New online tool for reporting hate and discrimination in Timmins

A pride flag that was damaged in Sault Ste. Marie earlier this year is seen in this file photo. Timmins and District Victim Services says acts of hate and discrimination aren't necessarily directed at an individual. (File)

The City of Timmins is making it easier for victims to report incidents of hate and discrimination through a new online reporting tool.

Created in partnership with Timmins and District Victim Services, the city said the goal is to offer victims a safe space to report their experience anonymously if they prefer or identify themselves and the level of support they require.

In a news release Tuesday, the city said acts of hate and discrimination include verbal abuse, intimidation, bullying, physical assault, online abuse, vandalism or destruction of property targeting an individual or group based on race, ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation or ability.

"Timmins and District Victim Services can provide emotional support, community resource information, and assist with filling a police report,” Melissa Turcotte, executive director of Timmins and District Victim Services, said in the news release.

"Data on the types of hate and discrimination that are happening in our community is invaluable to ensure that we are offering the types of support needed and have the capacity to offer assistance."

The reporting tool is hosted by Timmins and District Victim Services on their website.

A key priority of the plan is to address shared safety and well-being and gender-based violence.

"For the city, the data collected will allow us to work on prevention, which is ultimately our goal," Meagan Baranyk, community programs manager, said in the release.

"We will be able to address the underlying issues and help increase awareness and education about how hate and discrimination affect our community. Information about the types of incidents, the groups being targeted, and where the incidents are taking place will be shared anonymously with our community partners."

• Download the CTV News app now
• Get local breaking news alerts
• Daily newsletter with the top local stories emailed to your inbox

Turcotte said hate and discrimination isn’t necessarily directed at an individual.

"Community members who witness discriminatory messages or symbols painted on buildings, graffiti, vandalism, discriminatory posters or literature can also submit a report," she said.

"This is an opportunity to take positive action against forms of hate and discrimination."