#WiTOpoli

May 1, 2014 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Mayor Rob Fords latest comments set dangerous tone for 2014 electoral race TORONTO - Women in Toronto Politics (WiTOpoli) stands in solidarity with Karen Stintz and the women of Toronto City Council in denouncing Mayor Rob Ford for his most recent alleged comments, which include violently misogynistic statements, racial slurs and homophobic remarks. This is not the first time Ford has been caught on tape and in Council chambers making racist statements against a number of marginalized communities in Toronto, and homophobic remarks about elected officials. The time has come for us to stop ignoring Mayor Ford's true nature: he is a racist, misogynist, homophobic man of privilege, with a history of violent behaviour. His most recent choice to take a leave of absence in order to seek help may appear to indicate that he is addressing these problems, but, problematically, Mayor Ford has not apologized for his statements. As Councillor Kristyn WongTam said, "Mayor Ford might partially rehabilitate his health with intentional efforts but thirty days is not going to cure a grown man's racism, misogyny, homophobia and chronic tendencies to break the law." We call on Mayor Rob Ford to issue a full apology to Karen Stintz and to the City of Toronto for his remarks. As an incumbent mayoral candidate his views create an uncomfortable workplace for his female colleagues, LGBTQ colleagues and colleagues of colour, and are setting a dangerously inequitable tone for the 2014 election and for the city at large. A vibrant, diverse city like Toronto can no longer allow itself to be led by a mayor who clearly does not reflect its inclusive values. About Women in Toronto Politics Women in Toronto Politics is a non-partisan grassroots group that uses events and online channels to amplify womens voices in Toronto civic discourse. -30For interviews or further information, contact: Abigail Plener, Media Relations Lead, Women in Toronto Politics abby.plener@gmail.com (647) 629-9694
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