Windsorites unite to honour Quebec terror victims

 

 

Hundreds of people gathered around City Hall on a cold and windy night Jan. 31 to pay homage to the lives lost during Sunday’s terrorist attack at a Quebec Mosque.

Members of the community opened their hearts as council members and local religious leaders stepped up to the podium and addressed them. The message was of unity and peace. Mayor Drew Dilkens went as far as to condemn any isolation or persecution of faith.

Windsor, the fourth most multicultural city in Canada, was one of many cities across the nation to take part in a candle-light vigil this week.

Others gathered to protest the recent immigration restrictions imposed by U.S. president Donald Trump.  Regardless, there was an overwhelming sense of togetherness.

“Let’s all stay united,” said Rania Adel-larloud. “As a Muslim, I’ve been here for 13 years and I’ve never felt different.”

Last week, Trump signed an executive order to ban refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries. The act was not only controversial among Americans, but caught the attention of leaders around the world.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated he will continue to defend “Canadian values” while addressing the House of Commons on Jan. 30.

“What Trump has said and done to incite these types of activities is a real problem,” said Windsor resident Enver Villiamizar. “We have to protect ourselves and not permit anyone to feel isolated.”

Villiamizar carried a sign at the vigil reading, “Our security lies in our fight for the rights of all.”

The shooting at the Quebec Islamic Cultural Centre in Quebec City took the matter of security to a new-level as it was revealed the alleged shooter, 27-year-old Alexandre Bissonette, identified as a Trump supporter.

Bissonette has been charged with killing six people and attempting to kill five others who were wounded in the attack.

Canada is known worldwide for its diversity, and law enforcement is preparing strategies to keep the freedom of said diversity intact.

“Our message is not just for the Muslim community, it is for the entire community and that is ‘see something, say something,’” said Windsor Police Diversity Officer Wren Dosant. “Love will always conquer hate.”

To end the vigil, Mayor Drew Dilkens was joined by the people gathered in singing O’ Canada, with their candles raised toward the sky.