The following letter was published by The Toronto Star, on April 11th, 2023.
As someone who leads prayers in a mosque daily, I am Imam with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at at the Baitun Naseer Mosque in Ottawa, such hateful incidents are always concerning.
The authorities should ensure the safety of all citizens. Personally, we have always found the local police to be very co-operative whenever we have asked for help.
We live in a wonderful, free country where the basic needs of all people are ensured, and we all have religious freedom to practice our faith.
To such individuals who hold any malice or hate towards Muslims, my message would be that violence is never the answer.
Instead, try to meet with people, hold a dialogue and understand different cultures and practices. Even if one does not agree with others, we should uphold everyone’s rights and freedoms.
Resorting to violence only shows one’s own insecurities and weaknesses
Luqman Ahmed – Ottawa
