A Regina doughnut shop has been gaining the community’s support after numerous acts of vandalism, including racist slurs being spray-painted on their windows.
“Wow Regina wow! When we posted yesterday our hearts were sad for our friend and neighbour Country Corner Donuts,” Auto Electric Service said in a Facebook post Saturday.
“Starting last night you showed up and blew this coffee shop away! We are hearing stories of hockey teams getting donuts, line ups to the door for sandwiches and now pictures of an empty donut wall.”
Country Corner Donuts, owned by Vuong Pham, has been targeted over the past few months by unknown individuals. Pham told CBC reporters the vandalism began with rocks being thrown through the shop’s windows, but has now expanded to racist messages being plastered across the building.
This has inspired Regina’s community to come together in efforts to support Pham and his business. Other establishments and the general population are endorsing it through promotional posts on social media and in-person visits to the shop.
The parking lot on the corner of Broad Street and Dewdney was full of vehicles Monday morning, as customers safely gathered inside. The long, socially-distanced lineup was an indication that Country Corner Donuts is continuing to bring city residents together, despite the business’ most recent disturbances.
After the damage was inflicted upon Country Corner Donuts, many of their loyal customers arrived to restore anything that had been broken. According to CBC, establishments such as Auto Electric Service had spoken up about the aftermath of the devastation.
Residents of the city have also amplified their support through social media.
“One of my fave spots in the neighbourhood for a quick snack/lunch!” Eric Bell posted on Twitter. “They’re the nicest people and our warehouse district just wouldn’t be the same without them. Sad and disgusted to hear they’ve faced vandalism and hate.”
A thread of acknowledgment on Reddit had also been gaining attention, with users leaving comments including “Best donuts in the city,” and “Way to go Regina!! We decided to try them out, and there’s been so much love that they were having trouble keeping any donuts out.”
Devastated by the acts of vandalism, but remaining hopeful by the kindness that has been received from the community, Pham spoke to CBC on his thoughts.
“Most Canadian people (are) wonderful and this country (is a) beautiful country. But some are bad apples,” Pham told reporters.
“Somebody maybe they… don’t like you or something. They see you so happy or they see you do good. That happens all the time, anywhere.”
