Minister Toews issues statement condemning Al-Qaida’s naming of Coptic Christians in Canada on their website

Ottawa, December 21, 2010 – The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, today issued the following statement:

“Our Government strongly condemns the threats made against Canadians who are being targeted simply for practicing their right to freedom of religion. Threats of this kind against Canadians cannot and will not shake our resolve to respect and welcome people regardless of their religious beliefs.”

“The right to practice one’s religion free from intimidation is one of the fundamental pillars of a free and open society. We stand in solidarity with those in Canada and around the world who wish to practice their religion free from tyranny, threats and violence. It is for that reason that Canada has welcomed many groups persecuted on the basis of their minority religion status.”

Information:

Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657