Al Nusrat mosque in Montreal’s east end said it is starting a dialogue in wake of the Quebec City shooting.
Officials have opened up the doors to non-Muslims, inviting them to learn more about the faith.
READ MORE: Thousands attend Montreal funeral for 3 of Quebec City mosque shooting victims
“We want to explain to everybody that when you talk to a Muslim, that’s when you get to learn about a Muslim,” said Khalid Butt, a spokesperson for the mosque.
“Not from, perhaps, your small TV screen or from what you hear or read on social media.”
Dozens of mosques and prayer centres of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama`at community, which has locations across Canada, are inviting people of all religions to visit the mosques, ask questions and find out more about Islam.
The goal is to dispel stereotypes and open up the lines of communication.
READ MORE: Quebec premier condemns Trump, Leitch immigration stance; vows to tackle ‘violent racism’
“We always say Islam is about peace, so why do people associate violence with Islam?” said mosque president Faraz Ahmed.
” By bringing you and other people in here, we open up a channel to talk and we open ourselves up to questions.”
WATCH BELOW: Remembering the Quebec City mosque shooting victims
The mosque’s imam said since the attack in Quebec City, they’ve had no choice but to increase security.
However, he insists Canada is still a safe haven for all Muslims.
READ MORE: Montreal mosque vandalized: ‘It’s being investigated as a hate crime’
“Members of the community, they’ve migrated from countries like Bangledesh, Pakistan, the Middle East,” said Luqman Ahmed.
“We also have Syrians here who were persecuted for their faith back home and in that sense, Canada is a safe home for them.”
Other mosques in Montreal say they’ll also welcome people to visit.
The Islamic Centre of Quebec will be holding opens houses at some of its mosques on Feb. 12.