Over 1000 in Attendance at Edmonton Vigil

On January 30th, I was lucky enough to experience what it looks like when people from different faiths and backgrounds come out to support their fellow citizens. 

At the vigil for the victims of the Quebec mosque attack, I was amazed to see that more than a thousand people came out to brave the cold weather to stand in solidarity with the Muslim community.

Prayers were said in English, Arabic, and Hebrew, and expressions of inclusion and unity were shared sending a strong message to those who try to divide our country. Shaykh Zahid Ally, Rabbi Rose, Elder Taz, and representation from the United Church of Canada showed that we are all together in the common fight against injustice, violence, and hate.

Premier Rachel Notley and Mayor Don Iveson ensured the Muslim community that the government stood behind them, and that just like anyone else in this nation, that they are an integral part of our country as a whole. The cheers and clapping that erupted after their messages of inclusion were an overwhelming way of showing the Muslim community that we all believe that they belong here.

I often feel proud to be Canadian, but last night on the grounds of the Alberta legislature I felt extremely proud to be an Edmontonian.

Blog contributed by Tali Millo through a Conversation Participant