Nine years ago, six Muslim men were killed at the Quebec City Mosque and an entire community lost their sense of safety and peace. Today, on National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia, we remember the lives lost in a senseless and horrific act of violence.
In recent years, police-reported hate crimes targeting Muslims have risen sharply in Canada. This day is a time of mourning and reflection while also being a reminder of where unchecked discrimination, violence and hatred can lead. It also encourages every one of us to learn more about Islamophobia, its history, and the way it continues to impact Muslim communities
U of G is home to students, faculty, and staff from all around the world, who bring with them different faiths, cultures, identities, and lived experiences. Our classrooms and workplaces are stronger when everyone feels safe and welcome to participate. Days like these serve as a reminder that inclusion and belonging cannot be taken for granted and that education plays an important role in building bridges, challenging misinformation, and confronting bias and intolerance.
I encourage you to take a moment today to learn more about allyship and how to identify and dismantle hatred. As we face growing global challenges, it is more important now than ever before that we work together to create a campus where everyone can thrive and be successful. The Office of Diversity and Human Rights has a list of resources available to support the building of equitable and inclusive environments on our website. The Government of Canada also has some great resources on combatting Islamophobia. It is up to all of us to foster a U of G community where everyone feels safe, included, and welcome.
So today, as we remember those we lost, let us commit to standing against hate in any form, to caring for one another, and to building a community rooted in respect and belonging.
Indira Naidoo-Harris
AVP, Diversity and Human Rights