As Muslims across Canada and around the world gather to celebrate Eid al-Adha, Prime Minister Mark Carney has acknowledged that this year’s festival carries special emotional weight — falling on the fourth anniversary of the London, Ontario terrorist attack that claimed the lives of four members of the Afzaal family.
“Eid reminds us that we are bound by a common humanity and a sacred obligation to take care of ourselves and each other,” Carney said in a statement released Friday. “This year, that message carries a heavy weight.”
Carney joined others, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, in commemorating Eid al-Adha, known as the Festival of Sacrifice, one of the two most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar. But for many in Canada, this Eid also marks a moment of reflection and mourning.
“We mourn the loss today of Salman, Madiha, Yumnah, and Talat, members of the Afzaal family, who four years ago this day in London were victims of a heinous act of terrorism,” Carney said during remarks at an Eid celebration hosted by the Muslim Association of Canada in Ottawa.
The 2021 attack shocked the nation. A truck driver deliberately struck the Afzaal family as they walked together, killing all but the youngest son, who survived but was left orphaned. The tragedy sparked widespread calls to combat Islamophobia and protect the rights of Muslim Canadians.
At Friday’s gathering, Carney spoke openly about the “hatred fuelled by ignorance” that continues to affect Muslim communities across the country and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting religious hate and supporting inclusive values.
What is Eid al-Adha?
Eid al-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage — an obligation for Muslims who are physically and financially able to travel to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. The holiday begins on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and is celebrated over three days.
The festival commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. According to Islamic tradition, God intervened and provided a ram to sacrifice instead.
In honour of this act of faith, many Muslim families who can afford it perform Qurbani — the ritual sacrifice of an animal such as a sheep, goat, or cow — and distribute the meat among family, friends, and those in need.
Eid al-Adha is also marked by communal morning prayers, charitable giving (zakat), gift exchanges, and wearing new or traditional clothing. It’s a time for families to come together in joy, gratitude, and remembrance.
This year, as thousands gather in parks and mosques across Canada, many are not only celebrating but also reaffirming a collective commitment to peace, unity, and standing against hate.