Dear Editor,
The massacre in a Quebec mosque last weekend is a horrific tragedy, which has shaken Canadians from coast to coast to coast. This act of terrorism has caused pain to every peace-loving Canadian, and has put fear and anxiety in the minds and hearts of our Muslim brothers and sisters throughout Canada.
Since this tragedy occurred, there have been vigils and expressions of sympathy and support for the Muslim community all across the land. Locally, more than 200 people gathered at the mosque at Blundell Road and No. 5 Road on Monday (Jan. 30) evening.
The vigil attracted people representing the diversity of this community. The attendees included Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie, Coun. Chak Au and a number of other community leaders. I also had the privilege of being invited to address the gathering and offer support to the Muslim community.
Every speaker offered his/her condolences to the Muslim community and assured it of their unconditional support in this hour of need. Each one of them emphasized that Richmond is a culturally diverse and harmonious community. Our Highway to Heaven, a stretch of No. 5 Road with more than 20 different places of worship, reflects the uniqueness not only of Richmond but all of Canada.
We shouldn’t be disheartened by this tragedy, but move on. Each one of us must continue to fight against the forces of prejudice, racism, hatred and violence. As our Prime Minister has put it so well, we should continue to meet fear and hatred with love and compassion.
Balwant Sanghera
Richmond Multicultural Community Services
