Individuals or groups who identify as belonging to a hate group – with apparel, signage or verbally – will be turned away

(OTTAWA) – Canadian Blood Services is reminding Canadians that it will not tolerate the use of its locations or of the altruistic act of the gift of blood to propagate hateful views or beliefs. Canadian Blood Services was made aware that an organization with hateful and racist views planned to use the group’s blood donations to publicly draw attention to its views.

“We already have policies in place that state that we are committed to fostering an environment of respect and safety for our staff and for our donors,” said Dr. Graham Sher, CEO of Canadian Blood Services. “Given the information that we received and the current climate, we felt it important to take a firm stance against hate on behalf of our employees, our donors, and the Canadian patients we serve.”

At donation centres across the country, Canadian Blood Services employees will turn away individuals who wear apparel that identifies them as belonging to or being affiliated with a hate group. Canadian Blood Services also intends to turn away those who verbally self-identify as representing or donating on behalf of a hate group or bring any type of self-promoting signage.

“We will not legitimize these groups by allowing individuals to use blood donation as a means to convey their hateful views,” added Dr. Sher. “As we work to continue to ensure all patients have access to the blood and blood products they need, we hope that Canadians will stand with us and continue to come in to donate for no other reason than to save a life.”

Canadian Blood Services aims to be as inclusive as possible and maintain the safety and secure supply of blood products for all patients. On the eve of summer’s last long weekend – the Labour Day weekend – Canadian Blood Services is also reminding eligible donors to book appointments to help fill the current 25,000 appointment gap. To book an appointment today, locate a clinic, check your eligibility and more, download the GiveBlood app available for iOS on the App Store or for Android on Google Play or visit blood.ca.