I’m at Churchill Square outside #yeg city hall where there’s a crowd growing here for a rally demanding action and to protect Muslim women after two sisters were attacked in St. Albert on Wednesday.
Here’s a look at the scene
A bunch of people here with signs saying things like “stronger social media laws,” “policy change now,” “gov’t act now,” “end anti-Muslim hate,” “stop islamophobia,” “criminalize anti Muslim hate,” and “criminalize hate crimes now. Your words don’t protect us” #yeg
So far I’ve counted more than 300 people here. They’re waiting another 15 minutes before they start. #yeg
Starting now with a reading from the Koran.
Some compelling comments from speakers. Sahra Kaahiye, a family friend of the women attacked at Southgate last year, said statements against Islamophobia aren’t enough.
”Statements will not keep us safe. Statements won’t save my family,” she said. “We are done talking. We want action.”
I convinced one of my best friends to get her COVID-19 vaccine, and I’m so happy! I found out why she was hesitant, and worked to help alleviate her specific worries and sent her some reliable, good info.
People have different reasons for being skeptical or hesitant about vaccines. I asked and listened to her to find out why, and she listened to me because we have a good relationship and care about each other.
Reach out to the people in your life who haven’t been vaccinated and find out why. Ask questions with patience and empathy. Vaccines have become political and there are a lot of strong emotions, fears, and often valid skepticism and mistrust.