A Day of Remembrance for Our London Family

June 5, 2023

Tomorrow marks the solemn occasion of the Day of Remembrance for Our London Family. The Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW) stands in solidarity with Muslim communities, and all communities affected by hate and violence, to reflect, mourn, and renew our commitment to building a Canada free from hate.

It has been two years since the horrifying act of Islamophobic violence claimed the lives of four members of the Afzaal family in London, Ontario. The pain and grief caused by this tragedy remain deep within our hearts. We remember and honour the lives of Salman Afzaal, Madiha Salman, Yumna Afzaal, and Talat Afzaal, who were taken from us in a senseless act of hatred.

Since that fateful day, our nation has embarked on a journey of reflection, self-examination, and action. We have witnessed an outpouring of support from all corners of society, demonstrating the resilience, compassion, and unity that define us as Canadians. It is heartening to see Canadians of all backgrounds coming together to reject hate and work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting society.

While progress has been made, we acknowledge that the work is far from over. Islamophobia, racism, and other forms of hate continue to plague our communities. Systemic barriers persist, hindering the full participation and well-being of Muslim women and other marginalized groups. As the Canadian Council of Muslim Women, we remain committed to challenging these barriers and advocating for social justice, equality, and the rights of all individuals.

In our ongoing pursuit of justice, we call on all levels of government to strengthen legislation against hate crimes and regulation of platforms that enable hate to be perpetuated online, ensuring that those who perpetrate and enable acts of hate are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. We urge political leaders, policymakers, and institutions to address the root causes of Islamophobia and other forms of discrimination and to foster inclusive environments that celebrate diversity.

To build a Canada free from hate, it is crucial that education and awareness initiatives are implemented at all levels of society. We encourage schools, community organizations, and workplaces to engage in dialogue, foster interfaith and intercultural understanding, and empower individuals to challenge stereotypes and prejudices. Together, we can dismantle the walls of ignorance and build bridges of empathy and respect.

As we remember the London family and countless others who have been affected by acts of hate, let us transform our sorrow into action. Let us strive for a Canada where no family has to endure the pain of bigotry, where every individual feels safe, and where diversity is celebrated as a strength. We stand united against hate and are committed to working towards a brighter and more inclusive future.

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