NCCM denounces anti-Muslim hate targeting Calgary restaurant

-For Immediate Release-

(Ottawa – June 2, 2015) The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), a prominent human rights and advocacy organization, is denouncing the vandalism of a restaurant in Calgary, Alberta.

According to media reports, the wall of KOOB: The Kabob Factory on 72nd Avenue southeast was spray painted with the words “F*** Islam”. Calgary Police are investigating the incident as a hate crime.

See: 660 News; Calgary Herald

Hate-graffiti

“The vast majority of Canadians of all backgrounds would agree that such acts represent ignorant and hateful views that have no place in our peaceful and diverse communities. We call on all Canadians to stand united against such cowardly acts of hatred and intimidation,” says Ihsaan Gardee, NCCM’s Executive Director.

“We further call on our federal, provincial, and municipal leaders to fulfill their civic responsibility of speaking out forcefully against anti-Muslim sentiments and acts, and all forms of hatred.

“We urge community members in Calgary and elsewhere to review NCCM’s Community Safety Kit to secure their places of worship, to remain vigilant, and to immediately report any suspicious activities to local authorities and to the NCCM,” says Gardee.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Calgary Police Force Hate/Bias Crimes Unit at 403-266-1234.

According to research published by Statistics Canada, hate crimes too often go unreported.

CONTACT: Ihsaan Gardee, Executive Director, 613.254.9704 or 613.853.4111

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