More Than a Moment: Why January 29 Matters to All Canadians

Every January 29, you might notice people wearing small green squares on their lapels or see buildings lit up in emerald light.

This past week marked the ninth year since the shooting at the Quebec City Mosque—a night that changed the lives of six families forever and left a permanent mark on the heart of our country.

As we look at the headlines from this past week, it’s clear that this isn't just a "Muslim issue."

It’s a Canadian story about who we are and the kind of country we want to build.

The Human Cost

The vigils held in Montreal, London, and Ottawa this week weren't just about politics; they were about people.

We often hear the names of the six men lost in 2017—fathers, engineers, and community staples.

But as we saw at the Montreal vigil this year, the grief is still fresh.

In London, Ontario, the relatives of the Afzaal family (who were killed in a separate hate-motivated attack in 2021) spoke about the exhaustion of having to prove, year after year, that hate is still a real and present danger.

Their message was simple: while "open channels" with the government are nice, they don't replace the feeling of safety when walking down the street.

The Reality in 2026

It can be easy to think of 2017 as a one-off tragedy, but recent data suggests otherwise.

According to the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) and Statistics Canada:

• Hate on the Rise: Police-reported hate crimes targeting Muslims have increased by 173% over the last few years.
• Daily Impacts: This isn't just about extreme violence. It’s about the Muslim woman who feels a sudden chill in the grocery store or the student who is told they "don't look Canadian."
• The "System" Burden: Many families are now seeking legal help more than ever before, not for crimes they committed, but to protect themselves from discrimination in workplaces and schools.

A Faith of Resilience

For the Muslim community, faith isn't just a private practice; it’s a source of strength that benefits everyone.

This week, during Muslim Awareness Week, many turned their remembrance into action through blood drives and community workshops.

When our neighbours work to save lives or build inclusive spaces, they are acting on a principle that protects us all.

What We Can Do Together

Solidarity is a verb. Moving forward, "allyship" looks like more than just a social media post. It means:

• Asking Questions: Instead of relying on stereotypes, talk to your neighbours.
• Supporting Policy: Backing initiatives that fund security for community centres and anti-hate education in schools.
• Speaking Up: If you see someone being treated unfairly, your voice can be the one that can be the difference.

The green square is a symbol of hope—like the green grass that grows after a long winter.

Nine years later, the goal isn't just to remember the tragedy, but to ensure that the "winter" of hate never has the final word in Canada.