image: rabble.ca

After Tuesday’s shootings, peace vigils were held across Canada. This statement was released by peacequest in Kingston:

We are afraid for our sisters and brothers in the Muslim community, who may become, in the coming days, victims of retaliation and backlash they in no way deserve; 

We are afraid of how our government will use this event as a reason to further tighten security against all citizens, further erode privacy and freedom, and further an agenda of militarism; 

We are afraid that more Canadian soldiers will die as victims of violence; 

We are afraid that this country that we love will descend into mistrust, fear of neighbour, and expressions of racism and hatred; 

We are afraid that the peace and freedom and respect for civilian rights will be replaced by a state that does not resemble the country we know and love. 

We would call on all neighbours to send thoughts and prayers for the families who have lost their sons today, refuse to allow our grief to be interpreted as a call to war, and to stand fast for the pillars of respect, tolerance, welcome, and civil liberty that are the hallmarks of our nation. 

Respectfully signed at a peace vigil held tonight at Sydenham Street United Church, 

Rev. Dr. Nan Hudson, in ministry at Faith United Church, Kingston 

Mabel Corlett, Sydenham Street United Church 

Kate Johnson, Chaplain 

Jamie Swift 

Tara Kainer 

Jolene Cheryl Simko 

Judith Wyatt 

Bronek Korczynski 

Elaine Berman 

Rev. Steve Hoffard, St. Marks Lutheran Church, Kingston 

Rev. Elizabeth Macdonald, Sydenham Street United Church, Kingston 

Annie Richard 

Amy Solc 

Diane Fitsell 

David Wyatt