Joint Statement on Quebec Mosque Shooting from Leading Canadian Muslim Organizations

TORONTO, Feb. 1, 2017 /CNW/ - The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) Canada, the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA), and the Muslim Association of Canada (MAC), strongly condemn the attack at the Centre Culturel Islamique de Québec on Sainte-Foy St. where it has been reported that 6 congregants have been killed and many injured. We trust law enforcement to investigate and take swift action against the perpetrators.

We offer our prayers for the victims and our most profound condolences to all those touched by this senseless bloodshed.

Sunday's shooting is part of an epidemic of Islamophobia and attacks on Canadian Muslims, their institutions, and their communities across the country. It is dismaying that many lives have been lost due to hate-fueled violence and terrorism. This should have no place in our country, Canada.

Sunday's event has a detrimental impact on all Canadian Muslims and has heightened concern for the safety and security of Muslims not only in Quebec but across the country. We urge mosques and schools to take immediate safety measures and maintain alertness over the coming days.

We urge the Canadian government and law enforcement agencies to direct attention to the security of Canadian Muslims and their institutions across the country. We welcome and appreciate the statements condemning this act of terrorism by our Honourable Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the Premier of Quebec Philippe Couillard, and the many elected representatives across the country.

Canadian Muslims across Canada have witnessed an outpouring of support, sympathy, and solidarity from their fellow citizens. Diversity is our strength as a nation and it is during these testing times that we must stand united.

SOURCE Muslim Association of Canada

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ISNA Canada, 905-403 8406; ICNA Canada, 905-257-4262; Muslim Association of Canada, 905-822-2626