Whitby, Ontario — A report detailing allegations of “racial micro-aggressions” and strained relationships among Whitby Town Council members is set to be discussed at a special meeting this afternoon. The investigation, conducted by Bernardi Human Resource Law, examined claims made by Councillor Steve Yamada regarding how he was treated during his brief tenure as deputy mayor in 2024.
The report, authored by employment lawyer Lauren Bernardi, concluded that Yamada was indeed treated “differently” by some colleagues and staff but found “insufficient evidence” to determine that his Japanese-Canadian heritage played a role in that treatment.
Yamada, who briefly held the largely ceremonial Deputy Mayor position in spring 2024, resigned after council changed its procedures for the rotating deputy role. During a heated meeting to confirm Councillor Niki Lundquist as deputy mayor, Yamada’s ally, Regional Councillor Chris Leahy, accused fellow council members of racism and subjecting Yamada to racial microaggressions. The meeting ended abruptly when Mayor Elizabeth Roy demanded that Leahy apologize or leave the chamber — a demand he refused.
Subsequently, both Yamada and Leahy were sanctioned by the town’s Integrity Commissioner for breaching the council’s code of conduct, resulting in a one-week pay suspension.
In her findings, Bernardi noted that the allegations were raised “in good faith” but painted a broader picture of a divided council. “Nearly everyone I interviewed noted that the working relationship within council has been fractious at times,” she wrote, adding that Leahy and Yamada were often perceived as being “on one side” against the rest of council. The relationship between Mayor Roy and Councillor Yamada was described as “particularly strained.”
Despite the tensions, Bernardi acknowledged that council business has continued, though she warned that personal conflicts and “cognitive biases” have affected how councillors perceive each other’s motives.
Mayor Roy told investigators that she had reservations about Yamada’s appointment as deputy mayor, citing a lack of alignment in priorities and concerns about his “divisive behaviour.” She stated that her position had nothing to do with his ethnicity but rather his approach to council work. “It was important to have a deputy mayor who would not undermine her priorities,” the mayor said.
Calling the process “difficult” for both council and staff, Roy said the report offers an “important opportunity for reflection and improvement.” She added that she intends to introduce a notice of motion asking staff to review the Council Code of Conduct and recommend updates if necessary.
“This is the final year of the current council term, and significant work remains,” said Roy. “My focus remains on serving the people of Whitby, strengthening our community, and delivering results that make life better for residents. I am committed to doing that work with respect, transparency, and integrity.”
The council meeting scheduled for this afternoon is expected to feature an open discussion of the findings and next steps as the town seeks to rebuild trust and cohesion among its elected officials.