Family and Advocates Demand Action Against Islamophobia
A 54-year-old Muslim man remains in hospital after a violent, hate-motivated attack at a Markham hotel that police say occurred after the suspect learned of the victim’s faith.
York Regional Police say the incident happened in the early hours of September 28, following a verbal altercation that escalated when the accused realized the man was Muslim.
At a press conference Thursday organized by the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), the victim’s wife described watching her husband fight for his life.
“The man we know — strong, patient, and full of life — now carries pain that no one should ever have to endure,” she said. “This was not just an assault. This was an act of hate.”
The family, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, said the attack shattered their faith in Canada as a safe country.
“Our home is no longer filled with laughter. It is filled with fear and sleepless nights,” his wife said through tears. “I am speaking because I do not want another wife to pray in a hospital bed for her husband to survive an act of hate.”
National Outcry and Growing Anger
Officials and community advocates expressed anger and frustration, describing the attack as one of the most severe hate incidents they have seen in recent years.
Omar Khamissa, chief mobilization officer for NCCM, said:
“More than anything, I am angry. I have seen Muslims across Canada face continuous attacks. This one just might be one of the worst. It is disgusting.”
The incident comes amid a string of Islamophobic acts across Ontario — including threats against a mosque and a Muslim family’s home in Newmarket, and an earlier attempt to ignite a hijab at an Ajax library in March.
Charges and Police Response
Police have arrested a 31-year-old Toronto man, charging him with assault causing bodily harm and uttering threats. Investigators say they are in discussions with Crown prosecutors about potentially upgrading the charges given the hate-related motive.
Deputy Chief Kevin McCloskey said Thursday that York police are treating the case with the “highest level of seriousness.”
National Calls to Confront Islamophobia
Amira Elghawaby, Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia, said the attack underscores the urgent need for a coordinated national response.
“Muslims in Canada deserve safety, dignity, and inclusion in every corner of Canadian life,” she said.
“Everyone must stand against Islamophobia and counter the hateful narratives fueling this dangerous climate.”
The NCCM has called for governments, police agencies, and school boards to strengthen anti-hate protocols and improve reporting systems to prevent future attacks.
