Haldimand County statement regarding unsanctioned event in Jarvis

On the evening of Wednesday, July 31, 2024, Haldimand County was made aware that an event organized by Diagolon, a suspected alt-right extremist group, was taking place in Jarvis at a county-owned hall operated by community volunteers. The hall was booked through an application process and made under a personal name, misrepresenting the event nature and intended facility use. The County and the Jarvis Lions Community Centre regret this occurred and would not have permitted the rental if the group affiliation or intentions had been disclosed.

“Haldimand County does not condone hate or racism,” says Mayor Shelley Ann Bentley. “We want to reassure our community that these types of events are not in keeping with our values of inclusion, equity and diversity. Our priority is to ensure that everyone feels safe in Haldimand County. Groups such as Diagolon who allegedly promote violence and racism are not welcome in the Haldimand community,” Bentley added.

“While the County has policies and procedures in place for the rental of its facilities, it is difficult to ensure people are using the facilities in an appropriate manner when they are providing false information on a rental application. County staff and volunteers will continue to work together to try to prevent this from occurring in Haldimand and will involve law enforcement as necessary,” stated County CAO Cathy Case.