MUN rallies behind Muslim community on campus

Memorial University reached out to the Muslim community on campus Tuesdayin a show of support following the shooting of sixpeople in a Quebec City mosque on the weekend.

"We were in a room that was bursting at the seams, which is a really great sign that everybody on campus is committed to ensuring that this is a community that fosters and welcomes anopen environment," said Jennifer Massey, director of student life at Memorial.

More than 100 people showed up in the students' union council chamber for "reflectionand prayer".

Those who spoke talked about healing and standing united against intolerance.

Still Affected

Ladan Mowlid, a Muslim woman from Toronto, who is president of the Black Students Association atMUN, was amazed at the turnout and show of support.

It definitely hurts, it's heavy on the heart.- Ladan Mowlid, MUN student

"I'm hurting because this is not what our country is all about. This is not what we stand for as people, as Canadians and most importantly as Muslims, so it definitely hurts, it's heavy on the heart," she said, her voice shaking.

Ahmed Khawer, president of the MUN Muslim Student Association, which represents more than 500 Muslims on campus, saidMuslims are overwhelmed by the love and support they'regetting in the community.

He saidmost are still in shock over what happened.

"Something happening anywhere in Canada is something that affects us. And where it's so close to home, you know? Quebec is only a few provinces away. Something happening here is shocking in a country like Canada," said Khawer.

Renata Lang, a director with Memorial University's Students' Union, said despite some students feeling on edge over the Quebec shooting, most say it's business asusual on campus.

"I haven't noticed students say they do feel unsafe on our campus. And thankfully we haven't seen acts of Islamophobia or xenophobia since I've been around so we do find our community is fairlyaccepting," said Lang.

On Friday people are invited to create a physical circle of support at 1 p.m. around Memorial's St. John's College chapel whereMuslim students and staff pray.

The Human Shield will coincide with other events at mosques across Canada.