Today marks the fourth anniversary of the terrorist attack at the Centre culturel islamique de Québec in Ste-Foy, a hateful attack which claimed the lives of 6 people and seriously injured 19 others. On this tragic anniversary we honour the memory of the victims, their families and loved ones, we thank the first responders who did everything possible to save lives and protect members of the congregation, and condemn this heinous act of Islamophobia and racism in the strongest manner possible.

Today, Canadians are united and in solidarity with everyone in Quebec City, the Muslim community in Quebec City and our Muslim brothers and sisters across Canada.

To honour the victims of this tragedy, our government announced yesterday our intention to declare January 29 the National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action against Islamophobia. Eliminating Islamophobia is a key pillar of Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy. We will continue to fight hatred and discrimination, which has no place anywhere in Canada.

We must stand strong and united in the face of division and hatred, and defend our values of diversity, inclusion and respect to make our country a better and stronger place for one and all.