January 28th, 2022

On January 29, 2017, a lone gunman entered a mosque in Quebec City and opened fire on dozens of Muslim Canadians during a prayer service. By the time the shooting had ended, six worshippers had been killed, and 19 more injured. It was one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history that prompted widespread grief, outrage and dialogue about the realities of Islamophobia and racism in Canada.

Last year’s horrific attack in London, Ontario underscored the fact that Islamophobia is not a thing of the past, but very much alive and present in our communities today.

It is important for us to be mindful that this time can be increasingly difficult for Muslim staff, students, and families. Our educators and staff are supported in this with resources and information provided by the Indigenous, Equity, and Human Rights Department to ensure approaches to this material are trauma-informed.

Supporting Students and Staff

At the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB), we know that staff and students from diverse faith communities need a safe and respectful environment to succeed academically.

The Religious and Creed Accommodation Policy supports academic achievement by eliminating discrimination and harassment related to creed. The WRDSB’s Human Rights Policy is committed to providing working and learning environments that are free of discrimination and harassment, where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and can thrive and fully contribute.

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