Latest news with #AmiraElghawaby
CTV News
3 days ago
- Politics
- CTV News
London's commemoration of Afzaal family
Hundreds gathered at a vigil Friday night in London, Ont., to commemorate four years since the brutal killing of the Afzaal family. 'It's so important for us to remember what happened, to remember this family and recommit to standing united against all forms of hatred, including Islamophobia,' said Amira Elghawaby, a Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia. The family was out for an evening walk on June 6, 2021, when they were run over by Nathaniel Veltman, who was later convicted of first-degree murder and deemed a terrorist by the courts. 'It happened because they were Muslim which is deeply, deeply painful for Canadians across the country and of course London Muslims,' said Elghawaby. Advocates expressed events like this one help bring the community together, show solidarity and respect for human rights. 'This is really a whole of society issue that all Canadians benefit from supporting and addressing,' said Elghawaby. The Youth Coalition Combating Islamophobia organized the event, to ensure no other families are destroyed as a result of hate. 'We believe that silence is an enabler of hatred,' said Malik Khandakar, YCCI communications director. 'We feel the signs you give are an agreement and if you don't speak up against hatred this allows people to think it's ok.' Khandakar said more must be done to put an end to Islamophobia. 'We feel it needs a larger community because we can't just speak for ourselves. We need to have other people come out and gather. That's an important aspect of how we can move forward,' said Khandakar.
Cision Canada
4 days ago
- Politics
- Cision Canada
Statement by Minister Guilbeault on Eid al-Adha
The Government of Canada issues a statement to mark Eid al-Adha. OTTAWA, ON, June 6, 2025 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, issued the following statement: Today, Muslim communities in Canada and around the world are marking Eid al-Adha. This sacred day in the Islamic calendar celebrates the conclusion of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, known as the Hajj. It is observed with morning prayers, social and family gatherings, festive meals and charitable donations to the most vulnerable people in our society. The spirit of Eid al-Adha—meaning the Feast of Sacrifice or Greater Eid—is one of happiness and gratitude. Yet it comes at a time of ongoing war and conflict, bringing fear and anxiety to Canadians with loved ones in Gaza, the West Bank, Sudan and many other regions. Canada remains committed to supporting ceasefire efforts in Gaza, as well as the urgent safe and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid for civilians. This year, the holiday also coincides with the fourth anniversary of the tragic terrorist attack on a Canadian Muslim family killed in London, Ontario on June 6, 2021. Fondly remembered as "Our London Family," their lives were taken simply because they were Muslim, in a horrifying act of Islamophobia. Our government stands with the community in London, with all those affected by this tragedy, and with all victims of Islamophobia and every form of hatred. We are committed to ensuring that all Canadians feel safe and protected in their communities. This includes providing at-risk communities with access to financial support to protect their gathering spaces and to launch local initiatives that bring Canadians together and combat racism. We also continue to work with Canada's Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia, Amira Elghawaby, to fight Islamophobia, including with The Canadian Guide on Understanding and Combatting Islamophobia: For a more inclusive Canada. The Canadian identity is rooted in our diversity. Canada is stronger because of its people, their different backgrounds, and the stories that make our mosaic one of the most vibrant and unique in the world. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish all Muslims in Canada a happy Eid al-Adha, celebrated in unity, solidarity and peace. Eid Mubarak! "!عيد مبارك
Associated Press
15-03-2025
- Politics
- Associated Press
Statement by Special Representative Amira Elghawaby on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia
Special Representative Amira Elghawaby makes a statement to highlight the International Day to Combat Islamophobia OTTAWA, ON, March 15, 2025 /CNW/ - Amira Elghawaby, Canada's Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia, issued the following statement: 'Today is the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. It is an important opportunity to reflect on the systemic barriers faced by Muslim communities in Canada and around the world, and to reaffirm our commitment to combatting Islamophobia and all forms of discrimination and intolerance. Islamophobia includes racism, stereotypes, prejudice, fear or acts of hostility directed toward Muslims. In addition to individual acts of intolerance and racial profiling, Islamophobia can unfairly lead to viewing and treating Muslims as a greater security threat on an institutional and societal level. Islamophobia harms all communities and threatens the fundamental values of equality, human rights and freedom that are among the cornerstones of Canadian democracy. All too frequently, individuals and communities are confronted with acts of hatred and violence because of their faith. We must unite to denounce this form of hate and support its victims, who deserve to live in peace and dignity. The federal government has taken important steps to combat all forms of racism and hate: the proposed Online Harms Act; the recently unveiled Canada's Action Plan on Combatting Hate, which includes increased funding to support the work of the Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia; enhancements to the Canada Community Security Program; and Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy. These measures demonstrate our commitment to the well-being of everyone, including Canadian Muslim communities. Earlier this month, my Office published a new guide, The Canadian Guide on Understanding and Combatting Islamophobia: For a more inclusive Canada, to address the root causes of systemic racism and offer various strategies to create a more just and equitable society for everyone. To protect social cohesion and uphold human rights, all Canadians can play a role by challenging disinformation and stereotypes, as well as engaging in opportunities for dialogue and education. On this International Day to Combat Islamophobia, let's work together to build a safer and fairer Canada for everyone, where all Canadians can freely practise their faith, without fear and in peaceful co-existence.'
