EDMONTON COMMUNITIES STAND BY THE VICTIMS OF RECENT MOSQUE SHOOTINGS IN CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND
The Edmonton Council of Muslim Communities (ECMC) has been deeply shocked by the heinous and pre-meditated attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, during the Friday afternoon prayers. As per the latest reports, this senseless attack has claimed 49 lives and left around two dozen more injured. Our first thoughts and prayers are, of course, with the victims of this horrible act.
While these shootings have occurred half a world away from home, they do bring back memories of a similar Islamophobic attack on unsuspecting worshippers at a Quebec mosque barely two years ago. Together, these tragic incidents also underscore the need for all our faith and secular communities to come together in a spirit of solidarity where hope, harmony and security always triumphs over hate, intolerance and fear.
Towards this end, the ECMC acknowledges with gratitude the many expressions of sympathy and solidarity which have already started coming in from various communities and individuals as well as from our Federal and Provincial Governments.
At the same time, we acknowledge the prompt attention of our Edmonton Police Service in following up on any assessed risks here in Edmonton. Our Council will continue to maintain contact with these law enforcement agencies in highlighting any gaps that we observe or otherwise become aware of.
The ECMC is an umbrella organization representing twelve faith-based entities in Edmonton and surrounding areas, which speaks on behalf of Edmonton Muslims in matters of public policy, education, interfaith relations and peace and security.
ECMC STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH THE JEWISH COMMUNITIES AND DENOUNCES THIS MORNING’S ATTACK AT THE TREE OF LIFE SYNAGOGUE IN PITTSBURGH
The Edmonton Council of Muslim Communities (ECMC) stands in solidarity with the Jewish communities, friends and colleagues and expresses sincere condolences to the families of all those who have lost their loved ones in this senseless act of violence against a peaceful congregation of worshippers on their day of sabbath. Our prayers are also with those who have sustained injuries through this horrible act.
Over the past few years, Canada has also seen a rise in the number of hate crimes, targeted towards Jewish communities, Muslims and other minorities. This should be of concern to all and it is more important than ever that we come together in mutual understanding and respect for all citizens, and in particular in a spirit of solidarity with all faiths. To this end ECMC acknowledges and appreciates Government of Alberta’s initiative, under the leadership of Premier Rachel Notley, to combat racism, foster acceptance, and promote an inclusive society in Alberta.
The ECMC is an umbrella organization representing twelve faith-based entities in Edmonton and surrounding areas, which speaks on behalf of Edmonton Muslims in matters of public policy, education, interfaith relations and peace and security.
June 18, 2018
ECMC Condemns the recent burning of Mosque in Edson
Edmonton Council of Muslim Communities (ECMC) condemns the recent attack on Edson Mosque over the weekend. Based on preliminary reports, this was a deliberate act of arson and we understand that the RCMP is looking for the man who is suspected of starting the fire. Thankfully, there was no loss of life in this incident. However, such acts of violence against a place of worship undermine our shared values of freedom of worship and security for all and should be of grave concern to all Canadians.
The Edmonton Muslim community is very appreciative of the combined efforts of the RCMP and the Edson Fire Department in acting quickly to contain the damage to property.
Our Council also appreciates the statement of solidarity and support for the Muslim community issued by Premier Rachel Notley today. At this time, our Council stands in solidarity with both the law enforcement agencies as well as the Edson Muslim community.
Edmonton Council of Muslim Communities is an umbrella organization representing twelve different Muslim entities in the Edmonton and surrounding areas. Created in 2002, it speaks on behalf of Edmonton Muslims in public policy, media relations and related matters.