There was a solid showing of solidarity at the Chatham-Kent Civic Centre Wednesday night.
Approximately 200 people showed up to honour the victims of the Quebec City shooting.
Chatham-Kent Muslim Association President Hassan Elhkodr started off by saying the attack has affected more than just those in the Muslim community.
Vigil outside of the Civic Centre in Chatham. #ck #QuebecCityMosqueShooting pic.twitter.com/gtRONibKl3
— Natalia Vega (@NataliaV_News) February 2, 2017
Mayor Randy Hope followed by saying he was pleased with the turnout, which shows unity within Chatham-Kent.
"In Chatham-Kent we stand for each other, no matter the colour of our skin, or religious beliefs," says Hope. "No one should be going through any kind of massacre."
Several people spoke at the podium about the attack. As the comments progressed, speakers started relaying messages in regards to acceptance and becoming educated on other cultures, as well as religious beliefs.
Ibrahim Memon speaking outside of the Civic Centre. February 1, 2017. (Photo by Natalia Vega)
One of the speakers, Ibrahim Memon of the CK Muslim Association took the opportunity to remind people how good it is to live in Canada.
"Thank God who blessed us with one of the most beautiful countries in the world," says Memon. "I'm saying this not just because I'm standing here, I'm saying this by travelling around the world and seeing what people are going through -- especially in this day and age."
Memon says leaving one's house everyday and getting to return home at the end of the day safely is not something people in other countries are able to do.
"[In] other parts of the world people are not able to enjoy this feature that we have, this blessing that we have," he says. "It goes back of course to all of our citizens and especially to our government."
Before people retreated to their scheduled events of the evening, the vigil wrapped up with the singing of Canada's national anthem.
Another vigil will be held Friday night at the Community of Christ Church on Faubert Dr. in Chatham from 6pm-9pm.
