Statement: National Day of Remembrance of the Québec City Mosque Attack & Action Against Islamophobia

Today, we mark the National Day of Remembrance of the Québec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia. 

On January 29, 2017, six lives were taken away in an act of terror. We remember Ibrahima Barry, Mamadou Tanou Barry, Khaled Belkacemi, Abdelkrim Hassane, Azzeddine Soufiane and Aboubaker Thabti - men who were murdered while worshipping at the Centre Culturel Islamique de Québec.  

This was an attack on the fundamental values of safety, dignity, and freedom of worship. It was a painful reminder that Islamophobia is real; it causes deep harm, has devastating consequences, and that we all share a responsibility to confront it wherever it appears.  

We stand firmly against Islamophobia, hatred, and all acts of terror. No one should ever fear for their safety because of their faith or identity. Every community deserves to live in peace, dignity, and security. 

This commitment requires ongoing action — listening, learning, and speaking up against hate. 

Today and every day, we must identify and address discrimination, support those affected by it, and work together to build a Kitchener and a world where everyone belongs. It takes each of us to choose to act with intention and courage. 

We must continue to foster a city, a country, and a world that is inclusive, respectful, and grounded in kindness and compassion. When we choose compassion over division and stand up for one another, we build a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and able to thrive. 

On this National Day of Remembrance of the Québec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia, I urge you to learn more, support each other, and stand firmly against all forms of hate. 

As part of this commitment, I encourage you to support the National Council of Canadian Muslims’ Green Square Campaign. The green square represents the green carpets of the Centre Culturel Islamique de Québec where the victims last knelt in prayer.  

In the week leading up to January 29, wear the green square in memory of the victims and in solidarity with the survivors, their families and friends, and Muslim communities across Canada.  

The Campaign is a call to action for all Canadians to stand together for a society free of hatred and Islamophobia, not just today, but every day!  

Mayor Berry Vrbanovic, on behalf of Kitchener Council