statement and to apologize to the people of Durham. It is high time we focus on meaningful dialogue and cooperation rather than resorting to harmful and unfounded labels.
Since
Lisa Robinson
… putting people first
