Guelph is responding to the death of five people and the injury to 19 others in a shooting at the Quebec Islamic Cultural Centre in Sainte Foy in typical Guelph fashion.
“In Guelph today, we are grieving with the people of Sainte-Foy, and with Muslim communities across Canada who have been shaken by this cowardly act of hatred. We are praying for the victims and their families. We stand together with our Muslim neighbours, and we vow to stand up to hatred and intolerance wherever we find it,” said Mayor Cam Guthrie in a statement.
“We are lowering our flag in support of the Muslim community, and in particular the individuals belonging to Le Centre Culturel Islamique de Québec," added Guelph’s Chief Administrative Officer Derrick Thomson. "This was a senseless attack on innocent people during a moment of prayer. Our hearts are with the victims, families and the Sainte-Foy community today.”
The President of the University of Guelph joined the chorus. “This is a distressing and heartbreaking tragedy, and our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” said Franco Vaccarino. “It is also a sad reminder of the ongoing importance of connecting communities and the core beliefs of inclusiveness and tolerance that define this country and the U of G community.”
The flags have been lowered to half-mast at both City Hall and on campus in sympathy with the victims.
In addition to the comments of support for Quebec City and members of the Muslim Community, a candlelight vigil will be held at the Muslim Society of Guelph at 286 Water St. starting at 6:30 pm tonight.
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