Dear fellow Canadians:
Thank you to each and every one of you who called, emailed and reached out to us. It meant a lot to the Muslim community here and around the country. We are very humbled with the overwhelming support and above all very proud to be Canadians.
At the vigil for the Quebec Mosque shooting Tuesday night in Kelowna, the Islamic Center was packed inside and outside, fence to fence to the street, to the sidewalk. It was a testimonial presentation of solidarity and I say out of this sad incident the best of us (Canadians) came out. We together (stopped) the hatred and division again.
We pray for the departing souls and pray to God almighty to grant strength and courage to the family members to bear their unrecoverable loss. Their lives have been shattered. Tuesday we stood together in solidarity with one loud voice that this is not acceptable. This is Canada, we as Canadians are compassionate, considerate and respectful to each other; recognizing our differences, just like a bouquet of flowers. We are diverse communities yet united as one Canadian nation. That’s who we are and we are very proud of our values.
This horrible incident has opened our hearts to each other and your presence was a testimony to our belief that we are all one. I want to thank all of you on behalf of our congregation and the Muslim community around the country for showing your support and extended your kindness.
Hamid Butt, Kelowna Islamic Center
