Boufeldja Benabdallah has observed an increase in vandalism and anti-Muslim sentiments aimed at mosques and cultural centers in Quebec over the past 18 months, a trend that puzzles him. Despite this, as the spokesperson and co-founder of Quebec City’s Islamic Cultural Centre, he emphasizes that their community is responding with vigilance.
Recently, the Mauricie Islamic Cultural Centre had its windows smashed in an act of vandalism after facing a wave of online threats and harassment in Trois-Rivières, Quebec. In Montreal, an investigation was launched into a hate crime outside the Verdun Islamic Centre, where an imitation of a severed, blood-covered human hand was left at the entrance.
In a separate incident, two young adults, a man and a woman, were apprehended for vandalizing the Centre Culturel Al-Rahma Portneuf, located in Donnacona, Quebec. This event, occurring less than 50 kilometers southwest of Quebec City, led to heightened apprehension among Muslims in the region.
Benabdallah expresses a sense of unease within the Muslim community in Quebec City, emphasizing the importance of reassurance and vigilance. The mosque has issued a public warning, outlining security measures to enhance safety and prevent potential threats.
Reflecting on the tragic events of nearly a decade ago when six individuals were killed in an attack at the same mosque, Benabdallah stresses the need for preparedness without inciting unnecessary alarm.
Evan Balgord, the executive director of the Canadian Anti-Hate Network, highlights the worsening trend of hate targeting religious communities, particularly the Muslim population. Online harassment and hate speech have become significant concerns, prompting some, like Benabdallah, to disengage from social media platforms due to the level of vitriol.
Abdelouaheb ben Abdallah, a treasurer and member of the Donnacona Islamic Cultural Centre, echoes these sentiments, noting the rise of anti-Islam rhetoric online. Despite efforts to maintain positive relationships with neighbors, incidents of vandalism and hate crimes persist, necessitating increased security measures, such as the installation of cameras.
Both Benabdallah and ben Abdallah emphasize the importance of preserving these communal spaces as places of worship, serenity, and unity. They remain committed to fostering a harmonious coexistence with those who may hold anti-Islam sentiments, underscoring their love for Quebec and the desire to uphold a peaceful and vibrant community life.
