Hamilton honours National Day of Remembrance and Action on Islamophobia

Seven years ago a lone gunman entered the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City and opened fire, killing six worshippers and wounding five others.

The murders sent shockwaves through the nation and condemnation from around the globe for the act of hatred.

Four years later the federal government recognized January 29 as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Islamophobia and today the Hamilton sign at City Hall will be lit up in green, symbolizing the colour of the carpet in the Mosque where victims and survivors last stood for prayer before the attack. As well, the Canadian flag will be lowered to half-mast.

“Today we remember with profound sadness the victims and survivors of the 2017 attack,” Mayor Andrea Horwath said in a statement. “The act of hatred sent ripples through our country, reminding all of the terrible consequences of letting Islamophobia and intolerance go unchecked.”

“The City of Hamilton stands with the Muslim community today and every day as we continued the important work of building a city where all are welcome to practice their faith freely, safely and without prejudice.”