Proclamation Reading of Attorney General Niki Sharma at Masjid Ul Haqq

Amidst the quiet reflection that follows Jummah prayer, Attorney General Niki Sharma stood before the congregation at Masjid Ul Haqq to mark a significant moment in the history of British Columbia. She read aloud the Proclamation officially designating January 29, 2024, as the "Day of Remembrance and Action on Islamophobia."

With the Foundation for a Path Forward among the audience in this powerful event, this proclamation is not just a declaration but a commitment. It signifies British Columbia's recognition of its culturally diverse heritage as a fundamental aspect of society—contributing significantly to the cultural, social, economic, and political life of the province. With a growing Muslim community, the government is taking a firm stand against race-based and faith-based hatred, including Islamophobia.

The date January 29 holds deep significance. It commemorates the tragic day in 2017 when an act of terror at the Grand Mosque of the Islamic Cultural Centre in Québec City claimed the lives of six people and seriously injured 19 others. This proclamation affirms the province's dedication to remembering the victims and confronting the hatred that led to such a devastating loss.

By supporting grassroots anti-racism projects and fostering tools to tackle anti-Muslim sentiments, British Columbia aims to build a more inclusive community for all its residents. The reading of this proclamation by Attorney General Sharma, especially in the serene aftermath of a religious service, serves as a poignant reminder of the solidarity needed to combat hate and discrimination in all its forms.

This day, January 29, will now officially serve as a call to action in British Columbia—a day to not only remember the lives lost but also to actively engage in fighting against Islamophobia and upholding the values of diversity and inclusiveness that define the province.