Fear in Ottawa’s Muslim community after London attack unfortunately not a new feeling

Fear within the Muslim community in Ottawa is growing with the idea that what happened in London this week could easily happen here. 

Kanata Muslim Association (KMA) Imam Sikander Hashmi says what is most frightening about the attack is that the London, Ontario family was killed while out walking and waiting to cross the street.

“What makes this terrible act that much more difficult is the fact that it's so relatable,” he says. “Everyone's been going out for walks. I've been encouraging my community to go out for walks with their families, to spend time together, so its so relatable because everyone has crossed the street with their family in the past few months.”

Hashmi says the fear created by this most recent attack within the Muslim community is unfortunately nothing new. Since the massacre at a Quebec City mosque in 2017, the Ottawa Police Service has increased its presence around the KMA Mosalla and other mosques across the city for Friday prayer, to allow them to practice their faith safely.

“Definitely there's increased fear, but that fear is not irrational, it's based-on statistics and what's been happening, like in London,” Hashmi says. “The Ottawa Police has been very helpful and cooperative with local Muslim community.”

The Muslim community in Kanata is mourning the loss of the London family, as some members of the community even had ties directly to them. The KMA Imam says after something like this happens its important to be cautious about another attack but its as equally important not to be afraid. 

“Continue being who you are and [do] what you do, just be a little more cautious.”

He's encouraging his community to stay strong, to remember that an attack like this does not reflect Canada entirely, and to not let acts of terror and fear totally disrupt their lives.

-30-