VIA Rail apologized and launched an investigation into a viral video where a Muslim man was told to “pray outside” by a security guard at Ottawa Station..The footage of the March 20, 2023 incident shows a security guard arguing with the man whom he accused of “bothering” other passengers..“Don’t pray here, we don’t want you praying here,” the security guard says in the 27-second clip. “You’re bothering our other customers.”.The man responds that he had not received any complaints, adding: “Not one person had anything to say.”.Before walking away, the security guard replies: “Pray outside next time,” threatening to inform the man’s employers..In response to the footage, VIA Rail said in a statement: “First and foremost, we want to apologize unreservedly to the individuals involved and to the entire Muslim community.”.“Freedom of religion, including the ability to worship, is a human right and is enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. VIA Rail strongly condemns and will not tolerate any form of discriminatory behaviour.”.“We take this situation very seriously and are currently investigating the incident and will take the appropriate actions pending the outcome of that investigation.”
