NDP honours the memory of the Afzaal family marking four years since the devastating terror attack in London

LONDON – NDP MPPs Peggy Sattler (London West), Teresa Armstrong (London-Fanshawe), and Terence Kernaghan (London North Centre) have issued the following statement:

“Four years ago, our community was left in shock after one of the most devastating tragedies in London’s history. A violent act of hatred and Islamophobia killed the Afzaal family and left the Muslim community, in London and across the province, severely wounded,” said MPP Peggy Sattler. “We honour and remember the Afzaal family not only for the heart break and loss experienced, but also for the legacy they leave behind.”

“This anniversary is not only a moment for the community to mourn and reflect, but it’s a moment to act,” said MPP Teresa Armstrong. “Attacks like this have no place in our cities, our provinces, and our country. We owe this to the Afzaal family, and to every community targeted by such cowardly behaviour.”

“Londoners will never forget what happened four years ago, it is written on our hearts,” said MPP Terence Kernaghan. “We’ve seen the pain ripple throughout the community, now we must turn our grief into action. We cannot and will not let this horrific act fade into the background. We will listen to the community and commit to real change to ensure that no family lives in fear of hate and discrimination.”

Alongside London NDP MPPs, the Ontario NDP remains committed to working with the Muslim community, advocates, and all parties at Queen’s Park to continue consultations on the Our London Family Act to build towards solutions to keep communities safe, address systemic racism, and ensure equity and safety for all.

BACKGROUND:

• The Ontario NDP hosted consultations in London, Toronto, Mississauga, and Ottawa, where community members spoke about their children being bullied at school, the fear of wearing religious or cultural garments in public, and the growing sense that their safety is not guaranteed. Members of the community called for stronger protections, clear accountability, and real action.
• These consultations are part of the Ontario NDP’s ongoing work to confront hate, support survivors, and propose meaningful legislative solutions.
• The Ontario NDP will continue working alongside the Muslim community, advocates to respond to the urgent need for change and helps build a safer, more inclusive Ontario for all.