Ontario marked the ninth anniversary of the Quebec City mosque attack on Thursday, with the provincial government reaffirming its commitment to fight Islamophobia and protect the right of all residents to practise their faith freely and safely.
In a statement issued on the National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia, Graham McGregor, Ontario’s Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, reflected on the lasting impact of the January 29, 2017, shooting at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City, one of the deadliest acts of violence motivated by anti-Muslim hatred in Canadian history.
“Today on the ninth anniversary of the heinous attack at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City, we remember the six people who were murdered and the 19 others seriously injured in a targeted act of hate,” McGregor said.
The attack, which took place during evening prayers, sent shockwaves across the country and prompted renewed national conversations about Islamophobia, racism and violent extremism. Six worshippers were killed and dozens of families and community members were left grappling with profound trauma that continues to resonate nearly a decade later.
McGregor said Ontario continues to honour the victims while standing with those most directly affected by the violence. “Ontario remembers the lives lost and we stand with the survivors, their families, loved ones and community members,” he said. “We also recognize the bravery and selflessness of first responders and others whose heroic actions that day saved lives.”
The minister’s statement emphasized that remembrance must be accompanied by concrete action, particularly as Muslim communities across Canada report ongoing concerns about discrimination, harassment and hate crimes. According to national data, incidents targeting religious and racialized groups have remained elevated in recent years, underscoring the need for sustained government and community responses.
McGregor said the province is committed to working collaboratively to confront those challenges. “Ontario stands in solidarity with Muslim friends and neighbours and our government remains steadfast in working with partners and all levels of government to reject Islamophobia and all forms of hate, and to protect the right of every person in Ontario to practice their faith peacefully, with dignity and respect,” he said.
The Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism has been involved in a range of initiatives aimed at promoting inclusion and countering hate, including community grants, education programs and partnerships with faith and cultural organizations. Provincial officials say these efforts are intended to strengthen social cohesion while ensuring that marginalized communities feel supported and heard.
The National Day of Remembrance, observed annually on January 29, was established by the federal government to honour the victims of the Quebec City attack and to encourage Canadians to reflect on the consequences of hatred and intolerance. Provinces and municipalities across the country typically mark the day with statements, memorials and community events.
McGregor concluded his remarks by stressing the importance of collective responsibility in building a safer and more inclusive province. “By standing together, we are building a stronger Ontario where people from all walks of life feel safe, respected and welcomed,” he said.
As Ontario observes the anniversary, community leaders and advocates continue to call for vigilance against hate-motivated violence and discrimination, emphasizing that remembrance is not only about looking back, but also about shaping policies and attitudes that prevent similar tragedies in the future.
