At least 49 people were killed and 20 seriously injured in a mass shooting that occurred in New Zealand, in the City of Christchurch today. The attack took place at two local mosques. SABA Toronto condemns this heinous act of terrorism. We pray for those who have been killed in this attack and for those who are undergoing treatment for their injuries. We stand with Muslim communities across the world at this difficult time and with all of those who face violence for their religion, race and diversity.

While this attack occurred far from Canada, it is a reminder that hate and violence continue to be propagated on minority communities. Hate crimes against minorities and especially Muslim communities continue to occur across the world and have increased in Canada over the last four years. Only two years ago we were faced with similar violence in Canada when a gunman attacked worshippers at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City, a mosque in the Sainte-Foy neighbourhood of Quebec City.

At SABA Toronto we stand to defend religious freedom and diversity in our communities. We work to protect all who are affected by acts of hatred, violence and discrimination.

Aaron Bains
President SABA Toronto