Saskatchewan Islamic Association Speaks out Against Orlando Shooting

The Islamic community in Saskatchewan is speaking out in the aftermath of the massacre at a gay night club in Orlando, Florida. 

“When somebody is so filled with hate and animus, that they would carry out such a horrific and barbaric crime … it leaves you speechless for awhile,” said Daniel Kuhlen of the Islamic Association of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon.

Kuhlen said that the association felt compelled to speak up and condemn what happened.    

“The Islamic Association thought it was very important not only to put out a media release condemning unconditionally this atrocious act, but we also appeared in person at the candlelight vigil at City Hall and we spoke at that vigil that was organized by the gay community.”

Kuhlen said that the association wants Canadians to know that Muslims in Canada stand shoulder to shoulder with them in opposition to violence. 

“We strongly oppose and condemn the targeting of anyone on the basis of a characteristic that they may have, whether its sexual orientation or some other characteristic.”

Kuhlen said that the association will continue to be vigilant and to speak out in the future against acts of violence carried out in the name of religion or any other ideology.

“The simple fact is for anyone arrogating onto themselves the power to decide to be prosecutor, judge, jury and executioner, that simply doesn’t work in … any society.”