QUEBEC – Leaders of Quebec Muslim community hosted a dinner on Tuesday, March 28, to thank politicians for their support after last January’s hate crime, which resulted in the death of six worshippers at Quebec mosque.

“We are especially grateful to Mayor Denis Coderre for organizing the public funeral of three of the victims so that we could all stand shoulder to shoulder as Muslims, Quebecers and Canadians with the families of the victims,” the event’s co-host Fariha Naqvi-Mohamed said, Montreal Gazette reported.

The official dinner, held at the Olympia Reception Hall in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, was a way to honor the elected officials who demonstrated leadership by speaking out against intolerance and Islamophobia in the weeks following the shooting.

Last January 29, six worshippers were killed and dozens injured when a gunman opened fire during prayers at a Quebec City mosque. The victims ranged in age from 35 to 70.

Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard said the shooting is an act of terrorism.

At the dinner, Quebec Mayor Denis Coderre asserted his support for diversity.

“I don’t believe in building walls. I believe in building bridges,” Coderre said to resounding applause.

“We are an open society, but we must be vigilant. Diversity makes us stronger.”

Imam Said Fawaz offered his thanks, singling out Quebec City Mayor Régis Labeaume for his sustained support.

Imam Hassan Guillet, who spoke with passion at the funerals of the victims, spoke of the enduring strength of Canadian and Quebec values as demonstrated by the country’s leaders.

Other politicians in attendance included federal Liberal MP Frank Baylis, Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis and Vrais changement pour Montréal leader and Pierrefonds-Roxboro councilor Justine McIntyre.