A Muslim family says a woman was allegedly assaulted at a Moncton car show after racist remarks were directed at them.
The incident happened over the car show weekend, according to information shared with the Moncton Muslim Association.
The association said the woman’s husband contacted the group and shared details of the incident.
He reported that his wife was allegedly assaulted in front of their seven‑year‑old child after the family was subjected to hateful and racist comments, according to the association.
In a statement, the association said no person should be targeted because of their faith, ethnicity or background, and no child should have to witness a traumatic event.
“Such acts have no place in Moncton, New Brunswick, or anywhere in Canada,” the association said.
The group said the matter has been reported to authorities and called for a full, fair and thorough investigation, including into any potential hate‑motivated elements.
The group also stated that they stand in solidarity with the family and are committed to working with community leaders, elected officials, law enforcement and residents to promote safety, dignity and respect.
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Premier Susan Holt said she is disturbed by the reported attack and offered support to the woman, her family and the Muslim community.
“No one should ever be targeted because of their faith, their race, or where they are from,” Holt said in her statement.
Holt said every person deserves to feel safe in New Brunswick and that Islamophobia and hate have no place in the province.
She highlighted that New Brunswick is strongest when people look out for one another.
The New Brunswick Multicultural Council said it is troubled by reports of the incident, which it said police are investigating as a possible hate crime.
The council said incidents like this are a reminder that Islamophobia and hate‑motivated violence remain a reality in the province.
The council also encouraged anyone who has experienced discrimination or a hate‑motivated incident to reach out to community leaders for support and directed residents to resources that are available online.
The Islamic Society of New Brunswick said it is saddened and outraged by the reported assault.
The group pointed out that the incident raises some serious concerns about Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hate in the province.
They’re calling on elected officials and law enforcement to speak out against Islamophobia and do something meaningful to keep everyone safe and respected.
Police have not released further details about the reported incident.
A video of the incident has been circulating on social media, and police are asking anyone with information or footage to contact them.
