A firefighting organization in Canada is facing significant criticism online after four attendees dressed in Ku Klux Klan costumes were spotted at their Halloween bash in North Sydney, Nova Scotia.
The group donned white robes and pointed hats, leading the North Sydney Firefighters Club to distance themselves from the incident, stating that the individuals “are in no way, shape or form” affiliated with them.
In a Facebook post, the club admitted, “We made a mistake!” and vowed to improve in the future.
The organization issued an apology, expressing regret to anyone hurt by their oversight.
Despite their statements, many social media users criticized the club, labeling the incident as “blatant racism.” One user remarked, “Apologies mean nothing without real action behind them.”
Further comments described the apology as “pathetic” and “weak.”
According to Fire Chief Lloyd MacIntosh, the volunteers on duty allowed the individuals to enter and attempted to have them remove their hoods; some refused. One attendee was also found with a cross, which was taken away by staff.
“They were allowed in, and they shouldn’t have been,” MacIntosh acknowledged.
The incident has also led to threats against the firefighters, as Deputy Fire Chief Wade Gouthro stated, “This is not who we are or what we stand for.” He emphasized their commitment to serve the community positively.
Gouthro expressed heartfelt remorse, stating, “We would never intentionally hurt or insult anyone. We want to be better and learn from this.” He noted that he was not working that night and that Halloween costumes can be unpredictable.
“We often think of costumes without considering their historical implications,” Gouthro added. “You are right; they shouldn’t have been allowed in. We will do better.”