The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) Hate Crimes Unit is investigating after a Pride sidewalk at the University of Saskatchewan was vandalized.Last week, the sidewalk was spray painted with the message "execute sodomites." The Hate Crimes Unit is asking the public to come forward with any information about the incident. The SPS told the Western Standard that "we did receive a report consistent with what you have provided and the SPS Hate Crimes Unit was assigned to the investigation. At this time, there are no further avenues to proceed with investigation and we would ask anyone with information that may assist to contact police at 306-975-8300 or submit a tip anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477."The University of Saskatchewan told the Western Standard they are “aware of this recent vandalism on campus. It was promptly removed and reported to the Saskatoon Police Service. While we acknowledge, accept and welcome diverse opinions and choices, we do not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or hate speech on our campuses and will pursue disciplinary measures against anyone who is found to have engaged in such behaviours. As this matter is with the Saskatoon Police Service, we will offer no further comment at this time.” This incident is not the first time a Pride sidewalk has been targeted. In 2020, a person was charged for spray painting "The hope for a sodomite is..." on a university Pride sidewalk.
