Press Statement
Attributable to the Spokesperson of the High Representative for the
United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
on the Killing of a Muslim Family in Canada
7 June 2021
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, strongly condemns the despicable attack that killed four members of a Muslim family after a truck driver plowed into them in London, Ontario on Monday 7 June. The vicious attack killed a man, his mother, his wife, their teenage daughter and seriously injured their son. According to police reports, the 20-year-old driver premeditated his crime and targeted his victims because they were Muslim.
In the face of such a heinous crime, Mr. Moratinos reminds us that we all have a role to play in combating hatred, intolerance, and violent extremism based on religion, belief or ethnicity. Today more than ever, as we witness a substantial rise in hate crimes and intolerance-related acts, we need to work together as one humanity and stand united against all forms of discrimination and racism.
With its motto, “Many cultures, One Humanity”, UNAOC is committed to work tirelessly to promote dialogue and mutual respect between civilizations and cultures and contribute to a more inclusive, diverse, and peaceful society.
On behalf of UNAOC, Mr. Moratinos expresses his deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of the victims, the Muslim community, and the people and Government of Canada.