Ottawa, January 6, 2012 – The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement condemning the acts of vandalism against a Gatineau mosque this week:
Any act of vandalism is deplorable. But vandalism against houses of worship of any faith is particularly cowardly and hateful. Our government strongly condemns these heinous attacks that have been terrorizing the whole community.
Vandals spray painted the Outaouais Islamic Centre earlier yesterday with hate messages. The mosque was also targeted Monday night, when vandals smashed the building’s windows and those of two cars parked at the mosque.
Our Government is deeply disturbed by the acts of individuals who promote this type of hatred. Canada is recognized as a peaceful and tolerant country, where people from around the world aspire to live.
The peacefully pluralist and harmonious society we have built is a source of pride for all Canadians. When individuals commit such cowardly acts of vandalism, they betray our national pride and undermine our social cohesion.
As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I hope that all Canadians will reject such senseless intolerance. Religious bigotry and vandalism are unacceptable and completely contrary to Canada’s fundamental values of freedom of religion.
For further information (media only), please contact:
Candice Malcolm
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.
