Mississauga (Rajeev Sharma): In a historic and unanimous decision, the City of Mississauga has become the first municipality in Ontario to formally recognize Anti-Hindu Hate. The resolution was passed on November 5, 2025, marking a landmark moment for the Hindu community across Canada.
The motion, introduced by Councillor Deepika Damerla, acknowledges the increasing incidents of hate, discrimination, and vandalism targeting Hindu Canadians and their places of worship. It calls upon city authorities, Peel Regional Police, and interfaith organizations to work together on education and outreach initiatives to combat prejudice and promote harmony.
The Mississauga City Council vote received unanimous support from all members, reflecting the city’s commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion.
According to the official council documents, the motion states that Mississauga “formally condemns anti-Hindu hate in all its forms, including verbal, physical, and online abuse.” It also recognizes the invaluable contributions of the Hindu community to the city’s cultural, economic, and social growth.
Community organizations, including the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), welcomed the resolution, calling it a “historic milestone” that sets an example for other municipalities across Canada.
The decision follows several incidents of Hinduphobic graffiti and vandalism in the Greater Toronto Area, which had raised concerns among Hindu Canadians about rising intolerance and the need for official recognition of such hate.
This recognition makes Mississauga the first city in Ontario and one of the first in Canada to take a formal stand against anti-Hindu hate, paving the way for broader awareness, education, and prevention initiatives nationwide.
