The North Sydney Firefighters Club in Nova Scotia has issued an apology following backlash over a group of Halloween party attendees dressed in Ku Klux Klan robes and hoods.
Photos of the four individuals, one holding a wooden cross, circulated widely online, sparking outrage from some people.
The fire department said that the individuals were not affiliated with the organisation, and that admitting them in such attire was an “unintentional oversight”.
Fire Chief Lloyd MacIntosh acknowledged the lapse, explaining that volunteers at the event later removed the cross, while Deputy Chief Wade Gouthro expressed regret on social media, stating that the incident does not reflect the values of the department and that accusations of racism were deeply painful.
The fire department’s response comes as police investigate the incident to determine if any hate crime charges are warranted. Historically, the KKK is known for its extremist ideology in the US, with former branches active in Canada as well.
Although the organisation’s influence has significantly diminished, this incident serves as a reminder of its controversial legacy. The North Sydney Firefighters Club has asked for “public forgiveness”, assuring that it does not support any form of racial or religious discrimination.
A group of people decided it would be a great idea to dress as members of the KKK for Halloween and attend an event at the North Sidney Fire Fighters Club in Sidney, Nova Scotia. They were even allowed to bring a cross inside with them. NSFFC has since released a minimal apology. pic.twitter.com/nV9BnzGioL
— TikTok Scientist (@TiktokScientist) October 27, 2024
‘Canadian firefighters’ organization is receiving backlash on social media after four people who appeared to be dressed as Ku Klux Klan members were seen at the organization’s Halloween party.’https://t.co/HDI5mM6xwe pic.twitter.com/MSInpSge5u
— The Daily Sneed™ (@Tr00peRR) October 30, 2024
Never apologise.
It was a joke, it was done in jest. A Halloween goof. Remember fun? Remember comedy?
Or do the offended pearl clutches genuinely believe that the fire department were literally gonna string some poor soul up and have themselves “a good ol lynch’n’’?
Such a stupid time in history to be living in 😑
“appeared to be dressed as Ku Klux Klan members” – with emphasis on “appeared”. They look like ghosts to me. It’s Halloween you morons!