Sheridan to recognize National Day of Remembrance of the Québec City Mosque Attack and Action against Islamophobia in virtual ceremony

Sheridan will hold a virtual observance today at 11:30 am EST to recognize the fifth anniversary of the mosque attack in Québec City which took place on January 29, 2017. The Government of Canada proclaimed January 29, 2022 as the first National Day of Remembrance of the attack and Action against Islamophobia. 

“We condemn acts of hate and reaffirm Sheridan’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Our learning community remains steadfast in our belief that diversity is our strength. Respect for others -- regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and identities -- is a value we uphold above all else,” said Dr. Janet Morrison, President and Vice Chancellor of Sheridan. “Our different cultures, perspectives and lived experiences add to the rich fabric of our  community. We are committed to social justice and empowering those who have historically been marginalized, locally and worldwide.” 

Sheridan’s observance will include remarks from President and Vice Chancellor, Dr. Janet Morrison; Vice President of Inclusive Communities, Dr. Jane Ngobia; and Dr. Sabreena Ghaffar-Siddiqui, diversity, equity and inclusion policy specialist and professor of sociology and criminology at Sheridan’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Science. Dr. Ghaffar-Siddiqui is also an award-winning public speaker, media commentator and human rights advocate. Imam Zahir Bacchus, the secretary of the Canadian Council of Imams, will close the observance with a prayer. 

The observance is part of Islam Awareness Week at Sheridan. Sheridan community members of all backgrounds and beliefs came together to raise awareness of the issues facing members of the Muslim community during this week of solidarity and exchange. 

Flags will be lowered at Sheridan campuses on January 29. 

Sheridan commits to taking meaningful action against Islamophobia, both individually and collectively. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to continue to educate themselves about Islamophobia and how it intersects with other forms of discrimination. Sheridan plans to bring forward a Policy on the Accommodation of Religious Observances for students and employees this spring.