In response to the heinous and cowardly murder of four members of a Muslim family yesterday in London, Ontario, the University of Ottawa extends its profound sympathies and condolences to the extended family of the victims and denounces in the strongest terms the racist ideology that fuelled this incident – and others like it – in which Canadians of the Muslim faith have been targeted.
We must take the time necessary to learn from the evils of the past and put an end to white supremacist thinking in all its forms. Canada’s diverse character, which warmly welcomes a multiplicity of faiths and ethnicities, must continue to be nurtured, until from coast to coast to coast we honour equally the descendants of the original inhabitants of this land, the children of settlers and new immigrants seeking a better life.
The voices that would divide us are only ever self-serving and fearful. We can and will defeat them with courage, love and wisdom.
At the University of Ottawa we are proud of our Muslim students, faculty and staff, who are a vital part of our community. Our hearts go out to all of you at this time of deep sorrow for this tragic loss. We stand with you, and with all who denounce racism. Together we will continue to work toward a future free from ignorance and hate.
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