Supporting victim services for Muslim communities in London, Ontario

Canadians expect to live in a society where the criminal justice system is fair and impartial and supports the needs of victims. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting every Canadian’s rights and improving access to justice for Canadians.

This week, the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities, on behalf of the Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, accompanied by Arielle Kayabaga, Member of Parliament for London West, Mohammed Hashim, Executive Director of the Canadian Race Relation Foundation (CRRF), and Mohammed Baobaid, Executive Director of the Muslim Resource Centre for Social Support and Integration Inc. (MRCSSI), announced funding for the MRCSSI’s Culturally Integrative Coordinated Community Support Program.

“At the heart of our government’s stance in the fight of hatred and violence lies our commitment to providing compassionate support to victims of hate crimes. The tragic loss of Our London Family is also a stark reminder of the importance of building communities where tolerance and acceptance prevail, and where victims are heard and can find the support they need. This funding will support the important work the MRCSSI is doing to help the community navigate these tough times. Our combined efforts shine a light on hope and healing for Our London Family but also the Muslim communities across Canada, ” said the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities.

This project provides culturally appropriate counseling services to families, individuals and victims of the Muslim community affected by the horrific killing of Our London Family in Ontario in 2021. As the ongoing trial of the accused person revives traumas, this funding aims to ensure increased victims support for the London Muslim community.

“Two years since the horrific killing of Our London Family, the London Muslim community is continuing to work through the aftermath and trauma. The Canadian Race Relations Foundation believes that culturally responsive support services are in dire need, and the MRCSSI is ideally positioned to meet that need. We’re pleased to contribute $60,000 to support them in that ongoing work,” said Mohammed Hashim, Executive Director of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation.

The MRCSSI is a not-for-profit social services and anti-violence organization whose mission is centred around nurturing caring communities to assist families and individuals in overcoming challenges, managing conflict and ensuring safety and wellbeing. Its Culturally Integrative Coordinated Community Support Program project provides culturally appropriate services to the Muslim community, including counseling, therapeutic groups, workshops and increased awareness initiatives and engagement.

“We aim to extend much-needed culturally integrative support and counseling to the community through this program. This partnership stands as a beacon of hope, healing, and unity in the face of adversity, emphasizing the commitment to creating safer and stronger communities for all,” said Mohammed Baobaid, Executive Director, Muslim Resource Centre for Social Support and Integration Inc.

Justice Canada is providing the MRCSSI with $202,131 over one fiscal year (2023-2024) through the Victims Fund for its Culturally Integrative Coordinated Community Support Program. CRRF is also providing the MRCSSI with $60,000 over two fiscal years (2023-2025) to support this program.