The British Columbia Federation of Students extends heartfelt condolences to all of those affected by yesterday’s tragic shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand.

The student movement condemns such acts of racism, Islamophobia, and terrorism and recognizes that the sole purpose of these actions is to incite hatred, animosity, and division among us. We cannot let this happen.

We must all stand together in solidarity to oppose acts of hate. This is an opportunity to show those who seek to fuel bigotry and division that students and all people in British Columbia will not follow them.

“To all Muslim folks across the world, and our own members here in British Columbia, we want you to know that we stand in solidarity with you in the face of these abhorrent actions,” said Aran Armutlu, Chairperson of the British Columbia Federation of Students. “We will do all that we can on our campuses, across our province, and throughout our country to stand against acts of Islamophobia, white nationalism, and terrorism.”

We encourage everyone to seek out vigils and other actions that are being planned in communities across BC, Canada, and the world. Attend these actions to show your support for all people – especially Muslim people in this time of uncertainty and fear.