Canada’s National Muslim Group Concerned about Hateful Gathering Outside Toronto Mosque
The National Council of Canadian Muslims said the demonstration, reportedly consisting of about a dozen participants, was a clear attempt to intimidate the Muslim community.
Images on social media showed the protesters carrying signs with anti-Muslim slogans as worshippers were entering the mosque.
The executive director of the National Council said it is "deeply" disturbing that such a protest would happen, let alone after last month's slaying of six men at a Quebec City mosque.
Ihsaan Gardee said it is critical that Canadians confront hatred in their communities.
The group said it is unclear if any threats were made against mosque congregants, but anyone with such information should contact police.
Toronto police said they've been called by outraged people who read media reports about the demonstration but as of Saturday afternoon, they hadn't received a formal complaint.
The protest came as Parliament debated a motion condemning Islamophobia and racism.
The debate has sparked many racist and sexually derogatory messages against both the Ontario MP who made the motion and Heritage Minister Melanie Joly who took an active role in the parliamentary debate.
The issue also attracted the attention of Premier Kathleen Wynne on Saturday.
"There is no place for Islamophobia in Ontario. Thankful for those who stand with the Islamic community against hate," Wynne tweeted.
It was not immediately clear if she was referring to Friday's protest or the issue of Islamophobia in general.
Source: CBC News
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