Mayor Bevilacqua’s statement on Jolo church attack
We must actively work
to build safe, welcoming communities: Mayor Bevilacqua
The
following is a statement by Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua in response to
the deadly terrorist attacks at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel:
“On
behalf of the City of Vaughan and Members of Council, our thoughts and prayers
are with the parishioners from the Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and
the entire community of Jolo.
“Vaughan
joins cities from around the world to condemn the unthinkable and cowardly acts
of terrorism against these innocent lives. It is unacceptable that families
would be the target of horrendous violence, as they gather peacefully to
celebrate their faith and give back through acts of kindness, charity and
compassion.
“The
pain of these attacks is felt here at home. Vaughan is home to a vibrant,
active and engaged Filipino community. Each year, our entire community comes
together to mark Filipino Day and to raise the Filipino flag here at City Hall.
“The latest terrorist attacks are a clear reminder that it
is incumbent upon all of us to ensure that we use every opportunity to build
safe, welcoming and inclusive places to live, free from discrimination of any
kind.
“As
media reports continue to unfold about casualties and injuries, we are grateful
for the work of the brave first-responders who are caring for the victims and
their families, and who are bringing order to the situation.”
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