By Fareen Qureishi

(June 28, 2014) – It started with one, simple idea: Feed families in need in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), no matter who they are.

In early 2009, after hearing the staggering statistics that more than 25 per cent of the GTA’s residents live in poverty, and how 10,000 Torontonians struggle to find their next meal, a local group of students-turned-activists decided to stop talking about how they wanted to make a difference, and start making it happen.

That summer, Project Ramadan became a reality.

Capitalizing on the inevitable spirit of community giving that comes about during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, the founders decided to build baskets with enough food staples to feed a family of four for one month, costing the donor only $50.

Any family, irrespective of religion, nationality, caste or creed, would be eligible to receive a basket.

The group rallied together friends and family, tapped into professional and personal networks, and put out a call to action.

Volunteers, donations and supplies were needed, but enthusiasm was in high supply.

“We knew it was important to be transparent, and allow community members to see exactly where their hard-earned donations were going,” said Hassan Syed, one of Project Ramadan`s founding members. “That`s why we partnered with the Muslim Welfare Centre (MWC), a respected community organization with a mission and passion similar to our own.”

Through their food bank network of more than 6,000 registered users in Scarborough and Mississauga, Project Ramadan`s strategic partnership with the MWC allowed the team to deliver baskets across the GTA efficiently and effectively.

This also kept operating costs low — abysmal, even.

With every minute of time associated with the Project strictly volunteered, and the basket building space donated by the MWC, Project Ramadan can focus its resources on what it does best: build baskets, and build bridges.

Like any organization vowing to make social change, it`s never a one-person show.

Each summer, hundreds of volunteers come together to make baskets, make friends, and above all, make a difference.

“Project Ramadan was a wonderful experience. This project is not only an opportunity to support underserved families, but to harness the energy of youth and humbly remind them of the importance of serving their communities,” said Sara Hassan, an avid volunteer. “The project builds are well organized and a lot of fun, and allow participants to see the tangible impact of their work.”

Five years later, the organization sees no sign of slowing down.

Since its inception, Project Ramadan has raised approximately $260,000 and helped more than 3,300 families in the GTA.

The ways to get involved are numerous: a $50 donation goes directly to feeding families, while a donation of supplies for baskets goes a long way in making food packages bigger, better, and more beneficial to those who receive them. Join a basket build day and see how it all comes together, or build awareness by spreading the word through the community and social media.

“It`s amazing to see how far we`ve come since day one,” said Asma Nur Moten, Project Ramadan Volunteer Manager. “Every donation we receive, and every volunteer that spends their day with us, makes me feel like we reached our goal, we built something real, and it only goes up from here.”

Check out www.projectramadan.com  and www.muslimwelfarecentre.com to donate, volunteer, and learn more.

OTF funded sewing clubs in Thorncliffe through The Intergeneration Community Network Services

(July 3, 2014) – The Olive Tree Foundation, Canada’s oldest waqf (endowment) institution, has announced its Annual Ramadan Campaign to raise funds in support of local projects and make a difference in the community.

The Foundation, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, has given tens of thousands of dollars in grants to Canadian charities as well as scholarships and bursaries to students.

”Canadian Muslims can make a significant contribution to our society if we were to direct a portion of our Ramadan donations annually to projects in this country,” said Muneeb Nasir, President of the Olive Tree Foundation told Iqra.ca. “The Olive Tree Foundation funds come from two sources – named awqaaf (endowments) that has been set up by Canadians, and the Annual Ramadan campaign.”

OTF is funding Environics Institute’s Survey of Canadian Muslims. Dr. Keith Neuman, Executive Director of Environics Institute provides update to community.

In its effort to continue funding innovative and change inducing projects in Canada, the Olive Tree Foundation has launched its Annual Ramadan Campaign.

“One unique aspect of the Foundation’s work is that all the money is generated through endowment funds and donations by Canadians, and is invested back in Canada, to make life better right here at home,” said Naeem Siddiqi, Vice-President of the Olive Tree Foundation. “Through strategic and judicious use of these grants the Olive Tree Foundation has created positive change in the community.”

The donations from last year’s Ramadan Campaign have been used to make a difference, according to Naeem Siddiqi.

OTF funded the building of computers at the Youth Troopers for Global Awareness’s space in Studio 89

He said that the grants awarded to charities this past year reduced the isolation of newcomers, and taught them valuable skills by funding sewing clubs in Thorncliffe through The Intergeneration Community Network Services; provided computing resources for young artists, through funding the building of computers at the Youth Troopers for Global Awareness’s space in Studio 89; and increased awareness of the role of Muslims and Islam in Canada though funding of Environics Institute’s Survey of Canadian Muslims.

“We trust we can once again count on the generous support of the community this year, so that we can continue to fund such ground-breaking projects,” said Muneeb Nasir. “Let’s make life better … right here at home.”

Find information about the campaign here: Annual Ramadan campaign

Donations can be made online at: http://bit.ly/1vwddPT

(July 7, 2014) – The Islamic Institute of Toronto’s (IIT) Youth Council and the Muslims for White Ribbon Campaign have launched a Ramadan food drive in support of a women’s shelter.

“Ramadan is a time to be generous and support a good cause,” said Surayya Khan of the IIT Youth Council. “We choose to support a women’s shelter this Ramadan as they provide vital support and shelter to women and children escaping violence.”

The community is being asked to donate non-perishable food items that can be dropped off at the Islamic Institute of Toronto during the month of Ramadan.

The Ramadan Food drive is being co-sponsored by the Muslims for White Ribbon Campaign (MWRC) which was launched three years ago by a group of Muslim men who pledged to join other Canadians in working to end violence against women.

“One of the goals of the Muslims for White Ribbon Campaign is to create partnerships among Islamic Centres, women’s shelters and social agencies to create a future without violence against women,” said Umar Nasir, Co-Chair of the Muslims for White Ribbon Campaign. “The food drive is an excellent initiative towards this end.”

The Muslims for White Ribbon Campaign is part of the White Ribbon Campaign which is the largest grassroots effort in the world of men working to end violence against women.

The Campaign aims to break the silence on violence against women in the Muslim community by encouraging Mosques and organizations to sponsor awareness events and deliver a Friday Khutba on this issue.

“Today, we delivered a van-full of food to a Women’s shelter in Toronto,” Umar Nasir told IQRA.ca.

“The Ramadan Food Drive will assist a women’s shelter but also raise awareness of the issue of violence against women,” added Umar Nasir.

The host charity of the Ramadan Food Drive, the Islamic Institute of Toronto, is a federally registered educational institution. Its mission is to nurture and establish Islam as a living reality in the lives of Muslims and to enhance the Islamic identity in society at large.

“Today, we delivered a van-full of food to a Women’s shelter in Toronto,” Umar Nasir told IQRA.ca. “May Allāh reward, with goodness, all those who have donated to our food drive, so far.”

“We will continue to collect food items throughout the month for the shelter,” he added.

[On June 27th, 2014 the Intercultural Dialogue Institute (IDI - GTA) held a Pre-Ramadan Dinner at the Art Gallery of Mississauga as part of its annual series of “Community Iftar (fast-breaking) Dinners” during the month of Ramadan.

The Iftar dinners bring together people of various faith and ethno-cultural backgrounds and serve as a means of fostering dialogue and cross-cultural awareness. Each of these dinners has received many attendees from all walks of life including government representatives, MPs, MPPs, diplomats, bureaucrats, professionals, business people, representatives from media and academia, as well as religious and community leaders.

The keynote address at the Pre-Ramadan Dinner was delivered by Muneeb Nasir, President of the Olive Tree Foundation. The following is the text of his speech].

The Sacred Art of Fasting

By Muneeb Nasir

Greetings of Peace, mercy and blessings of God – Assalaamu ‘alaikum.

I would like to thank the Intercultural Dialogue Institute for this kind invitation to speak and reflect on fasting that is on the minds and preoccupying ten of millions of people throughout the world today.

As we speak, families are making plans, children are getting excited, homes are being decorated, special foods and ingredients are being purchased, there is an air of expectation to welcome a most noble guest, Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting.

In homes, villages, towns, and cities, Muslims are responding to the call of God found in Qur’an, the Muslim scriptures:

“You who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was on those before you, so that you may be mindful of God.”(Qur’an, 2:183).

In the overwhelming response of Muslims, we are seeing an incredible showcase of faith and commitment to God.

Fethullah Gulen, the contemporary Muslim religious leader, wrote poetically about the excitement of Ramadan and uniqueness of fasting that Muslims are eagerly await tonight.

He wrote in an article, “The Month Overflowing With Mercy”[1]

“Throughout Ramadan a sacred excitement that never fully ceases, can be sensed in the air; every single moment – from the legendary fascination of the nights to the mysterious minutes before dawn, from the course of days blessed by Ramadan, to the colors of the Ramadan dawn with its heavenly inspiration; a different flood of emotions prevail every moment.”

Ramadan is set to begin in a few hours and there is excitement in the air.

Ramadan is well known as the famous month-long fast of Islam.

Ramadan is actually also the proper name of a specific month in the Islamic calendar – it is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar which is a lunar calendar.

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, every single day throughout the entire month.

This is not considered optional for the religiously observant Muslim but is regarded as a compulsory religious duty – it is one of “Five Pillars of Islam.”

Fasting during Ramadan means no eating, no drinking (not even water), and no marital relations from dawn till dusk.

Fasting is not required of young children, and exceptions are permitted for illness, old age, pregnancy, and similar extenuating circumstances.

In the month of Ramadan, the Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him, first began to receive the divine revelations from God that would then continue for the remaining 23 years of his life, and which would subsequently be compiled by his followers as the holy Quran, which Muslims revere as the actual Word of God.

In addition to fasting, Ramadan is also a month of increased worship and special prayers, it is the month of reading and recitation of the entire Quran, it is the month of religious devotion and spiritual reflection, it is the month of self-examination and charity to the poor and solidarity with the disadvantaged.

The daily fast is broken at sunset with an evening meal known as Iftar.

The Iftar meal is frequently a chance for social gathering and religious fellowship.

The entire month-long fast of Ramadan concludes with the festive annual celebration of Eid al-Fitr, one of the Islamic calendar’s major holidays.

Fasting is a tradition found in all major religions.

The religious grounds for fasting include purification, repentance, rejoicing, self-discipline, remembering and prioritizing God, giving charity, and social solidarity.

Rev. Thomas Ryan, a Catholic Priest and member of the Paulist Fathers, wrote in his book, ‘The Sacred Art of Fasting’, that fasting in all religions is not just about penance and punishing one’s self – but fasting is indeed a sacred art that transcends the physical act of deprivation:

“Fasting as a religious act increases our sensitivity to that mystery always and everywhere present to us…. It is an invitation to awareness, a call to compassion for the needy, a cry of distress, and a song of joy. It is a discipline of self-restraint, a ritual of purification, and a sanctuary for offerings of atonement. It is a wellspring for the spiritually dry, a compass for the spiritually lost, and inner nourishment for the spiritually hungry.”[2]

In Islam, fasting is a sacred art.

The primary purpose for fasting in Islam is to achieve greater consciousness of God, prioritizing God in one’s life to achieve greater spiritual awareness – it is as Rev. Thomas Ryan states, ‘inner nourishment for the spiritually hungry.’

There is a saying in one of the sacred traditions (hadith Qudsi) that Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him, said, “God said, ‘All the deeds of sons of Adam (people) are for them, except fasting which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.’

As God rewards, fasting is the wellspring for the spiritually dry.

A few years ago (2009), the Vancouver Sun columnist, Douglas Todd, wrote an article: “Some people engage in alternative spiritual practices including meditation, crystal gazing, nature retreats, tai chi, labyrinth walking, yoga, channelling, dream work, chanting, and even dietary restrictions for internal “cleansings.”

In contrast to some of these popular eclectic practices, for those Canadian Muslims who are religiously observant (which is not all, by any means) they fast (and he marvelled that): “Ramadan is quite a big commitment, especially during August.”[3]

Douglas Todd recognised that what Muslims are doing in Ramadan is counter-cultural and quite extraordinary in today’s world which looks suspiciously at religious practices such as fasting.

Ramadan is indeed a big commitment and it is not quite that easy for those who are not initiated into the art of fasting.

It is a month of abrupt changes.

For a month, the fasting person takes a break from their usual lives to return to meaning and essentials, breaking with their habits of consumption, and interrupting the rhythms of their daily life.

The abrupt changes brought about in Ramadan are an invitation to a transformation and reform of ourselves.

At the heart of our consumer society, where we are used to easy access to anything we wish, and where we are driven by individualism in our daily lives, this month requires from everyone that we come back to the centre and the meaning of our life.

The Muslim scholar, Fethullah Gulen said, “It (Ramadan) is a banquet of emotions and ideas for everyone in varying dimensions, and reminds us all, one more time, about life.”[4]

Ramadan is asking us to ask ourselves: What meaning have I given to my life?

What about God in my life?

We become so immersed in the life of this world that we loose the awareness required to live as a moral person.

Zoologists tell us that it is unlikely that creatures deep in the sea have any kind of awareness of what it means to be wet.

But the irony is not restricted to fish.

The greater the immersion, the less aware we become of it.

This is an observation generally agreed upon among religions, that there is indeed an immersion in the fleeting realm, and it’s nearly impossible to escape it without help.[5]

Immmersion in the fleeting world can lead to unawareness of the divine.

And after a while, we’re disabled from even noticing.

We end up going through life in a trance and in auto-pilot.

Sociologists tell us of a phenomenon they refer to as urban trance – people on the streets are less likely to notice, greet or offer assistance to others – they are busy texting on their cell phones or scrolling away on their smart phones or plugged into some device.

This social autism is a consequence of technology’s invasion into our daily lives.

We’re so wired to technology that we’re disconnecting from who we’re wired to be – kind, compassionate and emphatic human beings who take interest in others, serve others, grateful to others, and grateful to God.

Ramadan comes every year to help us – it is a knock on the door; it is an invitation to walk out of the cave; It is an invitation to come out of this trance like state.

A few years ago, the then Toronto Star columnist, Rick Salutin described his experience of fasting in Ramadan.

He wrote: “For a few days this week, my son and I had some Muslim Arab kids from the Mideast, ages 8 and 12, up at the cottage. They’ve been in Canada for two years. Since it was Ramadan, we decided to fast with them.”

Salutin describes his experience of fasting: “It induced a kind of — I don’t know the precise word — quietude, even in young kids. You husband your resources, consciously and/or unconsciously. Almost by default, a sort of meditative mood sets in.”

Rick Salutin concluded that in today’s world people could all do with “a dose of Ramadan (under another name) as it might restore some calm and an ability to think rationally.”[6]

Fasting brings us out of auto-pilot mode but it also gives us a heightened sense of the social inequalities in the world.

Fasting forces us to question the way we relate to wealth and consumption because we experience hunger and thirst on a very personal level, and can sympathize with those in the world who have little to eat every day.

It forces us to be concerned about the thousands of our fellow citizens who are dealing with poverty or who are homeless on any given night.

It awakens us to the fact that we are being clothed through the sweat of workers in developing countries who are, for the most part, not being paid fair wages.

Ramadan gives us this sensitivity to the social injustices and it also give us an appreciation of the many blessings we have.

The sacred art of fasting in Ramadan is not just about abstention from food and drink.

The Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him, in a tradition (hadith), said:

“Many people who fast get nothing from their fast except hunger and thirst, and many people who pray at night get nothing from it except wakefulness” (Hadith).

The Prophet Muhammad, peace be him, said, “Fasting is not only to leave food and drink. Verily, it is fasting from vain and obscene speech. If one of you is abused or offended, let him say twice: I am fasting.” (Hadith).

So there is also an inner dimension to fasting.

During Ramadan, every part of the body must be restrained. The tongue must be restrained from backbiting and gossip. The eyes must be restrained from looking at unlawful things. The hand must not touch or take anything that does not belong to it. The ears must refrain from listening to idle talk or obscene words. The feet must refrain from going to sinful places. In such a way, every part of the body observes the fast.

Therefore, fasting is not merely physical, but is rather the total commitment of the person’s body and soul to the spirit of the fast.

However, Ramadan is not a monastic practice but there is a rich communal aspect that is unique to fasting in Islam.

Ramadan is known to be the month of generosity.

We are told that the Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him, was the most generous of the people and he was even more generous during the month of Ramadan when Gabriel visited him.

The next few weeks will be a time of generosity – as Muslims give charity and of their resources and time and open up their homes and mosques to share the Iftar meals.

The time of breaking the fast is a special time and is time for sharing a communal meal.

The time of breaking the fast is special because the Prophet, peace be on him, said, “There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord.”

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever feeds a fasting person will have a reward like that of the fasting person, without any reduction in his reward.”

As a result of these teachings, Muslims have a busy social life in Ramadan – family gatherings, community Iftar programs – this is quite counter-intuitive to what most people would think when fasting is mentioned.

The communal aspect of Ramadan – of people coming together to share the Iftar fast breaking meal and attending the mosque for the special night prayers – strengthens the bonds of fellowship in the community.

There is a Turkish proverb that says, “A cup of coffee commits one to forty years of friendship.”

Muslim religious leader, Fethullah Gulen advises that during Ramadan, Iftar dinner invitations be sent to neighbors and fellow citizens so that, “the sentimental value of a dinner invitation will similarly continue no less than forty years, Insha’Allah.”[7]

In conclusion, Ramadan Mubarak/Kareem – Ramadan Greetings.

May this Ramadan bring us greater spiritual awareness, stronger fellowship and friendships that will endure for forty years.

I leave you in peace and with the mercy and blessings of God.

References:
[1] http://www.fountainmagazine.com/Issue/detail/The-Month-Overflowing-With-Mercy

[2] http://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Art-Fasting-Preparing-Practice-ebook/dp/B001PGVNY0/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1403578716&sr=1-3

[3] http://blogs.vancouversun.com/2009/08/20/ramadan-fasting-an-unfashionable-path/

[4] http://www.fountainmagazine.com/Issue/detail/The-Month-Overflowing-With-Mercy

[5] http://www.patheos.com/blogs/altmuslim/2008/09/ramadan_counterculture_and_soul/

[6] http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorialopinion/2011/08/11/salutin_the_ramadan_kids_go_to_the_cottage.html

[7] http://fgulen.com/en/fethullah-gulens-works/thought/the-broken-jug/36142-ramadan-and-softening-hearts

(July 15, 2014) – Today, prominent Canadians stood alongside Canadian Sarah Attia in a press conference at Parliament Hill  and presented an open letter to Prime Minister Stephen Harper about the situation of Khaled Al-Qazzaz.

RochTasse, Alex Neve, and Monia Mazigh, signatories of the letter, each shared aspects of the letter and all urged Prime Minister Harper to intervene and end the ordeal that Khaled, Sarah and their four children have lived through for the last 11 months.

“Thank you to the many Canadian lawyers, academics, authors, and activist [signatories] for your support and for standing alongside my family to call for an end to this injustice” said Sarah Attia. The names of the 129 leading Canadians and 6 organizations who signed the letter can be found on the campaign web page.

“Make no mistake; silence on the part of the Canadian government is not neutral. Canada’s failure to intervene at a political level risks sending a message that Canada is essentially unconcerned” says Alex Neve, Secretary General of Amnesty International Canada.

Khaled’s permanent resident status “may mean that it’s more difficult for Canada to gain access, it should not at all dictate what action Canada takes on the case, how clearly and forcefully Canada raises it, how regularly senior levels from the foreign minister, from the prime minister himself,” said Alex Neve.

In the open-letter signatories including Canadian academics, lawyers, professionals, authors, artists, celebrities, writers, thinkers, activists and organizations have collectively asserted that “we believe that Canada cannot be silent any longer.We are now calling upon you, Prime Minister, to take prompt and meaningful action.”

Dr. Mazigh, the wife of Maher Arar, a Canadian who was previously detained abroad, commented on Khaled’s 380-day long detention:. “Khaled Al-Qazzaz has been in solitary confinement for more than a year. Solitary confinement is the worst kind of psychological torture. My husband went through this ordeal and today he still bears the consequences. When the Canadian government of the time spoke with one strong voice to the Syrian voice my husband was released shortly after,” said Dr. Mazigh.

(July 27, 2014) – Canadian Muslims will celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, the feast that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan on Monday July 28, 2014.

From Vancouver to St. John’s, the country’s Muslims will celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr tomorrow.

The national organizations, ISNA Canada, ICNA Canada and MAC (Muslim Association of Canada) are following the decision of the Fiqh Council of North America which had previously declared Eid-ul-Fitr as being July, 28.

Muslims following the position that the actual local sighting of the new crescent signals the beginning of the month have also declared Eid to be on Monday.

The Hilal Committee of Metropolitan Toronto and vicinity has confirmed late this evening that their member organizations will celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr on Monday: “There have been confirmed sightings of the new crescent in the parameters of the Hilal Committee on the eve of Sunday July 27th, 2014 (29th Ramadan 1435), therefore the Hilal Committee of the GTA officially declares the completion of the blessed month of Ramadan. The 1st of Shawwal (Eidul Fitr) will be on Monday July 28, 2014.”

(August 2, 2014) – MuslimFest, the biggest Muslim festival in North America, attracted large crowds to Mississauga’s Celebration Square on its opening day, Saturday.

Featuring local and international artists, concerts, stand-up comedy shows, workshops, films and documentaries, the festival that celebrates the vibrant Canadian Muslim culture will run until Sunday evening.

“As we’re moving into 11^th year, we are promoting a lot more local artists,” said Sarfaraz Khan, MuslimFest’s Event Director. “They are our main focus.”

“We are also trying to diversify the festival,” added Khan. “We have an international food bazaar to show a range of cuisines.”

Performers during the event include Nader Khan, Boonaa Mohammad, Jawad Mecka, Rukhsana Khan, Karim Rassas, Omar Uddin, Hina Mirza, Shelina Merani, Preacher Moss, Qari Youssef Edghouch, Mustaqeem, Moez Shehab, Waseem Moe’Money and many more.

Popular Pakistani singer, Junaid Jamshed, will also be performing.

A multicultural bazaar and an outdoor children’s carnival and ‘fun-village’ are also featured during the festival.

A documentary film about Malala Yousafzai, the teenage Pakistani girl, education activist, and youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize nominee who survived an assassination attempt in her native Swat Valley, will be screened at the festival.

Attendees were also treated to a showing of an inspiring film about Canada’s first-ever mosque in the Polar region on Friday evening.

The Arctic Mosque is the story of Canada’s first-ever Polar region mosque, a prefabricated masjid that has made its way across the trials and beauty of the Canadian landscape in a celebrated and unprecedented 4,000-kilometre journey by road and river from Winnipeg to the small arctic town of Inuvik.

Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Mississauga is Canada’s 6th largest city and is part of the Greater Toronto Area that has a population of over 6 million people.

Over 25,000 participants are expected to attend the two-day festival, which has drawn praise from politicians and civic leaders across the region for showcasing the province’s diversity and promoting understanding among citizens.

Launched in 2004, MuslimFest is a joint initiative of DawaNet, Young Muslims Canada, and Sound Vision.

It aims to connect with the broader community through the language of art, humor, and meaningful entertainment.

In its first year in 2004, about 4,000 people attended the one-day festival. It has since been expanded to two days and moved to the city’s public outdoor square, Celebration Square, where it attracts more than 25,000 visitors each year.

The festival was chosen by Festival and Events Ontario (FEO) as one of the top 100 festivals in the province in 2013.

Muslims are the fastest growing religious community in Canada, according to the country’s statistical agency, Statistics Canada.

Canada’s Muslim population increased by 82 percent over the past decade – from about 579,000 in 2001 to more than 1 million in 2011. Muslims represent 3.2 percent of Canada’s total population.

A recent survey has showed the overwhelming majority of Muslims are proud to be Canadian.

For more pictures please check out our Facebook Page : https://www.facebook.com/Iqradotca

By Tariq Ramadan

(August 3, 2014) – I have received numerous messages with the same question: “Is it Islamic to demonstrate?” I thought such a question was outdated but it does not seem to be the case, as some people claim to be scholars and confuse minds.

Some are asking for verses and prophetic traditions (ahadith) that would allow demonstrations. Actually the real proof lies with those who forbid it. The first principle in Islam, in social affairs, is permission and it is for those who prohibit protests to provide us with a verse or a clear tradition (hadith) banning demonstrations. It does simply not exist!

Some “scholars of power”, from Saudi Arabia to Egypt (and indeed historically under all despots), produce fatwas, with questionable interpretations and biased positioning, stating that the leaders (whoever they are) must be obeyed and therefore demonstrations are prohibited. Serving the despotic powers and States, installed and paid by them, these “scholars” produce legal opinions tailored for power. These are not Islamic fatwas by scholars, but political fatwas by courtiers.

What the Prophet (PBUH) said is pretty clear: “The best jihad is a word of truth before a tyrant, a despot.” This is exactly what those protesting in the streets are doing… they are speaking a word of truth where they live, where they are able to do so. It is a noble action, sometimes very brave because of the risks involved, and it is an action that is sometimes more a duty than a right.

One more point. We shall remember Moses and Aaron (PSE) before Pharaoh: “Tell him gentle words, perhaps he will remember or he will be moved, shaken.” There is a way of speaking : with firmness and gentleness, with courage and without violence. Gentleness and non-violence are indeed true courage: no insults, no vandalism, no racism. Dignified and powerful speech by women and men respecting themselves and their cause. As for those who vandalize or shout racist slogans, they express more their personal frustrations than they defend a cause. Or they are manipulated, or they are infiltrators trying to ruin the cause.

We should not be naive when organizing events: it is imperative to give every effort to be both heard and never instrumentalized or exploited. This is a requirement and a responsibility, but we must never be silent. In all circumstances, we need to remain wise and courageous. Simply put, … wise, and courageous.

[Source: TariqRamadan.com]

(August 6, 2014) – Ontario says that it do what it can to help children seriously wounded in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“It is with deep sadness that I’ve watched recent news reports of children impacted by the conflict in the Middle East,” said Eric Hoskins, Ontario’s Minister of Health and Long-Term Care in a statement issued today. “My heart goes out to all those who are suffering on both sides of the conflict. I continue to hope for a peaceful solution.”

“As someone who has treated patients in conflict zones, I have a deep understanding of the devastating impact war can have on children,” said Minister Hoskins, a medical doctor who helped found the humanitarian relief organization, War Child Canada, before entering politics. “As Ontarians, we are fortunate to have world-class facilities that can provide high quality care to children in need.”

The minister says the province will work with its hospitals and the federal government to provide help.

“I believe that we have a moral responsibility to, when asked, step up to provide what assistance we can,” he added.

The impetus to bring injured children to Canada began last week when Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish, a doctor and author who lost three daughters in the 2009 Gaza conflict, pleaded in a newspaper article with the Canadians to bring the wounded here for treatment.

“I am writing today to appeal to you, to all Canadians, to invite 100 children from Gaza, the place where I saw three daughters and a niece die because of violence, to be treated here in Ontario,” wrote Dr. Abuelaish. “Let’s take these young Gazans, innocent as my own children, out of harm’s way.”

Dr. Abuelaish, currently an assistant professor at the University of Toronto, is a Palestinian doctor who was born and raised in the Jabalia refugee camp in the Gaza Strip. In 2010, he published an autobiography, “I Shall Not Hate: A Gaza Doctor’s Journey.”

“There are many severely wounded children in Gaza and the hospitals and health-care personnel there are woefully ill-equipped to treat them all,” said Dr. Abuelaish. “I would like to see our world-class Toronto hospitals offer to take in 100 of the most seriously wounded. “

“This would be a purely humanitarian effort, a way to demonstrate the Canadian values of peacemaking, diversity, tolerance and outreach to those in need, and to set an example to other cities, provinces and countries,” he noted.

Since the appeal by Dr. Abuelaish was published there has been a groundswell of support by Canadians.

“We received a formal request from Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish to make the necessary resources available to allow our hospitals to support kids who need medical attention due the conflict,” said Ontario’s Health Minister, Eric Hoskins.  “We have engaged with our partners in the health system and are pleased to do what we can to help meet the needs of any child, whether Palestinian or Israeli.”

An online petition urging the provincial and federal governments and hospitals to help Dr. Abuelaish in his efforts has collected thousands of supporters including federal Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau and NDP Leader Tom Mulcair and the Ontario Federation of Labour.

A number of Ontario hospitals, including Toronto’s world-class Hospital for Sick Children, have also offered to treat severely wounded children.

“Consistent with our vision of healthier children, a better world, SickKids has a long and proud history of providing highly specialized care to eligible children from around the globe,” said Dr. Michael Apkon, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hospital for Sick Children. “We believe every child deserves access to high quality healthcare, including those who are injured as a result of conflict.”

Meanwhile, a spokesman for Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister, John Baird, said the government was consulting with its partners to see how best to provide assistance to victims of the conflict.

(August 17, 2014) – The London Muslim Mosque celebrated its 50^th anniversary this weekend.

“It’s a place where people come to relax, to identify, to establish new friendships, to outreach to the neighborhoods around the mosque and meet new friends,” Dr. Munir El-Kassem, told AM980 Radio station on Friday, August 15.

To mark the historical bi-centennial milestone, the community organized a weekend filled with inspirational and informative talks, dinners and entertainment.

The London Muslim Mosque is one of the earliest mosques in Ontario.

The first pioneers arrived in London in the late 1800’s and as the number of Muslim families increased by the mid 1900’s, a need for a communal space became necessary.

It started after 12 Lebanese immigrant families settled in London and wanted a communal place of worship.

Buying a house in Oxford Street, the early pioneers demolished it to make place for their new mosque.

The London Muslim Mosque’s construction was completed in 1964 and has, since then, been serving a growing and flourishing community.

“The mosque is certainly a converging point for people,” said Dr. El-Kassem.

“When Muslims arrive in the city, it’s the first place they ask about. They go for worship, and more than that, they go to get assistance to settle and to socialize with people who have been in the city before them.”

Over the past fifty years, the mosque expanded to add an Islamic school on the property in 1996, and a multi-million dollar renovation in 2010.

Now the London Muslim Mosque is one of three in the city that serves a Muslim population of around 30,000 people.

“We are seeing that the community continues to increase not by immigration only, but there are many people who are now second and third generation Muslims who are born and raised in Canada,” said Dr. El-Kassem.

“I am safe to say that now maybe 65% to 70% of the community was born and raised in London, Ontario.”

Speakers over the weekend included Dr. Ingrid Mattson, Imam Siraj Wahhaj, Imam And Al Fattah Twakkal, Imam Jamal Taleb, Dr. Munir El-Kassem, Khadija Haffajee, Shaikh Alaa ElSayed, Dr. Abdullah Hakim Quick, Imam Mohammed Nasir, and Nazem Kadri. Entertainment was provided by Dawud Wharnsby and Boonaa Mohammed.

“The (mosque) legacy is that it creates a home base for Muslims in London, where they are able to be themselves and also grow and become contributing members of the society,” law student Leenat Jilani told London Free Press.

(August 20, 2014) – The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto will open its doors to the public on September 18^th, 2014.

The museum is dedicated to presenting an overview of the artistic, intellectual, and scientific contributions that Muslim civilizations have made to world heritage.

The Museum’s Permanent Collection of over 1,000 objects includes masterpieces that reflect a broad range of artistic styles and materials.

These portraits, textiles, miniatures, manuscripts, ceramics, tiles, medical texts, books and musical instruments represent more than ten centuries of human history and geographic area stretching from the  Iberian  Peninsula to  China.

Designed by architect Fumihiko Maki, the Museum shares a 6.8 hectare (17 acre) site with Toronto’s Ismaili Centre, which was designed by architect Charles Correa.

The surrounding landscaped park, designed by landscape architect, Vladimir Djurovic, will provide an exciting new green space for the city of Toronto.

“One of the lessons we have learned in recent years is that the world of Islam and the Western-world need to work together much more effectively at building mutual understanding especially as these cultures interact and intermingle more actively,” said His Highness the Aga Khan. “We hope that this museum will contribute to a better understanding of the peoples of Islam in all of their religious, ethnic, linguistic, and social diversity.”

From their earliest origins, Muslim civilizations have been characterized by a remarkable diversity of geographies, languages, and cultures.

“The Aga Khan Museum has an international outlook,” noted Henry Kim, Director of the Museum. “Home to a collection of astonishingly beautiful works of art, it will showcase the artistic creativity and achievements of Muslim civilizations from Spain to China. I think local and international visitors will be greatly surprised when they discover just how much the arts of Muslim civilizations are a part of our shared global cultural  heritage.”

Since 2007, over 1 million people have experienced the splendour of the Aga Khan Museum Collection.

The Musée du Louvre in Paris, the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, the Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon, the Martin-Gropius-Bau in Berlin, the Sakip Sabancı Museum in Istanbul, the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur and the Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore have all hosted temporary exhibitions of major works of art from the Aga Khan Museum Collection.

For  more  information  about  the  Aga  Khan  Museum
please  visit  www.agakhanmuseum.org

(August 26, 2014) – Former American President, Jimmy Carter, will be featured as a keynote speaker at the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) national convention to be held in Detroit this weekend.

Carter will address the convention on the historic need for religious communities to mobilize against discrimination and violence that is directed toward girls and women throughout the world which is the subject of his latest book, A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power.

ISNA, the largest Muslim group in America, will hold its 51st annual convention at Detroit’s Cobo Center from Friday, August 29 through Monday, Sept. 1. The theme of the convention is “GENERATIONS RISE: Elevating Muslim American Culture.”

“This year’s convention is in Detroit and we’ve been blessed to have an extraordinary group of volunteers in Detroit and from the Michigan area,” said Hazem Bata, ISNA’s Executive Director, in a pre-convention message. “This year’s convention will have something for everyone. I think you are really going to enjoy it.”

Jimmy Carter, the former American President, has visited 145 countries with his wife, Rosalynn, building an interfaith coalition to alleviate unconscionable human suffering.

Muslim leaders at the convention will be invited to sign a Declaration for Peaceful Communities and join President Carter’s movement for greater human rights, according to ISNA.

The convention’s opening session on Friday will be addressed by Michigan Governor, Rick Snyder; Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, the national leader of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Adam Shakoor, Former Chief Judge of the 36th District Court and Deputy Mayor of Detroit; and State Rep. Rashida Talib.

The convention is packed with plenary sessions and includes workshops on a variety of topics.

An Islamic Film Festival, an Art and Photography Exhibit, a National Qira’at Competition, a Matrimonial Banquet, Meet the Author sessions and Health Fair will be held, and there will be a bazaar and trade show with more than 400 vendors.

Parallel conferences will also be held by the ISNA affiliated organizations – the Islamic Medical Association of North America, Muslim Students Association and Muslim Youth of North America.

This year, ISNA will be providing convention attendees an opportunity to participate in Muslim-led projects supporting affordable housing and values-based community building.

In partnership with Dream of Detroit and Project HUG, attendees can participate in a 3-hour off-site service initiative that includes a brief “History of Islam in Detroit” visit to a Detroit Westside community, a tour of the HUDA clinic, as well as having the opportunity to directly contribute towards a locally driven Muslim-led neighborhood renewal initiative by working on urban gardening or housing restoration projects.

Another first-time feature of the convention will be the ISNA Detroit 2014 5K Run/Walk that will offer a scenic riverside tour and provide attendees from across the country a view of the best of Detroit.

The event will commemorate ISNA’s commitment to incorporating healthy living and family fun into the culture of the Muslim American fabric.

ISNA is a partner in American First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move Campaign. and a champion of health and wellness for the American Muslim community.

The organization is also planning to hold a town hall meeting during the convention, according to ISNA’s Executive Director, Hazem Bata.

“I am happy to announce that at this year’s convention we’ll be having a town hall style meeting,” said Bata. “At this meeting we’ll be having an open mic and participants will be having a chance to speak directly to me and other ISNA leadership.”

“Give us your feedback, your insights, your concerns and, yes, your constructive criticisms,” he added. “ISNA is your organization – we are here to serve you and the community, so come tell us how best we can serve you.”

(September 1, 2014) – Former US President Jimmy Carter was warmly welcomed by convention delegates on Saturday at the Islamic Society of North America’s annual convention in Detroit.

“I am delighted to be here with my fellow Americans,” Carter told the full house at the Cobo Convention Center. “I have been looking forward to this opportunity for a long time.”

The former president delivered the keynote address at the convention on the historic need for religious communities to mobilize against discrimination and violence that is directed toward girls and women throughout the world.

“Every year the Carter Center has sponsored a conference on human rights,” he said. “It addresses the horrendous abuse of women and girls around the world. We want to turn this around.”

The 89-year former American president spoke at length about preventing violence against women and girls.

“My hope is all Christians, all Muslims, all people of other faiths, even those who don’t have one, will join in this crusade to end the plight of our wives, our sisters, our daughters.”

A representative group of prominent Muslim leaders at the convention signed a Declaration for Peaceful Communities to join President Carter’s movement for greater human rights.

“Men and women are created equally from one soul,” Carter said quoting from the Qur’an.

“If you were taught by your parents or you believe you’re superior to your wife just because you’re a man, Allah says your wrong,” he advised the audience. “All males … treat your wife as you would like to be treated,”

President Jimmy Carter, Jr. served as the 39^th President of the as the 39thPresident of the United States from 1977 to 1981 and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

“At the Carter Center we are deeply committed to peace,” said the ex-President. “We believe that peace can come to the Middle East.”

“Choose peaceful means to resolve conflicts,” he added. “There will be no peace in Middle East without justice and human rights for Palestinians.”

“When my prayers are answered and we have peace in that Holy Land then the Israelis and all their neighbors will be blessed to live in peace and prosperity.”

Earlier on Saturday at the ISNA Community Service Luncheon, President Carter outlined the work of the Carter Foundation and told Americans Muslims to bring peace and justice to all those around them.

“We are all Americans in a system that allows basic human rights – peace, justice and the ability to treat each other as equals,” he told the audience. “I hope all of you will use the principles of Allah to bring peace and justice to all.”

The Annual ISNA Convention was held at Detroit’s Cobo Center from Friday, August 29 to Monday, Sept. 1. The theme of the convention was “GENERATIONS RISE: Elevating Muslim American Culture.”

The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), based in Plainfield, Indiana, is the largest Muslim organization in North America.

(September 5, 2014) – Tayyibah Taylor, editor-in-chief of Azizah Magazine, the popular women’s journal, and one of America’s most well-known Muslim personalities, has passed away, leaving a big void in Muslim media activism.

“We regret to announce the passing of Tayyibah Taylor, the founder, publisher, and editor-in-chief of Azizah Magazine,” wrote Azizah Magazine publishers in a release late on Thursday night, September 4.

“Please join the Azizah Magazine family in praying for her soul, forgiveness of her sins and shortcomings, and her entrance to paradise.”

Taylor is survived by five children and several grandchildren.

She has been named one of the 500 Most Influential Muslims in the world by the Middle Eastern think tank, The Royal Islamic Strategic Studies.

Through Azizah Magazine, Taylor realized her vision of providing a vehicle for the voice of Muslim American women.

The magazine portrays Muslim women’s perspectives and experiences, and shatters commonly held stereotypes.

“The most notable part of her life’s work is founding the institution of Azizah Magazine,” according to the Azizah Magazine media release.

“She leaves behind not just a publication that is a vehicle for Muslim women’s voices or catalyst for empowerment, but a legacy of pure intentions and faith in Allah that have become the core values of the Azizah Family.”

Muslim Pioneer

Born on the island of Trinidad in the Caribbean, Taylor grew up in Toronto, Canada and studied biology and philosophy at the University of Toronto.

“She was a pioneer woman who spoke and wrote about Islam and spirituality, often when the only prominent voices in the American Muslim community were of men,” according to the publishers of Azizah Magazine.

“Among the most well-traveled Muslim women of the world, Taylor logged millions of miles in visits to countries on six continents, advocating for peace, constructive interfaith relations, and Muslim women’s empowerment.”

She lived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for several years and attended classes at King Abdul-Aziz University for Arabic and Islamic Studies.

Taylor blended her passion for spirituality, women’s issues and communication to further the causes of Muslim women.

She appeared on CNN and other news media to comment on current affairs and she visited 37 countries, spanning six continents.

She presented lectures on Islam and Muslim women at national and international conferences across the world.

“Before her illness, Taylor had taken steps to ensure the longevity of Azizah Magazine” the publishers assured readers of the magazine,” publishers of Azizah Magazine added.

“She mentored and prepared Azizah team members to take on leadership roles and trained staff at the task of producing the Magazine.”

In a statement today, Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) President, Azhar Azeez said:

“Sister Tayyibah was a sincere and respected community leader whose work and example gave inspiration and empowerment for Muslim women all over North America. I had worked with her very closely on the convention program committee in the past few years. She always brought to the table very scholarly perspectives. She would actively participate in long discussions and always debated matters very respectfully and with a smile. She will be greatly missed by all of us. It is a huge loss to our community.”

An Interfaith symposium and concert will be held on Sunday, September 21 at Toronto’s Metropolitan United Church to mark the International Day of Peace.

The event is sponsored by the Metropolitan United Church, the Holy Blossom Temple, the Intercultural Dialogue Institute and the Peace and Social Justice Foundation.

“This event aims to raise awareness around building bridges among communities and nurturing the culture of non-violence, intercultural/interfaith cooperation, and humanitarian action as we break bread together over a special medieval menu,” noted the organizers in a press release.

Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The United Nations General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

The symposium will consist of two panel sessions titled, “Sources of Religious Conflict in the Middle Ages” and “Discourse on Peace in the Middle Ages: Moses Maimonides, Thomas Aquinas & Jalaladdin Rumi.”

Archbishop Colin R. Johnson of the Anglican Church of Canada will be the guest speaker at the supper that will feature a special medieval meal.

The final session will be concert that will celebrate peace with performances by the members of the Lachan Choir conducted by Cantor Beny Maissner; the Metropolitan United Church Choir conducted by Director and Organist Dr. Patricia Wright; and the Zikr and Whirling (Sema) ceremonies performed by the Jerrahi Sufi Assembly of the Jerrahi Sufi Order of Canada.

“Each year, on this day, the United Nations calls for a global ceasefire.  We ask combatants to put down their arms so all can breathe the air of peace. Armed conflict causes untold grief to families, communities and entire countries. Too many are suffering today at the brutal hands of warmongers and terrorists. Let us stand with them in solidarity,” said UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon in his message marking the International Day of Peace.

For further information about the event and to register, visit: www.embracepeace.ca

The Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW) has announced the winners of the Women Who Inspire awards and scholarships for 2014.

As a source of inspiration, CCMW honours Canadian Muslim women who have made a difference in the lives of others and have demonstrated a commitment to women’s equality.

The winners of this year’s awards are:

• Ambreen Akbar: Lifelong VAW activist and aspiring social work student at Ryerson University.
• Farah Mohamed: President and CEO of G(irls) 20.
• Fatema Dada: Crown Counsel with the Ministry of the Attorney General (Ontario).
• Hodan Ali: Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Refugee Hamilton Centre for Newcomer Health.
• Sureya Ibrahim: Community Engagement Worker, Regent Park Centre for Community Learning and Development.

Since 2008, CCMW has raised money to support promising Canadian Muslim women’s studies through the Lila Fahlman Scholarship, which is named after the late Dr. Lila Fahlam, renowned educator and founder of CCMW.

This year’s scholarship winners are:

• Anjum Sultana: Pursuing her Masters of Public Health in Social and Behavioural Sciences (Health Promotion) and Global Health at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto.
• Eman Ali: Entering the Social Justice and Peace program at King’s University College.
• Marzieh Ghiasi: Completing her Masters of Science in Epidemiology at McGill University.
• Nehal El-Hadi: Currently completing a PhD in Planning at University of Toronto.
• Sehrish Malik: Currently a first year PhD candidate in Humanities at York University.

CCMW will be holding a fundraiser on Sunday, September 28, 2014. The theme of the event is Equality in Employment: Are We There Yet?

The keynote speaker at the fundraiser is Judy Rebick, women’s rights activist and founder of Rabble.ca.

There will also be a panel on Muslim women’s employment outcomes and lessons learnt from 30 years of employment equity. The panelists will include Daood Hamdani and Karen Mock. Key Ballah will be presenting some of her poems related to our theme.

Tickets can be purchased at www.wwi2014.eventbrite.com.

Fethullah Gulen, a world renowned scholar, preacher and social advocate recently published his message of condemnation in the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, LA Times and Chicago Tribune.
———-

As a practicing Muslim deeply influenced by tenets of my faith, I strongly condemn the brutal atrocities of the ISIS terrorist group. Their actions are a disgrace to the faith they proclaim and are crimes against humanity. Religion provides a foundation upon which to establish peace, human rights, freedoms and the rule of law. Any interpretations to the contrary, including the abuse of religion to fuel conflicts, are simply wrong and deceitful.

ISIS is not the first group to use religious rhetoric to mask its cruelty-Al Qaeda did so 13 years ago and Boko Haram more recently. What they all have in common is a totalitarian mentality that denies human beings their dignity.

Any form of violence against innocent civilians or prosecution of minorities contradicts the principles of the Qur’an and the traditions of our Prophet (upon whom be peace and blessings). ISIS members are either completely ignorant about the faith they proclaim or their actions are designed to serve individual interests or those of their political masters. Regardless, their actions represent those of a terrorist group and, as such, they should be brought to justice and compelled to answer for their horrific crimes.

I send my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased in Iraq and Syria, and to the families of James Foley, Steven Sotloff, and David Haines. May God give them strength, patience and perseverance, and alleviate their suffering. I also pray for the immediate and safe release of hostages and ask God, the Merciful, to lead us all toward mutual respect and peace. I invite everyone around the world to join me in these prayers.

Fethullah Gulen
Islamic scholar, preacher and social advocate

(September 22, 2014) – The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) is calling the latest ISIS threat un-Islamic and deeply repulsive.

“Any invitation to commit acts of terrorism, including the statement most recently attributed to ISIS, is both wholly un-Islamic and deeply repulsive to Canadian Muslims, as it is to all of Canada,” NCCM said in a statement issued today. “It is both a civic duty, as well as an Islamic obligation, to contact the authorities if one has any information about plans to hurt or harm anyone.”

In the 42-minute audio recording released yesterday, ISIS spokesman Abu Mohammed al-Adnani urged ISIS supporters to kill Canadians, Americans, Australians, French and other Europeans, or any country’s citizens taking part in the U.S.-led coalition to fight the extremist group.

“The NCCM once again joins Muslims across Canada and around the world in reaffirming its categorical condemnation of violent extremism and terrorism of any kind. Nothing can justify such actions,” according to NCCM.

“We emphasize the sacredness of life and reject any express statement or tacit insinuation that anyone should harm innocent people.  Our message to anyone who espouses, endorses, or in any way supports this ideology of violence, is that your actions have nothing to do with our faith.”

[Image: #NotInMyName Young British Muslims stand up to ISIS in online campaign]