Eight years after the tragic mosque shooting, the Quebec City Muslim community stands strong against hate and remembers the victims.
Quebec City: The memories of that fateful night on January 29, 2017, still haunt Boufeldja Benabdallah. He recalls the panic as he arrived at the mosque he helped establish, only to find it surrounded by police.
Six men lost their lives that night when a gunman opened fire at the Islamic Cultural Centre. Nineteen others were injured, leaving many families shattered.
Years later, Benabdallah emphasizes the importance of remembering those who were lost. He fondly recalls Azzeddine Soufiane, a gentle soul who would quietly pray at the mosque, and Mamadou Tanou Barry, who was always full of joy.
Then there was Ibrahima Barry, a serious yet friendly figure who supported newcomers, and Abdelkrim Hassane, the football enthusiast who loved discussing championships. Khaled Belkacemi, a professor, was also a close friend of Benabdallah.
“I have good memories of them,” he says, reflecting on the past. He believes that after hardship, something good can emerge, and he’s holding onto that hope.
On the eighth anniversary of the attack, Nesrine Adda and Sakina Ouchane wore dark green felt squares, symbolizing peace and reminiscent of the mosque’s carpet from that tragic night.
Adda shared how her father was at the mosque during the attack, describing it as a deeply shocking experience for him.
Mohamed Labidi, the mosque’s president, expressed his grief over losing friends who always greeted him with smiles. “I lost their smiles,” he said, his voice filled with emotion.
Labidi also highlighted the importance of fighting against hate on this National Day of Remembrance. He remains optimistic, believing there’s a bright future ahead despite the challenges.
While he acknowledges some progress in combating Islamophobia, he also points out that negative stereotypes and political rhetoric can set them back.
He mentioned a recent controversial statement from Quebec Premier François Legault about banning public prayer, which has raised concerns in the community.
This year, the mosque organized public information sessions, but sadly, very few locals attended. Labidi questioned why the turnout was so low.
Arif Virani, the federal justice minister, expressed disappointment over the lack of interest but remains hopeful about fostering curiosity and understanding across Canada.
He noted that since 2017, 11 people have died due to Islamophobia in Canada, a statistic that is troubling for a G7 nation.
Benabdallah believes in the power of connection and unity. “Most people are good,” he says, but acknowledges that a loud minority often drowns out the voices of understanding.
