The London Police Services Board (LPSB) does not believe the attack Sunday night that killed four members of a Muslim family was unthinkable or isolated and wants to see real action from all levels of government to prevent future violence.
In a statement issued Wednesday on behalf of Chair Dr. Javeed Sukhera, the board condemned the act of anti-Muslim hate and violence.
"We mourn the loss of the four members of our community, and our thoughts are with the 9-year-old boy who lost his family, solely because of his, and their, faith," said Sukhera. "However, the LPSB cannot pretend that what occurred was unthinkable or isolated."
He went on to state that the board has had two Muslim chairs over the past several years, both of whom were subjected to hate, vitriol, and slurs because of their beliefs.
"These despicable attacks increase anytime the LPSB works to address racism. The vitriol increases anytime we, as a board, acknowledge systemic discrimination," said Sukhera. "It is unacceptable. We cannot deny nor turn away from this truth."
It was Sunday when five members of a Muslim family were out for an evening stroll and a pickup truck mounted the curb at Hyde Park and South Carriage roads, striking them. Salman Afzaal, 46, his wife Madiha Salman, 44, their 15-year-old daughter Yumna Afzaal, and Salman Afzaal’s 74-year-old mother, Talat Afzaal were killed. Nine-year-old Fayez Salman survived the collision, but remains in hospital. The following day, London police said there was evidence the attack was premeditated and motivated by hate. Nathaniel Veltman, 20, of London is charged with four counts of first degree murder and one count of attempted murder.
Just like members of the Muslim community, there are current and past members of the board who do not feel safe in the city because of the colour of their skin and religion, Sukhera admitted.
"We will continue to work together to dismantle white supremacy for the safety of all racialized, Black, Indigenous, and equity seeking communities. The LPSB cannot and will not pretend that this is an isolated incident," said Sukhera.
The board is now joining the London Muslim Mosque in calling on the municipal, provincial, and federal levels of government to hold a National Action Summit on Islamophobia.
"Together, we can, must, and will bring justice by committing to listen, act, and do better, until all of us, regardless of our religion or ethnicity, feel safe again," said Sukhera.