On January 29, 2017, the evening prayer had just ended at a Quebec City Mosque when an Islamophobic white supremacist stormed in and shot six Muslim men dead and seriously injured another 19. This terrorist attack was a brutal reminder of the disastrous consequences of racism and the urgency for action to counter hate.
To commemorate the victims, support the relatives and the communities shaken by this horrible crime and bolster the fight against Islamophobia, the federal government has proclaimed January 29 as the National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action against Islamophobia. This day also provides an opportunity to promote an inclusive and equitable country where everyone can contribute to our communities and achieve their full potential in a safer environment.
CUPE invites all of its members to take time out to reflect on Islamophobia and all forms of racism, hate and discrimination, as understanding and education are the best ways of building an inclusive and safe country for everyone. Let us continue denouncing Islamophobia and all forms of racism and discrimination.
The Green Square Campaign
In January 2020, Muslim communities launched the Green Square Campaign. CUPE is inviting its members to participate in the campaign and wear a square of green cloth the week preceding January 29. The green square represents the green carpets in the Quebec City Mosque: wear it in memory of the victims and in solidarity with their relatives and everyone who is suffering the consequences of hate-related violence.
Take action:
- This year we must also recognize the rise in Islamophobia as a result of heightened anti-Palestinian racism. Take action by calling on the Canadian government to impose an arms embargo on Israel
- Discover what the National Council of Canadian Muslims and the International Civil Liberties Monitoring Group are doing to fight Islamophobia.
- Read the Canadian Labour Congress report entitled Islamophobia at Work: Challenges and Opportunities.
- Sign up for a CUPE workshop on racial justice and take action in your local to help meet the goals of the CUPE Anti-Racism Strategy