Students at Burman University held a vigil on Friday in response to the six men who recently lost their lives at a shooting in a Quebec City mosque.

Around 50 people were in attendance spreading messages of tolerance and inclusiveness. 

Second year student Kailey Smith was on hand to show her support and said just because Lacombe is a small city, it can still make an impact. 

“I’m someone who thinks that small changes will eventually make a big change,” said Smith.

“Just because it’s small it can still make a difference.”

Smith was shocked when she heard the news of the attack on the mosque in Quebec City and said being from Ontario made it that much more real for her.

“You think stuff like that happens in the states and I never really thought it would happen here (Canada),” said Smith.

“I’m originally from Ontario so Quebec is my neighbour and I used to go there all the time. It’s reality, but it’s shocking.”

Supporting each other is something Smith said she believes is important and to see how the country has come together after this tragic event just goes to show how kind people are.

“You need to let people know that they’re not alone. It may be tough now, but they have people who are there for them,” said Smith.

 “In a time of loss it’s the best time for people to come together and show how much they care about others.”

The Red Deer Islamic Center also opened the doors to its mosque over the weekend, to answer questions about Islam in order to help break down stereotypes. 

jguignard@goldenwestradio.com