Flag with swastika removed from Kitchener home, police investigating

Police say they are aware a home in Kitchener was displaying a flag with "offensive symbols."

On Monday, several reports were made to police about the flag at a home in Kitchener. Photos and videos sent to CBC News and shared on social media show it's a red, white and black flag featuring a swastika on the front of a single-detached home.

CBC News went to the neighbourhood on Thursday and saw that the flaghasbeen removed.

Police say they launched an investigation after receiving the reports.

"Members of our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Unit have been in dialogue with members of the community who have been impacted by the symbols displayed on the flag," Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS)said in a release.

"We understand that the presence of any symbol associated with hate can be deeply offensive. WRPS is committed to addressing any unlawful behaviour."

Displaying the swastika is not prohibited under the Criminal Code.

The police service also noted that people have the right to freedom of expression under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, but "offensive expression, rooted in hate, [has]no place in Waterloo region."

Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic says he learned about the flag from residents who raised concerns with him.

"As a community, we stand against those actions or symbols that are not consistent with love, inclusivity and a sense of belonging for all," he said in an emailed statement.

He said the flag "symbolizes hatred and one of the darkest periods in the history of our planet."

"While we recognize that as Canadians, we all have the right to freedom of expression under theCanadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, offensive expression,rooted in hate, has no place in Kitchener, in Canada or anywhere," he said.