Photo Credit: iqra.ca
Mar
The Coquitlam RCMP and the B.C. hate-crime team are investigating the March 10 vandalism at the Port Coquitlam's Masjid Al Hidayah as a potential hate crime.
The vandalism included graffiti with a racial slur.
“This is extremely disturbing ”¦ and psychologically jarring, as the masjid represents a place of sanctuary and peace,” a local member of the Muslim community said.
Muslim civil rights groups are condemning the incident and applauding the decision of law enforcement officials to investigate the incident as a potential hate crime.
“We call on politicians, security officials and community leaders in Port Coquitlam to stand firm against all forms of hate, racism and xenophobia. These acts and the physical damage they cause represent cowardly attempts to intimidate and divide communities by further stigmatizing visible and vulnerable minorities,” said Ihsaan Gardee, CAIR-CAN Executive Director.
Canadian Islamic Congress national president, Wahida Valiante, is gratified that the incident is being taken seriously by the local RCMP but is concerned about the effect on the community.
“Although this is an isolated incident and most likely the result of ignorance and mischief, it is unsettling to the Muslim community and especially frightening for children using the facility,” said Mrs. Wahida Valiante. “The targeting of religious places is always abhorrent; it erodes the fundamental Canadian values of mutual respect on which our diverse society is built.”
The CIC is urging local Muslim communities to assist police by reporting any suspicious activity.
“It is important always to respond in a measured way and not give in to fear or anger, regardless of whether such attacks are random or intentional,” said Mrs. Valiante. “To do anything else is to let hate and bigotry win.”
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