TORONTO, November 4, 2014 – The CRRF has issued a call to action following reports of two security-related incidents in the Ottawa area. It has been reported that a man was arrested by police for obstructing justice and assaulting an officer. He had come to the attention of police after he had caused disruptions in two South Ottawa mosques, yelling out extremist related slogans in support of violence following the terrorist attacks on Parliament Hill, in at least one location.
Then in the early morning hours this past Friday, rocks were thrown through windows and at the walls of one of the two mosques where this man had previously been asked to leave. The vandalism caused considerable damage and gave rise to concern among its members who came upon the destruction.
According to Anita Bromberg, Executive Director of the CRRF, "These two incidents are under investigation and the full details are yet to emerge. But even at this point, we must recognize that the destructive emotion of hatred is at the root of both. Both were inspired by hatred – hatred of Canada in one case and in the other, hatred directed at a community which forms part of the diverse make up of Canada. All Canadians need to find ways to come together to address these fundamental attacks on our common sense of good citizenship, based on our value for common freedoms and human rights, including the right to life, liberty and security of the person."
"These two incidents also demonstrate the dual threats that face the Muslim community, namely the threat posed by extremists who try to use the community as a cover and also that of bigots who act out in hatred. As reported, the mosque leaders took the responsible route by working with police. It is the CRRF's view that the only viable road ahead requires a united stance of solidarity focused on our common Canadian values," concluded Albert Lo, Chairperson of the Foundation.
CRRF Executive Director: Anita Bromberg, , 416-508-9033