Madam Speaker, I rise today, on a Friday, during a time when the Muslim community in Edmonton and across the country, begins its Friday prayers. I rise today to recognize the impact the Muslim community plays in our region of the country. The members of the Muslim faith, and quite frankly all Canadians, had their safe space, their place of prayer, fiercely attacked in Quebec City. When a gunman opened fire in a mosque, not only did it have a profound impact on the Quebec Muslim community, it gave possibility to what could happen across our country. Canada is a welcoming place, a place that does not and should not live in fear. Our values alone are a barrier to protecting the impossible from happening.
I do know, trust, and love many friends in my Muslim community of Edmonton. They should and need to feel safe today, on a Friday, and every day in Edmonton. I want all members of the Muslim community in Edmonton, and across the world, to know that I stand in unity with them and condemn the horrendous attacks on Quebec City.