"We stand with you and will always stand with you. Our freedom is tied," read one of the many messages that filled the entrance of the Muslim Society of Guelph on Thursday.
“Thank you for being an amazing part of our community.” “We are so thankful for all you do.” “Racism sucks.” “Muslim Lives Matter.” All among the messages posted at the entrance of the Water Street mosque.
The entrance was filled with bright balloons, colourful messages of support and vibrant flowers.
“It's really a nice feeling to know that we have the support and that people do care for what's happening to one another in the community,” said Sara Sayyed, representative of the Muslim Society of Guelph.
Sayyed said the Imam of the mosque noticed the display of support Thursday evening after the sunset prayer.
“I have no idea who did it,” said Sayyed.
“It was fantastic. I was smiling, I was like this is amazing. It’s so sweet.”
The gesture took place a week after a 45-year-old man allegedly verbally and physically attacked two Muslim men on the front porch of a residence and accosted them for being Muslim, according to Guelph Police. The man was later charged with two counts of assault.
When you live in such an amazing community. This evening few random people showed up at our Mosque at Water Street and shower their love for the community. Proud to be a Guelphite. Thank you 😍@CamGuthrie @leanne_ward5 @CathyDowner @LloydLongfield @PhilAllt @MikeSchreiner pic.twitter.com/qzee4LpUpI
— Muslim Guelph (@MSOFG_SM) October 2, 2020
After the incident took place, Sayyed told GuelphToday that the incident was particularly disheartening because the MSOG thought they were doing great in terms of connecting with the community and teaching them what they’re all about.
She said the support from the community assures them that their work in their community is valued.
“It's a typical Guelph thing I think to come out and support and show the love when something happens,” said Sayyed also mentioning that the MSOG received many emails of support from the community.
“It says that we have done a lot of work bridge-building and that we have a lot of good friends in the city."
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Downtown Guelph also put a message on their board that read “We stand with our Muslim Community. Love Wins.” A message from the Guelph Jewish community was is also posted on the MSOG entrance that reads "Sending our support from your friends at Beth Isaiah."
“I would just like to say thank you to everyone who has been supportive,” said Sayyed.
She said the MSOG did speak to the victims of the recent attack and they are doing well.
