Thousands attended a vigil in London, Ontario for a Muslim family killed in what police are calling a violent act of hate.
A mother, father, grandmother and a teenage girl were killed in the hit and run attack. A nine year old boy, who is also a member of the Muslim family was injured and is in hospital.
A family member identified those lost as 46-year-old Salman Afzaal, his 44-year-old wife Madiha, their 15-year-old daughter Yumna, and their 74-year-old grandmother.
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh says this horrible act of terror has stripped a beautiful family from us, “We have children that are worried that they might look too Muslim if they wear a hijab. This act of terror was committed with the purpose of driving fear into the hearts of the Muslim community.”
A 20-year-old man has been arrested and charged with four counts of first degree murder and one count of attempted murder. Police say the family was out for walk on Sunday, when they were struck by a pick-up truck. The suspect was arrested seven kilometres away from the scene.
Singh used strong words, as he expressed support for the for the Muslim community, “I want to say to my sisters who wear a hijab and to my brothers who wrap their heads, we will not cower in fear. We will wear our turbans and our hijabs with pride, because we are proud of who we are. We will not let terror win.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also addressed those in attendance, stating, “You are not alone. All Canadians mourn with you and stand with you, tonight and always.”
He added that Islamophobia has had a big effect on Muslims across the country. “Islamophobia is real. Racism is real. You should not have to face hate in your communities, in your country. We can and we will act. We can and we will choose a better way.”
Several other dignitaries including Conservative leader Erin O’Toole also offered words of condolence.
