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Attempted Arson at Vancouver Mosque threatens lives of children
5-02-2016
An arson attempt was recently made on Al-Jamia Mosque in Vancouver, leaving many questions. With no motive determined, the issue of religiously motivated violence cannot be denied as a potential factor. And while no one was hurt in the incident, one fact that often overlooked is the presence of children in a place of worship.
As a foundation advocating for children everywhere, The Amazing Tutors Children’s Foundation condemns violence against children regardless of the form it takes. The children at the Mosque attended with their families to pray and worship. A threat to their lives should raise concerns for everyone about religiously motivated violence. These innocent lives must be protected, for within them are the seeds of the world we want to build. If we hope to create a society of tolerance, freedom and compassion, then we must secure the safety of all children regardless of race, religion, or gender.
Children represent the future of our society and community. Violence against them will only continue the cycle of intolerance and hate that divides us as a people. By standing together in condemnation against violence, we can help break the cycle, and create communities of understanding, caring and compassion. The children attended prayers with their families, making the mosque populated while the attack ensued.
The timing of the attack only raises concerns about intolerance and violence within our communities. At a time when communication and diplomacy are needed more than ever, acts such as this only exacerbate and inflate tensions between religious communities here in Canada. If we hope to create greater understanding between people, we must take steps to end the cycle of violence that fosters intolerance and hatred.
“We call out to everyone to help end violence, especially when it threatens the lives of children. As a community, we should strive to create a space for children to live that is safe, tolerant, and compassionate. Acts of violence threaten us all, even when directed at specific groups,” advocate Sikandar and Suzanne Hayat, directors of the Amazing Tutors Children’s Foundation.
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