Quebec Mosques Increase Vigilance Amid Rise in Vandalism and Anti-Muslim Rhetoric

Mosques and Islamic cultural centres across Quebec are experiencing a notable increase in vandalism and anti-Muslim rhetoric. In response, some institutions, like the Islamic Cultural Centre in Quebec City, have begun issuing safety reminders to their members. This heightened vigilance comes after a series of incidents over the past year and a half.

Recent events include the smashing of windows at the Mauricie Islamic Cultural Centre in June, following a wave of online threats. In July, Montreal police investigated a suspected hate crime outside the Verdun Islamic Centre where a replica of a severed, bloody hand was left at the entrance. Also in July, two individuals were arrested for vandalism at the Centre Culturel Al-Rahma Portneuf in Donnacona, where a portion of the centre's signage was damaged.

Community leaders express concern over the rise in hostile incidents and online harassment. Boufeldja Benabdallah, spokesperson for the Quebec City Islamic Cultural Centre, notes a sense of nervousness within the community and emphasizes the need for preparedness. He also highlighted the enduring impact of past violence, referencing the 2017 attack on his mosque that claimed six lives.

Experts indicate that hate directed towards religious communities has been escalating. Evan Balgord of the Canadian Anti-Hate Network suggests that official statistics may underrepresent the true extent of anti-Muslim incidents, as many go unreported or undetected by police. The rise in online hate speech is also a significant concern, with community members reporting disgust and threats.

In response to these incidents, some centres have enhanced their security by installing cameras. Despite the challenges, community members are determined to maintain their places of worship and cultural centres as safe spaces for prayer and community gathering, underscoring their commitment to living peacefully in Quebec.