Haliburton Highlands OPP are investigating after a homophobic insult was found inscribed on the Head Lake Park gazebo last week.
Sgt. Paul McDonald told The Highlander police followed up on a complaint late last week. The OPP has been working with Dysart et al township to obtain video footage from the park, in the hopes of identifying the culprit.
“We unfortunately do not have a timeframe of when this mischief occurred. Haliburton OPP does not have any further leads on this investigation,” McDonald said.
Highlands resident Matthew Saade said he was participating in an early morning Tai Chi class Oct. 2 when another participant noticed someone had vandalized the gazebo with permanent marker. The letters ‘A+H’ were written within a love heart – usually a sign of two people being in a relationship, with the letters representing names.
The word “faggot” – a derogatory term for gay people – was written beside the love heart.
“The message specifically targeted the LGBTQ+ community, underscoring the persistent presence of homophobia and hate in our community,” said Saade, who is gay.
He feels the incident highlights the importance of visible symbols like Pride flags, saying there should be more education and promotion of the LGBTQ+ community in Haliburton County.
“These are not mere gestures, but powerful statements of solidarity and equality. They stand for inclusion and human dignity, and it is crucial that our elected officials lead by example, demonstrating that hate has no place here,” Saade said.
Minden Hills routinely flies the rainbow flag during Pride Month in June and again for Minden Pride festivities in August, but Algonquin Highlands, Dysart et al, and Highlands East have yet to follow suit.
Minden Pride co-chair Chris Hewson said he was “deeply saddened” when he heard about the vandalism.
“Head Lake Park is meant to be a place where everyone – regardless of who they love or how they identify – should feel welcome, safe, and respected,” Hewson said. “Acts of hate like this remind us that the work of building a truly inclusive community is far from over.”
Hewson added, “Minden Pride stands firm in our commitment to fostering love, understanding, and unity. We encourage our neighbours to join us in rejecting hate and building a future where all people are free to live authentically and without fear.”
Dysart’s programs and events manager, Andrea Mueller, confirmed the township’s parks staff removed the graffiti Oct. 8.
McDonald encouraged anyone with information to contact police, saying all tips will be investigated. Call Haliburton Highlands OPP at 1-888-310-1122, Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or submit online at khcrimestoppers.com
