Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs Percy Paris expressed concern and disappointment yesterday after learning a family in Newport were the targets of an alleged cross burning and racial slurs at their home early Sunday morning.
Paris, who is black, was born in nearby Windsor. He hadn’t heard of the news until contacted by Metro around noon time.
“I’m very, very disturbed, in this day and age, that we had a cross burning anywhere in North America,” Paris said. “Whether it be in Hants County, or Halifax, or wherever. It’s just very disturbing and very, very upsetting — I’m shook by this.”
Paris said he was especially concerned for the well being of the family’s five children.
“I would like to think the community … will rally around this family,” he said. “The kids have to feel safe … the safety and the well-being of the children are No 1.
“It’s African Heritage Month … this is supposed to be a good month, about celebration and education and moving forward,” he added. “This certainly puts a cloud on a lot of things.”
