BC Muslim Association strengthening safety protocols across masjids, facilities after San Diego attack

FOLLOWING Monday’s attack at the Islamic Center in San Diego, U.S., the BC Muslim Association (BCMA) said on Tuesday that it is “reviewing and strengthening safety protocols across our masjid, facilities, and upcoming community activities to help ensure our spaces remain safe, welcoming, and spiritually grounded.”

As The VOICE reported on Monday, a security guard and two other adults were shot dead at the Islamic Center. Two teenage suspects died from self-inflicted wounds. San Diego Police said they are actively investigating the incident as a hate crime. Police found a hate message on one of the weapons. One of the teens left a suicide note that contained hate speech. Police said the security guard’s actions were heroic and that he undoubtedly saved lives. All children, teachers and staff were unharmed.

BCMA President Dr. Adel Guitouni said in a statement: “The BC Muslim Association is heartbroken by the horrific attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego, where three lives were taken and an entire community was left grieving, shaken, and traumatized.

“On behalf of the BCMA and Muslim congregations across British Columbia, we extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ families, pray for healing for all those harmed, and stand in unwavering solidarity with the Muslim community of San Diego.

“We honour the courage and sacrifice of the security guard who, according to officials, acted heroically and helped prevent an even greater tragedy. His bravery reminds us of the sacred duty to protect life and community. We pray that Allah grants him mercy, elevates his rank, and brings comfort to his family and loved ones.

“No one should ever fear for their life while in prayer. No child should ever have to be rushed from a place of worship or learning in fear for their safety. A mosque, like every place of worship, must be a sanctuary of peace, dignity, and protection for families, children, elders, students, and worshippers alike.

“The BCMA unequivocally rejects all forms of violence, hatred, and exclusion. We stand against Islamophobia, antisemitism, racism, xenophobia, and every ideology that dehumanizes people or targets communities because of their faith, identity, or background. In this moment, we must also name the urgent and growing threat of anti-Muslim hate, which continues to place Muslim communities at risk.

“Authorities have stated that this attack is being investigated as a possible hate crime. While the investigation continues, the pain and fear felt by Muslim communities are immediate and real. Islamophobia is not an abstract concern. It has devastating consequences for families, children, seniors, students, and worshippers who are made to feel unsafe simply because of their faith.

“Condemnations are necessary, but they are not enough. We call on municipal, provincial, and federal leaders to take urgent and sustained action against Islamophobia and hate in all its forms. This includes stronger protection for places of worship and Islamic schools, improved reporting and response mechanisms for hate incidents, dedicated investment in anti-Islamophobia education, and direct engagement with Muslim communities on safety, dignity, and belonging.

“We also call on civic leaders, educators, media organizations, interfaith partners, and all people of conscience to reject the normalization of anti-Muslim hate. Silence and indifference allow hatred to grow. Every institution has a responsibility to challenge dehumanizing rhetoric, confront misinformation, and stand against the ideologies that make violence thinkable.

To our Muslim Community and families across British Columbia: we know this news brings pain, anxiety, and concern close to home. Your safety remains our highest priority. The BCMA is reviewing and strengthening safety protocols across our masjid, facilities, and upcoming community activities to help ensure our spaces remain safe, welcoming, and spiritually grounded.

“In this moment of grief, we respond with unity, faith, vigilance, and care for one another. We invite community members to gather in our masajid in the coming days for special du’a for those affected, and for community circles of support, reassurance, and collective healing.

“May Allah grant mercy to the victims, healing to all those harmed, strength to their families, and peace and protection to all communities.”