As a child welfare agency committed to the safety and well-being of children, youth and families in Halton Region, the Halton Children’s Aid Society utterly condemns the hateful act of violence, Islamophobia anti-Muslim racism that took place this past weekend in London, Ontario.

On Sunday, June 6, 2021, four members of a London, Ontario family were killed by a driver as they were waiting to cross a street. A fifth family member, a nine-year-old boy, suffered significant injuries. Police have stated they believe this was a planned, premeditated act motivated by hate and that the victims were targeted because of their Islamic faith.

Hatred and discrimination have no place in our world. This latest incident is a tragic reminder that Islamophobia anti-Muslim racism – and all forms of racism – are real and do exist in Ontario and in Canada.

We all play a part to keep our communities safe. We must speak out against issues of hate, violence and discrimination when they arise. No one should live in fear because of their faith or identity.

To the Muslim communities in London, Halton Region and across the country, the Halton Children’s Aid Society stands in solidarity with you.

The Halton Children’s Aid Society shares the shocked reactions prompted by the discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children in unmarked graves on the site of the Kamloops Residential School in British Columbia. We want to honour the lives and spirits of these children. Our hearts go out to their families and the community from whom they were taken. Their grief is unfathomable.