By: Simon Busse, FSWC Educator

January 29 marks the National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia. In 2017, just after evening prayers ended at the Great Mosque of Quebec City, a 27-year-old university student entered the mosque and started shooting. He ended up killing six people and wounding five more. It was Canada’s worst attack at a religious place of worship.  Ibrahima Barry, 39, Mamadou Tanou Barry, 42, Khaled Belkacemi, 60, Aboubaker Thabti, 44, Abdelkrim Hassane, 41, and Azzedine Soufiane, 57 all lost their lives senselessly.

In December 2020, a memorial was unveiled near the mosque to honour the victims. Named “Vivre Ensemble” or “Live Together,” the tribute was created by artist Luce Pelletier and consists of three stone plinths, linked by silver leaves at the top. It was funded by the federal, provincial and municipal levels of government. The names of the six men murdered that night are engraved on the stones.

To aid in recognizing the importance of this day, the impact of Islamophobia and the importance of inclusivity, you could have your class get involved in the following ways:

1. Hold discussion and reflection circles where students reflect on the significance of the day. Discuss the impact of commemorative dates on communities.

2. Create a mural or pieces of artwork that express themes of peace, inclusion and community solidarity. Students can research and incorporate quotes from influential figures or survivors of hate crimes.

3. Organize a school-wide memorial service where students can read poetry, share stories, or light candles in honour of the victims. This can be a powerful way to foster a sense of community and remembrance.

4. Create a class guide on how to combat Islamophobia. This could include educational resources, ways to support affected communities and information on local organizations that promote inclusivity.