A woman wearing a hijab narrowly escaped being set on fire at an Ontario library in what authorities have described as an unprovoked assault. The victim, whose account was relayed by a representative from the National Council of Canadian Muslims during a press briefing on Monday, expressed shock over the terrifying ordeal that unfolded during what was supposed to be a peaceful visit to the library.
According to Durham Regional Police, the incident occurred at the Ajax Public Library when an unidentified woman began hurling insults and objects at the victim while she was studying. The assailant, a 25-year-old suspect, allegedly attempted to remove the victim’s hijab and poured an unknown substance on it, prompting fears of a potential fire.
The victim, in a statement, shared her distress, questioning the potential consequences if the situation had escalated further. The suspect fled the scene but was apprehended later and now faces charges of assault with a weapon and violating probation orders.
The National Council of Canadian Muslims is calling for a thorough investigation of the incident as a hate crime, denouncing the surge in Islamophobic acts in recent years. The organization emphasized the need for political leaders to address and combat such violence collectively.
Describing the attack as “horrific,” the NCCM’s chief operating officer expressed frustration and anger over the persistence of Islamophobia in society. With the upcoming federal election, the group is urging political parties to devise comprehensive strategies to combat Islamophobia, citing past tragic events like the London, Ont., terror attack and the Quebec City mosque shooting as stark examples of hate turning lethal.
The NCCM disclosed that their helpline has received numerous reports of Islamophobia-related incidents in the past year, highlighting the underreporting to law enforcement due to community distrust. The incident at the library was condemned by Ajax’s deputy mayor during the news conference, emphasizing the need to confront intolerance and hatred in the community.
In response to the incident, the Town of Ajax issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to maintaining safe and inclusive spaces, condemning any acts of violence or hate within town facilities or public areas.
