Toronto, Canada: International Christian Voice (ICV) successfully hosted the Martyr Shahbaz Bhatti Memorial Fundraiser and Book Launch 2026 at the Toronto Grand Convention Centre, bringing together faith leaders, elected officials, human rights advocates, and community members in a powerful evening dedicated to defending religious freedom and supporting victims of persecution.

The event honored the legacy of Shahbaz Bhatti, who was assassinated in 2011 for courageously defending the rights of religious minorities and opposing Pakistan’s blasphemy laws.

Bhatti ultimately paid the highest price for defending justice and religious freedom. Despite repeated threats to his life, he refused to abandon his country or the persecuted communities he represented, declaring he was ready to sacrifice his life for the protection of religious minorities. His martyrdom continues to inspire people around the world to stand for faith, freedom, and human dignity.

The gala served both as a tribute to Bhatti’s legacy and a successful fundraising initiative, mobilizing strong community support to help persecuted Christians find safety and rebuild their lives in Canada.

Keynote Address by Former Canadian Immigration Minister and Premier of Alberta, Jason Kenney

The keynote address was delivered by Jason Kenney, who shared a deeply personal and moving account of his friendship with Shahbaz Bhatti.

Kenney spoke about the first time he met Bhatti and how his unwavering Christian faith, courage, and determination to defend religious minorities set him apart from many others in public life. He described Shahbaz Bhatti as a leader who combined strong conviction with deep compassion for the oppressed.

During his remarks, Kenney recalled that after Bhatti received serious death threats from extremist groups, including the Taliban, he personally encouraged him to seek refuge in Canada for his safety. However, Bhatti firmly refused, responding that if he were to leave Pakistan, there would be no one left to stand for the persecuted Christian community and other religious minorities.

Kenney also spoke emotionally about the day he received the tragic news of Bhatti’s assassination in 2011. Despite the security risks and the absence of official clearance, he traveled to Pakistan to attend Bhatti’s funeral, honoring the memory of a man he described as a courageous defender of human dignity whose faith remained unshaken even in the face of death.

He concluded by emphasizing that Shahbaz Bhatti’s life and sacrifice continue to inspire people around the world to defend religious freedom and stand in solidarity with those persecuted for their beliefs.

Launch of Graphic Novel “Blood and Water”

A highlight of the evening was the launch of the graphic novel Blood and Water, which chronicles the life, faith, and martyrdom of Shahbaz Bhatti.

The panel discussion featured:

Knox Thames, producer of the graphic novel and former U.S. diplomat

Floyd Brobbel, CEO, The Voice of the Martyrs Canada

Matt Yocum, author of Blood & Water

Jordan Holt, illustrator of Blood & Water

The discussion explored Bhatti’s legacy and the continuing global struggle for religious freedom.

Distinguished Guests and Community Support

The event was attended by several prominent political and community leaders who expressed their solidarity with victims of persecution, including:

Patrick Brown — Mayor of the City of Brampton

Garnett Genuis — Member of Parliament for Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta

Amarjot Sandhu — Member of Provincial Parliament for Brampton West

Hardeep Singh Grewal — Member of Provincial Parliament for Brampton East

Amarjeet Gill — Member of Parliament for Brampton Centre

Michael Guglielmin — Member of Parliament for Vaughan—Woodbridge

Silvia Gualtieri — Member of Provincial Parliament for Mississauga—East Cooksville

Harkirat Singh — Regional Councillor and Deputy Mayor of Brampton

Rod Power — City Councillor, City of Brampton

Floyd Brobbel — Chief Executive Officer, The Voice of the Martyrs Canada

Faith leaders, churches, human rights organizations, donors, and volunteers from across the Greater Toronto Area also participated in the event.

Impact of International Christian Voice

During the program, ICV highlighted its humanitarian work and advocacy efforts over the past two decades.

Since receiving Sponsorship Agreement Holder status, International Christian Voice has helped bring more than 250 persecuted refugees to safety in Canada since 2017, providing them with protection, settlement support, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity.

ICV has also played an important role in advocating for persecuted minorities through international conferences, humanitarian assistance, and engagement with policymakers.

Supporting Victims of Persecution

This year’s fundraising initiative focuses on supporting two young Pakistani Christians who were falsely accused under Pakistan’s blasphemy laws and imprisoned for several years because of their faith.

During their imprisonment, both endured severe torture and pressure to renounce their Christian faith. Despite these threats, they remained steadfast in their beliefs.

Through the generosity of donors, churches, businesses, and community supporters, ICV aims to raise $70,000 to sponsor and support these individuals during their first year in Canada, helping them rebuild their lives in freedom and safety.

Leadership Statement

Peter Bhatti of International Christian Voice emphasized that the event represents both remembrance and action.

“Shahbaz Bhatti gave his life defending the rights of the oppressed and standing courageously for religious freedom. His sacrifice continues to inspire people around the world to stand for justice, faith, and human dignity.

The strong support we witnessed tonight demonstrates that Canadians continue to stand with victims of persecution and remain committed to defending religious freedom. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our generous supporters, dedicated volunteers, distinguished guests, and everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this meaningful event possible.”

About International Christian Voice

International Christian Voice is a Canadian registered charitable organization dedicated to advocating for persecuted Christians and religious minorities worldwide. Through humanitarian assistance, advocacy, and refugee sponsorship, the organization continues to amplify the voices of those who persecuted.