The following open letter has been issued by Muslim religious leaders to Ibrahim Awwad Al-Badri, alias ‘Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi’,  and to the fighters and followers of the self-declared ‘Islamic State.’

Executive Summary

1- It is forbidden in Islam to issue fatwas without all the necessary learning requirements. Even
then fatwas must follow Islamic legal theory as defined in the Classical texts. It is also
forbidden to cite a portion of a verse from the Qur’an—or part of a verse—to derive a ruling
without looking at everything that the Qur’an and Hadith teach related to that matter. In other
words, there are strict subjective and objective prerequisites for fatwas, and one cannot ‘cherry-
pick’ Qur’anic verses for legal arguments without considering the entire Qur’an and Hadith.
2- It is forbidden in Islam to issue legal rulings about anything without mastery of the Arabic
language.
3- It is forbidden in Islam to oversimplify Shari’ah matters and ignore established Islamic
sciences.
4- It is permissible in Islam [for scholars] to differ on any matter, except those fundamentals of
religion that all Muslims must know.
5- It is forbidden in Islam to ignore the reality of contemporary times when deriving legal rulings.
6- It is forbidden in Islam to kill the innocent.
7- It is forbidden in Islam to kill emissaries, ambassadors, and diplomats; hence it is forbidden to
kill journalists and aid workers.
8- Jihad in Islam is defensive war. It is not permissible without the right cause, the right purpose
and without the right rules of conduct.
9- It is forbidden in Islam to declare people non-Muslim unless he (or she) openly declares
disbelief.
10- It is forbidden in Islam to harm or mistreat—in any way—Christians or any ‘People of the
Scripture’.
11- It is obligatory to consider Yazidis as People of the Scripture.
12- The re-introduction of slavery is forbidden in Islam. It was abolished by universal consensus.
13- It is forbidden in Islam to force people to convert.
14- It is forbidden in Islam to deny women their rights.
15- It is forbidden in Islam to deny children their rights.
16- It is forbidden in Islam to enact legal punishments (hudud) without following the correct
procedures that ensure justice and mercy.
17- It is forbidden in Islam to torture people.
18- It is forbidden in Islam to disfigure the dead.
19- It is forbidden in Islam to attribute evil acts to God ..
20- It is forbidden in Islam to destroy the graves and shrines of Prophets and Companions.
21- Armed insurrection is forbidden in Islam for any reason other than clear disbelief by the ruler
and not allowing people to pray.
22- It is forbidden in Islam to declare a caliphate without consensus from all Muslims.
23- Loyalty to one’s nation is permissible in Islam.
24- After the death of the Prophet ., Islam does not require anyone to emigrate anywhere.

READ ENTIRE TEXT HERE

By Hind Al-Abadleh

Reading the news headlines¹ on September 10, 2014 about the start of recovery of the ozone layer over Antarctica cheered my heart as someone who teaches about the chemistry of the ozone hole and the role that chloroflourocarbons (CFCs) played in speeding up the destruction of this ‘shield’ gas up in the stratosphere.

To place this news in the context of environmental history:

In 1974, it was scientifically established that CFCs –used in fridges, radiators, spray cans, and air conditions- are agents that can destroy stratospheric ozone, and it was 13 years after that the Montreal Protocol was established for a total global ban on the production of CFCs by the late 1990s.

This protocol is one of a kind international treaty by politicians, hosted by Canada, that sent the right message to the people of the Earth that governments care about the ozone layer.  It also sent the signal to the industry that manufactured the CFCs that you need to innovate and come up with chemicals that have useful applications to society, but would not cause environmental degradation.  In effect, the treaty revoked the social and political licenses given to industrial sectors that made the CFCs.

We’re in 2014 now, 40 years after the science was established, and 27 years after the Montreal protocol was signed.  It is in September 2014 that reports of the first signs of recovery of the ozone layer are reported.  Why? Because CFCs have a very long lifetime in the atmosphere (140 years for CFC-12 known commercially as Freon 12 or R-12), even after stopping their emissions.  This is why we’re still experiencing ozone loss in Antarctica every winter and spring time in the Southern hemisphere.  While full recovery is projected to happen in 2050, the impacts from global climate change on ozone loss are still uncertain.

Take home messages:

• Nature has its own recovery time that is on the order of decades when humans acknowledge their negative disturbance of natural equilibrium and gather the political will and courage to act and stop further degradation of natural ecosystems.
• Governments take a relatively long time to formulate and enforce regulations on industrial emissions.  Why?  Because they’d rather (1) wait for a significant body of scientific data to come through rather than following a precautionary principle of ‘better be safe than sorry’ when new man-made substances are manufactured and dumped irresponsibly, and (2) have unsatisfied and frustrated citizens who demand action on environmental issues that affect people on the ground.

How could we use the above success story to understand the most pressing environmental issue of our time, global climate change?  Again, a bit of environmental history would be useful:

In 1957, increasing CO2 buildup was reported as ‘surprising’ by scientists at the Scripps Oceanographic Institute working on international geophysical year projects.

In 1979, the first major international climate science conference was held in Geneva, which led to the creation of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)  in 1988.  In 2013, the IPCC started releasing reports on their fifth assessment of the status of the climate.  They announced that the planet has warmed about 0.8 deg C since the beginning of the 20^th century, and that CO2 buildup is happening at a faster rate than previously projected.²

There is no debate among scientists that humans are the main driving force behind a changing climate. We are currently experiencing the disruption and impacts³: faster rates of melting ice caps, ocean acidification, depletion of fresh water resources, increased severity of storms, floods and droughts with impacts on crop production, in addition to rising surface and atmospheric temperatures.

One could argue that the success story of saving the ozone layer through the Montreal Protocol is hard to replicate for solving global climate change because the industries and consumer products that were dependent on CFCs represent a much smaller sector than the gigantic fossil fuel industry that underlies our current way of life in the 21^st century.

This very statement could either depress us to no action, or motivate us to rethink our current value system to innovate our way out of a fossil fuel era.  After all, humanity did not transition from the stone age because of lack of stones!  Similarly, we have the potential to transition from a fossil fuel-dependent civilization without burning every drop of oil in the ground.  It was refreshing to read about a new fossil fuel divestment group in Canada, called “Fossil Free Faith-Canada’s Interfaith Divestment Network”⁴ that “aims to be a source of support and resources for Canadian faith communities and their members who are committed to or considering climate action, especially around fossil fuel divestment and clean energy reinvestment.

We’re now in 2014 (57 years after reporting CO2 buildup).  Governments of the world have met many times, 4 since 2007, in Bali, Copenhagen, Cancun and Qatar, and left with no concrete steps on how to move forward.

Determined not to lose hope and motivated to work to send a loud message to politicians, people from all walks of life will be marching on September 21 during the 2014 UN Climate Summit meetings taking place in New York City.  The ‘People’s Climate March’⁵ is being planned by hundreds of coordinated efforts among hundreds of social and environmental non-governmental and non-profit organizations.

Marches around the world will also take place outside the U.S. during September as well.  The demands are clear⁵: “a world with an economy that works for people and the planet; a world safe from the ravages of climate change; a world with good jobs, clean air and water, and healthy communities.”  The film, Distruption,⁶ features leading scientists, historians, activists and faith-based leaders and documents the planning and calls to join the largest people’s march for the climate in the history of human beings.

These critical times in history challenge us to rethink who we are, where we’re going, and what ideals and ethical principles we struggle to live up to.  It is incumbent that we stand on the right side of history as concerned people who are empowered by scientific knowledge and rich inherited and collective human wisdom.

References:

1 http://www.nasa.gov/content/goddard/international-action-against-ozone-depleting-substances-yields-significant-gains/index.html

2 https://www.wmo.int/pages/mediacentre/press_releases/pr_1002_en.html

3 ‘What We Know’ initiative on Climate Change from AAAS:http://whatweknow.aaas.org/get-the-facts/

4 http://fossilfreefaith.ca

5 http://peoplesclimate.org

6 http://watchdisruption.com

 Hind Al-Abadleh is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, ON.  She could be reached via email: halabadleh@wlu.ca

(September 29, 2014) – The Islamic Social Services Association (ISSA) and the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) today announced the public launch of a 38-page handbook for Canadian Muslim communities about radicalization towards violent extremism.

The handbook, titled United Against Terrorism: A Collaborative Effort Towards a Secure, Inclusive, and Just Canada, answers questions about radicalization and provides Canadian Muslims with tools to confront misinformation and challenge discrimination. Many of the questions and answers emerged from conversation cafés held in Winnipeg at a symposium entitled “United Against Terrorism”.

“We heard and responded to a pressing need to understand and evaluate the nature, origin, causes, facilitators and impacts of violent extremist messages on Canadian Muslim youth,” explains ISSA President Shahina Siddiqui.

“Between the messages of extremists who twist religious principles to rationalize their hateful messages of violence, and the Islamophobes who apply the same cut-and-paste approach to foment hatred of Muslims, there exists a majority of Canadians of all faiths and backgrounds whose voices of reason, compassion, mutual respect, and tolerance are drowned out,” says Siddiqui.

“The best defense to violent extremist messages is to equip communities with sound knowledge, and to ensure that they are well-informed of their civic rights and responsibilities,” says NCCM Executive Director Ihsaan Gardee.

“This handbook offers Canadian Muslims detailed information about how to actively participate in all aspects of civic life and to respond to misinformation.  It also offers concrete steps for families and communities in responding to fears or concerns that a loved one has been swayed by extremist ideology, and strategies for dealing with unfair labels, stereotyping, and stigmatization,” says Gardee.

The handbook is divided into five sections:
1. General information about radicalization towards criminal violence;

2. Responsible citizenship: the Quranic and Prophetic response to extremist messages;

3. Understanding radicalization and the role of the RCMP in law enforcement and national security;

4. Active citizenship: understanding your rights and making a positive impact; and

5. Recommendations for law enforcement.

The handbook will be distributed to Muslim communities and groups across Canada. 

(September 30, 2014) – The RCMP issued a statement today saying that they could not support the handbook produced by two Canadian Muslim organizations titled, “United Against Terrorism.”

“After a final review of the handbook, the RCMP could not support the adversarial tone set by elements of the booklet and therefore directed RCMP Manitoba not to proceed with this initiative,” said the RCMP news release.

The Islamic Social Services Association (ISSA) and the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) yesterday announced the public launch of the 38-page handbook for Canadian Muslim communities about radicalization towards violent extremism.

The handbook, United Against Terrorism: A Collaborative Effort Towards a Secure, Inclusive, and Just Canada, answers questions about radicalization and provides Canadian Muslims with tools to confront misinformation and challenge discrimination.

“The RCMP contributed to Section 3 of the handbook entitled ‘Understanding Radicalization and the role of RCMP in law enforcement and national security’. We are not responsible for other material contained in this publication,” stated the news release.

The RCMP statement did not identify which aspects of the handbook were concerning and said all questions about the issue should be addressed to the authors, the National Council of Canadian Muslims and the Islamic Social Services Association.

NCCM Executive Director, Ihsaan Gardee, said in an earlier statement, “The best defense to violent extremist messages is to equip communities with sound knowledge, and to ensure that they are well-informed of their civic rights and responsibilities.”

“This handbook offers Canadian Muslims detailed information about how to actively participate in all aspects of civic life and to respond to misinformation.  It also offers concrete steps for families and communities in responding to fears or concerns that a loved one has been swayed by extremist ideology, and strategies for dealing with unfair labels, stereotyping, and stigmatization,” added Gardee.

(October 3, 2014) – Thousands of Muslims are expected to attend the largest `Eid Al-Adha prayers and Festival in Toronto on Saturday, October 4, at the Direct Energy Centre, in an impressive display of unity and compassion to the wider community.

“This `Eid celebration marks our 29th `Eid Al-Adha Anniversary,” said Ahmad Attia, Director of the MAC Eid Festival.

“The `Eid Festival will bring together over 15,000 Muslims from across the Greater Toronto Area to pray in unity and listen to the `Eid Sermon by Sheikh Mohammad Zahid.”

`Eid Al-Adha, or “Feast of Sacrifice”, is one of the two most important Islamic celebrations, together with `Eid Al-Fitr.

The Muslim Association of Canada is a national organization that provides religious and educational services throughout the country. The `Eid Festival will be a full day of activities for the entire family, including a children’s carnival.

“With an increasing attendance, this `Eid we have increased the size of the carnival to include additional rides and games,” said Ahmad Attia.

“Our show stage will entertain families and, among other presentations, there will be a very exciting exotic animal interactive show.”

“The bazaar will showcase vendors with diverse products and `Eid souvenirs for the family,” added Attia.

“And while parents wait for their children to go on the rides and enjoy face painting and henna, they can enjoy an international cuisine or a cup of coffee and `Eid desserts.”

Political, civic and Faith leaders will address the gathering.

“This `Eid, the Premier of Ontario, Kathleen Wynne, will be in attendance to offer her respects to the Muslim Community, a major community in Ontario’s social fabric and multiculturalism,” said Ahmad Attia.

Share & Care

Sharing their festivities with those in need, Canada’s Muslims plan a special udhiyah program to serve both Muslims and non-Muslims in Toronto.

“On a local level our `Eid Food Drive and our Udhiya Program will, InshaAllah, serve many Muslim and non-Muslim families in the Greater Toronto Area who are not as fortunate to have food or meat on their tables regularly,” said Attia.

The organizers will be encouraging attendees at the `Eid Festival to make a donation to assist the needy across the world.

“Since the situation has only worsened for Muslims across the world, we will be reminding our Canadian Muslim Community to make a donation to a relief organization,” said Ahmad Attia.

“Our sponsor, Human Concern International, will be onsite to collect for relief assistance for those suffering across the world.”

After the special prayers to mark `Eid Al-Adha, Muslims offer udhiyah, a ritual that reminds them of the great act of sacrifice Prophet Ibrahim and his son Isma`eel were willing to make for the sake of God.

A financially able Muslim sacrifices a sheep, or goat or shares with six others in sacrificing a camel or cow as an act of worship during the four-day `Eid Al-Adha.

The Udhiyah meat is divided in three equal parts, one each for one’s own family, friends and the poor.

It is permissible that someone in another country could perform the sacrifice on one’s behalf.

Muslims make up nearly two percent of Canada’s some 32.8 million people and Islam has become the number one non-Christian faith in the country.

A poll has showed that the overwhelming majority of Muslims are proud to be Canadian and are more integrated and better educated than the general population.

 [Photo credit: Yasin Dusoruth-  http://yasindusoruth.com/]

Dr. Zeki Saritoprak

(October 7, 2014) – Jesus is one of the most important prophets in the religion of Islam, U.S.-based author and professor Zeki Saritoprak told a gathering at Toronto’s Regis College on September 22.

“Jesus is one of the elite Prophets in Islam along with Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses and Muhammad,” said Dr. Zeki Saritoprak. “They are the stars of humanity.”

“Jesus in the Qur’an is described as one who brings peace to humanity,” he added.

Dr. Zeki Saritoprak is the author of the recently published book, ‘Islam’s Jesus.’

He is associate professor in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies and the Beddiüzaman Said Nursi Chair in Islamic Studies at John Carroll University. He is the author of numerous works on Islamic theology in English, Turkish, and Arabic.

Regis College and the Intercultural Dialogue Institute GTA organized the lecture and book signing with Dr. Saritoprak.

According to Saritoprak, few people realize that Jesus was a prominent messenger of God in Islam and that Muslims believe in the return of Jesus.

He noted that, even among Muslims, it is not well known that there are diverse interpretations of references to Jesus in the Qur’an and the Hadith.

“In Islam, no one can be worshipped except God,” Dr. Saritoprak told the well-attended event. “Jesus was one of greatest worshippers, Muhammad was one of the greatest worshippers, but they are not to be worshipped.”

‘Islam’s Jesus’ takes a bold, yet candid, look at the highly charged topic of Jesus’s place in Islam, exploring some of the religion’s least understood aspects.

Examining multiple intellectual traditions, Dr. Saritoprak makes clear the reality of pluralism in the history of Islamic religious scholarship.

Actively engaged in efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and harmony, Saritoprak thoughtfully argues that the shared belief in Jesus presents an excellent opportunity for understanding between Muslims and Christians.

(October 14, 2014) – One of Africa’s foremost intellectuals, Professor Ali Mazrui, died peacefully on October 12, 2014 of natural causes at age 81 at his home in Vestal, New York, surrounded by family.

Prof. Mazrui was an Albert Schweitzer Professor in the Humanities and the Director of the Institute of Global Cultural Studies at Binghamton University in Binghamton, New York.

Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta said Africa had been robbed of one of its greatest scholars.

Mr Mazrui had been “towering” academic whose “intellectual contributions played a major role in shaping African scholarship”, Kenyatta told BBC News.

Prof. Mazrui is well known for his writings on politics in Africa as well as Islamic studies.

He was born on February 24, 1933, in Mombasa, Kenya, to Swafia Suleiman Mazrui and Sheikh Al-Amin Mazrui, an eminent Muslim scholar and the Chief Qadi (Islamic judge) of Kenya.

Immersed in Swahili culture, Islamic law, and Western education, he grew up speaking or reading Swahili, Arabic and English.

He studied at schools in Mombasa, in Kenya. Mazrui obtained his B.A. with Distinction from Manchester University in Great Britain in 1960, his M.A. from Columbia University in New York in 1961, and his doctorate (DPhil) from Oxford University in 1966.

Prof. Mazrui’s prolific writings over the past half-century have shaped ideas about Africa and Islam among scholars and the general public, earning him both international acclaim and controversy.

He authored over forty books and hundreds of scholarly articles and book chapters.

His political analyses appeared frequently in news media around the world.

Prof. Mazrui is best known for the nine-part television series he wrote and narrated, The Africans: A Triple Heritage. A joint production of BBC and PBS, the series originally aired in numerous countries in 1986.

The series, and the book on which it is based, reveals and analyzes the complex ways in which African communities exhibit a blend of three cultures: indigenous, Muslim and Western.

[See full Family Obituary here].

By Mohammed Ayub Khan

The Government of Canada’s recent amendment to its Food and Drug Regulations, making it mandatory that any claims to a food product being halal be accompanied by the name of the certifying body or person, is a welcome first step.

The domestic halal market in the country is worth $1 billion annually and is growing exponentially with the increase in the Muslim population, which is expected to triple by 2031. In addition to Muslims, there are other groups, which also comprise a significant proportion of halal consumers who value the halal products for health, safety, taste and cultural reasons.

The new labeling requirements provide these consumers with the vital information as to which certifier has deemed the product to be halal. This is a significant shift away from the current practice where many restaurants, food retailers and products affix a ‘halal’ sign without any information as to their justification for such a claim or to which standard they adhere to.

The market is lucrative and so are the chances to commit fraud by selling non-halal meat as halal. The problem is compounded by the fact that in spite of agreeing on the fundamentals there is no single universally accepted standard of halal either in Canada or elsewhere. The government has stayed away from imposing a standard from above and has instead left it to the community to arrive at a consensus if at all possible.

But it could have done several other things from which it has shied away thus making the amendment not meet its full potential rendering it ineffective.

The most important weakness in the amendment is that it doesn’t regulate the certifiers. The backgrounder to the amendment says the Canadian Food Inspection Agency will not ‘establish requirements for becoming a certifying body.’

This essentially means that any person or group can certify and there is absolutely no oversight over their credentials or activities. Even a rudimentary knowledge of halal regulations or food production is not required to become a halal certifier. This is an open invitation for fraud to continue in the halal market.

As in the past there are many individuals, with no more than an access to a computer and a printer, who issue halal certificates with little or no inspection. This becomes even more problematic in the processed food and medicinal drug industries which involve complex ingredients and production processes and whose halal status can only be determined by a body with both religious scholars and food scientists & technologists on board.

The current regulations are also vague on the penalties for offenders of the regulation making the whole exercise effectively useless.

The CFIA presently regulates and approves Organic certifiers. It is puzzling why it can’t do the same for halal and kosher certifiers. The government cannot shirk its responsibility by citing the lack of community consensus by excluding itself from facilitating such an exercise.

In 2011 the federal government gave $763,650 for the Canadian Kosher Food Safety Initiative with the aim to bring together various industry stakeholders and establish minimum standards, which could be voluntary adopted. Lacking such government involvement keeps the door open to cartels and monopolies to reduce consumer choice.

This is already happening in the market with vested commercial interests using information networks like mosques, food festivals, and supply chains to exclude and discredit halal businesses as well as certification agencies just because they don’t adhere to the certain criteria.

Attempts by private businesses to facilitate consensus have failed both because of conflict of interest as well as suspicion of poaching clients by rival certification bodies in the name of improving transparency.

In such a scenario the Canadian Kosher Food Safety Initiative can serve as a model for the halal industry. It will improve reliability of Canadian halal food products, strengthen consumer confidence, and enhance its reputation globally. Public-private partnership is essential for such an outcome.

[Mohammed Ayub Khan is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Political Science at McMaster University. He also works as a consultant in the halal food industry].

Mosque One documentary screening at IIT

(October 20, 2014) – October is Islamic History Month in Canada (IHMC) and community groups across Toronto are showcasing Muslim contributions to the world.

“Bridge-building with understanding is one of the goals of IHMC,” states the IHMC website. “More importantly, at a time when Muslim are being perceived as the ‘other’, it’s a time dedicated to showcasing Muslims’ contributions to humanity many may not be aware of.”

In the Greater Toronto Area, exhibitions, lectures, documentary screenings have been organized in community centers, libraries, religious institutions and other public facilities.

At the Islamic Institute of Toronto (IIT) in Scarborough, a number of events to celebrate IHMC are being held with a focus on the history of the Muslim presence in Canada.

Learning about Canadian Muslim history at IIT with Dr. Kathy Bullock and Dr. Abdullah Hakim Quick

“I invite you to join me and our special guests, Dr. Kathy Bullock and Dr. Zijad Delic, as we provide you with a glimpse into the rich history and the contemporary reality of Islam in Canada, and the world,” said Dr. Abdullah Hakim Quick, Coordinator of Daw’ah and Outreach at the Islamic Institute and a well-known historian.

Last Friday evening, the Islamic Institute inaugurated its IHMC programming with a screening of ‘Mosque One’, a short documentary of Toronto’s first mosque.

“The presence of Muslims in this part of the world is not new,” Dr. Abdullah Hakim told the audience at the screening. “There are a lot of stories of Islam and Muslims in this country.”

Dr. Kathy Bullock, President of the Tessellate Institute, which produced the documentary, told the gathering that Canadian Muslims should learn from the experiences of early immigrants to the country.

“We should learn from their experiences,” said Dr. Bullock. “We need to know their stories as it will help us to know our history and their contributions and help us combat the Islamophobia we are facing today.”

ICNA’s Islamic Heritage Exhibition at Clarkson Community Centre

Various chapters of the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) in the Greater Toronto Area have also organized lectures and displays to celebrate IHMC.

In Mississauga, an Islamic Heritage Exhibition was put on by the organization last Saturday at the Clarkson Community Centre and a similar exhibition was held in Scarborough at the Agincourt Mall.

Later that evening, ICNA’s Scarborough Chapter held a seminar on the contributions of Islamic Civilization to the world with guest speakers, Imam Yusuf Badat and Muneeb Nasir.

In its eighth year, IHMC has been proclaimed in more than half-a-dozen cities across Canada.

The inauguration of IHMC took place on October 25, 2007 when Canada’s Federal parliament officially declared October as Islamic History Month in Canada.

Cities such as Kingston and Burnaby have annually proclaimed IHMC since the inauguration.

“Islamic History Month Canada provides a time to focus on celebrating and educating the Muslim and non-Muslim community on the rich history, heritage and culture of Canadian Muslims and Muslims around the world,” states IHMC website.

For further information on IHMC and upcoming events visit: www.ihmcanada.com

[This story continues to be updated, as more details are available - last update: Oct. 23 at 9:50pm]

(October 22, 2014) – Muslim leaders are joining with Canadians across the country in expressing their shock and condemnation of today’s attack on the Parliament buildings and National War Memorial in Ottawa which killed an honor guard and injured two people.

The slain soldier is Nathan Cirillo, 24, a reservist serving in Hamilton from the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada regiment.

The dead shooting suspect, killed by the House of Commons Sergeant-at-Arms, has been identified as Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, a Canadian born in 1982. News agencies are reporting that Zehaf-Bibeau was a Montreal resident who had a criminal record in Quebec dating back 10 years on some drug-related charges. He was also charged with robbery in 2011 in Vancouver. Reports say that he had recently converted to Islam.

Canadian Muslims condemn attacks

Canadians lay wreath at the Mississauga Cenotaph in memory of Nathan Cirrillo and the tragic attack on Parliament.

“This is a very sad and disturbing situation for all Canadians,” the Muslim Against Terrorism and the Islamic Supreme Council of Canada said in a press release. “The Canadian Muslim community stands with the Canadian government and supports all the efforts to identify and capture the terrorists. Once again our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.”

Community leaders and organizations issued reaction to the incident on social media.

“Our sincere condolence and sympathy go to the family of the brave soldier shot at War Memorial in Ottawa,” said Dr. Hamid Slimi, a Toronto-based Imam.

“Regardless of who did it and why, we all stand united in keeping Canada safe and free for all,” tweeted Kanata’s Imam Sikander Hashmi.

“All Canadians are horrified and shocked by these repulsive attacks in Ottawa and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families today,” said National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) Executive Director Ihsaan Gardee. 

“We stand firm with fellow Canadians in upholding and protecting the safety and security of our country, as well as our national institutions. We commend our law enforcement agencies for putting themselves in harm’s way in order to protect all of us from terrorism.”

The Muslim Association of Canada (MAC), a national organization, also issued a statement condemning the attacks this week.

“MAC would like to offer its condolences to the victims of violence over the past week,” according to the statement.  “We are horrified by these acts of violence, especially in the Parliament of our nation’s capital; we stand with all Canadians in condemning these attacks and seeking justice for those responsible.”

“MAC strongly rejects any threats against the safety and security of Canadians, and we consider it a civic duty on all to oppose such threats.”

The Muslims of Ottawa-Gatineau issued an open letter to community members stating, “We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our fellow citizens in unequivocally condemning these heinous and cowardly acts which affect all of us.”

“We will continue to do our part to ensure our shared security,” added the statement. “We must not allow these attacks to divide us and we call on all Canadians to join us in working to preserve the safety and freedoms upon which this country was built.”

The Intercultural Dialogue Institute, an organization founded by Turkish-Canadian Muslims stated in a media release, “We believe that we must unite as one human race against terrorism, violent extremism and murderous ideologies to prevent these types of attacks from recurring in the future.”

“Such acts cannot be justified under any circumstances or on any pretext whatsoever,” noted the statement. “They not only run counter to the teachings of Islam but are diametrically opposed to the fundamental character and ethos of this religion. Those who harm others in the name of religion in fact grievously dishonour it.”

In a statement issued Thursday by the Canadian Council of Imams, they stated, “As religious leaders of the Islamic faith in Canada we join our fellow citizens in strongly condemning these recent terrorist attacks.  We once again reiterate our past declarations condemning violent extremism and underscoring Canadian Muslims’ commitment to the safety and security of Canada.  This includes a warning to Canadians about ISIS and its deviant nature.”

On Wednesday night, a group of citizens came out to lay a wreath at the Streetsville Cenotaph in Mississauga.

“It is to express our sadness and outrage at what happened in Ottawa today,” said community leader, Omar Alghabra. “Regardless who the terrorist was, we will stand in condemnation of this heinous act.”

On Thursday, a prayer and wreath ceremony was held by the Muslim Council of Greater Hamilton at the armoury in the city at 2:30 p.m.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Corporal Nathan Cirillo and all others who were injured in the attack,” said Dr. Ali Taher Ghouse, President of the Muslim Council of Greater Hamilton. “We endorse the declaration today made by the National Council of Canadian Muslims, and stand firm by our fellow Canadians to uphold the safety and security of all Canadians and our institutions.”

“Muslims across Canada appreciate the ability to practice their faith in peace,” said Sayed Tora, Imam of the Hamilton Downtown Mosque. “This small group of criminals who ascribe to violent and radical ideologies are not part of Islam.”

The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) stated in a press release, “Our thoughts and sympathies go out to the family and friends of the victims of these horrific acts. We extend our deepest condolences to them as words cannot express the sadness we feel over the loss of innocent lives.”

“We appreciate and support the work of our law enforcement agencies in their tireless efforts to make Canada a safe place for all.”

The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA Canada) issued a release that stated, “On behalf of Muslim Community of Canada, we condemn the attack in Ottawa today that killed soldier Cpl. Nathan Cirillo. “

 “We share their pain, feelings and sympathize with the family of deceased soldier. We applaud law enforcement agencies in Canada for controlling the situation that could have resulted in more casualties. We also urge everyone to expose any person who would cause harm to fellow Canadians in any form.”

Response from Canada’s leaders

Prime Minister Stephen Harper

During an address tonight to the nation from an undisclosed location, Prime Minster Stephen Harper said the incident in Ottawa was a ‘terrorist’ act.

“Canada is not immune to the types of terrorist attacks we have seen elsewhere around the world,” Prime Minister Harper said.

“They will have no safe haven,” he said. “Together we will remain vigilant against those at home or abroad who wish to harm us.”

Thomas Mulcair, leader of the official opposition, said he stands shoulder to shoulder with the Prime Minister.

“At this moment Canadians are unified in grief and stricken with disbelief,” Mulcair said. “Canada is shaken today but we shall not waiver. We woke up this morning in a country blessed by love, diversity and peace and tomorrow we will do the same.”

“This attack is unforgivable,” said Liberal Leader, Justin Trudeau. “Should any other perpetrators or co-conspirators exist, they must be caught and be punished to the full force of our laws. I’ve extended an offer of full support to the government, along with any assistance members of our party can provide at this time.”

“To our friends and fellow citizens in the Muslim community, Canadians know acts such as these committed in the name of Islam are an aberration of your faith,” added Trudeau. “Continued mutual cooperation and respect will help prevent the influence of distorted ideological propaganda posing as religion. We will walk forward together, not apart.”

Police increase presence in cities

Ottawa Police Chief Charles Bordeleau

In Ottawa and Toronto, the Police Service sent out messages to local community and Faith leaders assuring them of their commitment to the safety of residents.

“As the events unfold on Parliament Hill and the downtown core, it is incumbent upon us as a police service to be aware of how this incident may have an impact on our local communities,” said Ottawa Police Chief Bordeleau in a communiqué.  “We understand that the recent tragic event in St. Jean de Richelieu and today may be very challenging for members of our communities, and that this incident may exacerbate these challenges.”

“The Ottawa Police Service has a long standing collaboration with our various faith and communities leaders that have allowed us to build strong and positive relationships,” added Chief Bordeleau.  “With this in mind, I want to take this opportunity to reiterate my commitment to ensure the safety of all of our communities.”

“If at any time, you or a member of your community feels that there is a life-threatening emergency or crime in progress, you are strongly encouraged to call 9-1-1.  For all other non-emergency crimes, or for general inquiries, your are encouraged to call 613-236-1222,” noted the communiqué.

In Toronto, the Chief’s Muslim Consultative Committee issued an advisory to community organizations.

“I have asked our Divisional Unit Commanders to deploy their officers to those institutions (military and religious), infrastructure or symbolic targets and to pay special attention as well,” stated Mario Di Tommaso, OOM, Staff Superintendent – Central Field Command.

“This means that you will be seeing heightened patrols and checks of your respective mosques,” added Supt. Di Tommaso. “I am asking you to relay to your mosques and their Imams, that we as a Service, are aware that your mosques may be vulnerable to a backlash from those who have linked this attack to Islamic Extremism, and that is why we are increasing our patrols.”

A sad day for Canada

The sergeant-at-arms of Canada’s parliament, Kevin Vickers, in his ceremonial robes.

Tonight, police and other officials in Ottawa will not say if they are looking for any more suspects but they are telling people to be vigilant.

Ottawa police confirmed they had a call at 9:52 a.m. with a report of shots fired.

The rifle-wielding gunman, after shooting the honor guard at the War Memorial, Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, moved up the street to launch an attack on nearby Parliament Hill.

The House of Commons Sergeant-at-Arms, 58 year-old Kevin Vickers, killed the gunman in the parliament buildings.

“MPs and Hill staff owe their safety, even lives, to Sergeant at Arms Kevin Vickers who shot attacker just outside the MPs’ caucus rooms,” tweeted New Democrat Member of Parliament, Craig Scott.

The sergeant-at-arms is responsible for safeguarding the authority of the House of Commons, as well as the safety and security of the Parliament Buildings.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper was rushed away from the parliament building to an undisclosed location.

The shooting put all federal government buildings into lockdown and police urged people to stay away from the downtown core of Ottawa.

Across Canada, military bases were put on alert and soldiers have been cautioned about wearing uniforms in public.

A witness, Tony Zobl, described the incident to the Canadian Press News Agency.

“I looked out the window and saw a shooter, a man dressed all in black with a kerchief over his nose and mouth and something over his head as well, holding a rifle and shooting an honour guard in front of the Cenotaph point blank, twice,” Tony Zobl told The Canadian Press.

“It looked like the honour guard was trying to reach for the barrel of the gun,” said the witness. “The honour guard dropped to the ground and the shooter kind of raised his arms in triumph holding the rifle.”

Second attack in a week

It was the second attack in Canada this week. On Monday, Martin Couture-Rouleau, who had converted to Islam last year and took the name Ahmad Rouleau, rammed his car into the two Canadian Forces members.The 25-year-old Couture-Rouleau was shot and killed after a car chase by Quebec police.

The RCMP investigated Martin Couture-Rouleau for four months as they suspected he had become radicalized. The RCMP arrested him when he tried to fly to Turkey this summer and seized his passport. However, the police did not have enough evidence to charge him.

(October 24, 2014) – When news spread that the mosque in Cold Lake had been vandalized overnight, residents of the north-eastern Alberta city showed up to express their disappointment and to scrub off the hate messages and repair the house of worship.

The MAC Islamic Centre of Cold Lake was vandalised, with its windows smashed and the graffiti “go home” and “Canada” were spray-painted on the exterior of the building.

Cold Lake residents scrubbed off the hate message and replaced them with posters reading, “Love your neighbour” and “You are home.”

“I just came to help these guys get it off the building and bring them supplies, a ladder, graffiti remover,” Nikki Williams, a Cold Lake resident, told Global News. “The people who go to this mosque, I’ve been born and raised with since I was a little kid. This is their home.”

“We don’t condone this at all. We’re a very tight community – the Muslims along with every other religion in this town – Cold Lake is their home.”

Residents replace graffiti with “Love your neighbour” and “You are home” signs

The vandalism was discovered on Friday morning by Mahmoud El-Kadri, a director at the mosque, when he arrived for the early morning prayer at 6 a.m.

As soon as Mayor Craig Copeland heard of the vandalism, he drove over to the mosque to offer support to the Muslim community.

“Just what’s spray painted on the mosque, I mean, ‘go home’… The Muslim community here is at home here in Cold Lake,” said Mayor Copeland.

The mayor says that his community is upset at the desecration of the house of worship.

“All of Cold Lake is rallying around the mosque and the Muslim community,” he said.

“So many people from Cold Lake were coming up to them and apologizing and saying this by no means represents Cold Lake… There were actually several people in tears.”

Genia Leskiw, MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake, calls the vandalism ‘un-Canadian.’

Residents, including soldiers, show up at the mosque to offer support

“It’s undemocratic and un-Canadian,” said Leskiw. “It’s unbelievable. It floors me. I’m so upset by this.”

Jason Kenney, Minister for Multiculturalism, issued a statement condemning the act of vandalism against the Cold Lake Mosque.

“Earlier today vandals spray painted the Cold Lake Mosque in Cold Lake, Alberta with hate messages,” said Minister Kenney. “This cowardly act is unacceptable and has no place in Canada.”

“Canada is a strong, peaceful, pluralistic nation, and Canadians will not stand for crimes of intolerance and bigotry against anyone,” he added. “As Minister for Multiculturalism, I call on Canadians to firmly reject this and any other cowardly expressions of hatred against Canadians of any faith.”

Residents, including soldiers, have been showing up at the mosque throughout the day to offer support to the Muslim community.

“These guys are peaceful, and I think it’s important for the community to show them that we know the difference between extremists and a religion,” Cold Lake resident Matt Downy told Reuters, bringing a vase of flowers to the mosque.

“You are Home” sign put up by residents

The kindness and support of Cold Lake residents have touched Cold Lake’s Muslim community.

“I want to thank everybody,” Mahmoud El-Kadri told Global News. “I am in my country, my home, but they assured for me that I am in my country, in my home.”

“I had calls from all over Canada, from Vancouver, from Ottawa… Toronto… Edmonton,” added El-Kadri. “When I came this morning and I felt the support of Cold Lake, I really forgot what happened.”

“I forgot the windows, I forget about the writing… It made me feel like I am one of the Cold Lake people.”

The Muslim Association of Canada (MAC), which administers the mosque, issued a statement thanking the residents of Cold Lake for the overwhelming support.

“Today, we received an overwhelming and heartfelt response of support from friends across the community who assisted in a clean-up following an overnight incident at the local Mosque,” stated the organization. “We’re extremely grateful for the support. It is a reminder of the great country we live in and the values that we, as Canadians, hold dear.”

Meanwhile, Canadians are taking to social media to offer support to the Muslim community and thank residents of Cold Lake.

“Huge thanks to good people of Cold Lake, AB (incl. soldiers) for coming out to clean vandalism at mosque,” tweeted Kanata’s Imam Sikander Hashmi. “We’re united against hate & fear.”

“This is why Canada is truly an Abode of Peace,” tweeted Ingrid Mattson.

The RCMP is investigating the incident and police are asking Muslims who fear for their safety to contact them.

Tips can be called in to the Cold Lake RCMP at 780-594-3301. Anonymous information can also be submitted to CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222- 8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

[With files from News Agencies]

The 2014 Scarborough Urban Hero Award recipients

(October 24, 2014) – Majied Ali, a founder of the Islamic Soccer League, has been recognized as an Urban Hero in Scarborough.

Ali founded the League in 1994 as a small recreational program for 34 local children with two volunteer coaches and it has now grown into a multi-faceted league with over 100 volunteer coaches catering to over 1600 participants, ages 5 to 18.

Majied Ali

The annual Urban Hero Award is a Metroland Media Toronto initiative and is run across communities in the City of Toronto.

“They are for individuals who stand out in a crowd because they have made a difference in our neighbourhoods,” states the Urban Heroes website. “The awards are for groups and businesses that are committed to making our community a better place to live.”

This year, 18 community leaders were honoured in the categories of arts and culture, business, community, education, environment, health and science, and sports.

The Islamic Soccer League is community-based, non-profit organization whose stated mission is ‘to nurture good moral character and provide opportunities for players to socialize with others successfully and to learn positive people skills.’

“Through soccer Islamic Soccer League (ISL) works to instill a stronger sense of self-worth in its players based on their mastery of skills and understanding of the game,” sates the ISL website. “Players have the opportunity to assume leadership, cooperate with others; question actions and regulations and accept responsibility for their own behaviour.”

[The 2014 Scarborough Urban Hero Award recipients photo credit: MIKE POCHWAT, Inside Toronto]

(October 26, 2014) – An interfaith service, ‘A Prayer for Ottawa’, was held on Sunday at Ottawa’s Christ Church Anglican Cathedral bringing together Faith leaders and communities in the wake of the deadly shooting that rocked Canadians on Oct. 22.

“The service is “for the people of Ottawa” and is meant to “create an atmosphere of unity, prayerful resolve and hope as we collectively come to terms with the affront and tragedy of October 22,” said the dean of the cathedral, Shane Parker.

Religious leaders and government officials spoke at the service.

The cathedral’s Choir of Men and Boys, under the direction of Matthew Larkin, a world-renowned musician accompanied the service.

Imam Samy Metwally and Rabbi Barry Schlesinger both condemned the attacks and Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson said that Cpl. Nathan Cirillo who was killed at the National War Memorial “would never be forgotten” in Ottawa.

“Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth,” read Canon Catherine Ascah from the Book of Matthew, to the congregation.

[Photo credit: Cole Burston / Ottawa Citizen]

(October 28, 2014) – Canadian Muslims who have been the victim of a hate crime are being asked to immediately report the incident to the police as well as to the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM).

The advisory, issued by NCCM following the recent attacks in Ottawa and St-Jean-rue-Richelieu, is also asking Muslim communities across Canada to review their existing institutional safety and security measures

“Incidents of mosque vandalism, threats to mosques and intimidation of Canadian Muslims have been reported in Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario,” said Ihsaan Gardee, Executive Director of NCCM, in the advisory. “Community leaders and mosque administrators should read the NCCM’s Community Safety Guide, which offers practical tips and recommendations to help ensure the safety of congregations and Muslim institutions.”

“A hate crime is one in which hate is the motive and can involve intimidation, harassment, physical force or threat of physical force against a person, a group or a property, ” Gardee noted.

NCCM is asking Muslims to take the following actions in the event of an incident:
• Incidents of vandalism, physical assault or threats of violence should be immediately reported to local police and to the NCCM.
• Mosque and school administrators should report any threatening or hostile phone calls or messages to local police; do not engage hateful callers.
• Staff and volunteers should be asked to be vigilant about security and be prepared to report any incidents.
• Contact your local police and ask them to increase patrols around your institution.
• Report any incidents to the NCCM via our online Incident Report Form.
• Share this information with your friends and loved ones.

(October 29, 2014) – Canadian Muslims are eager to reconnect with nature and learn more about environmental issues, according to environmentalist, Muaz Nasir.

“There is a real desire within the Muslim community, especially among the youth, to reconnect with nature and learn more about the natural environment around us,” he told IQRA.

Nasir led a nature hike through Toronto’s Taylor Creek Trail organized by the Islamic Institute of Toronto (IIT) Youth Council on Saturday, Oct 25^th. He is a Muslim Canadian environmentalist who is the publisher of the website, Khaleafa.com.

In August, an interfaith hike was held in the same location.

“Initiatives such as the IIT hike promote, not only a better understanding of the ecology of Toronto’s park system, but also raises awareness about some of the threats such as invasive species, flash flooding and pollution within our waterways,” added Muaz Nasir.

Over two dozen people participated in the hike through Taylor Creek Park, located in eastern Toronto, and which follows a major tributary to the Forks of the Don River.

Three rivers meet at the forks and form the Lower Don River: the East Don, the West Don and this tributary.

Known by several names over the years, the two most commonly used names — Taylor and Massey Creek — are taken from two families with important historical ties to the area. A third name, Silver Creek, was used during the early 1800’s.

“Islam clearly identifies our responsibility as stewards of the environment and opportunities such as this hike educates Muslim youth on how to take a proactive role in engaging in its future development” added Muaz Nasir.

(October 31, 2014) – The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) is calling on political and community leaders to forcefully condemn all hate-motivated actions following this morning’s vandalism of the Assunah Muslims Association (AMA) mosque in Ottawa.

“We call on our federal, provincial, and municipal leaders to speak out forcefully and unambiguously against anti-Muslim sentiments and acts. It is the duty of our elected representatives, as well as the duty of all Canadians, to stand united against any attacks on minority communities,” said NCCM Executive Director Ihsaan Gardee.

Worshippers attending dawn prayers this morning arrived at the large facility in Ottawa’s south end to find multiple broken windows. Ottawa police are investigating the incident.

“This incident is the latest in a spate of anti-Muslim harassment and vandalism that we have been documenting since the tragic events of last week,” added Gardee. “There has been a noticeable spike in reported hate crimes and incidents. However, as we have said before, this only tells part of the story as hate crimes are typically under-reported.”

Other incidents that have been reported include the vandalism of the Cold Lake mosque in Alberta, threats to the BC Muslim Association, as well as anti-Muslim harassment of municipal candidates in Toronto.

The NCCM says that it is currently monitoring additional cases that have been reported in recent days.

“Certainly, these incidents do not represent the sentiments of the vast majority of Canadians and we fully expect the authorities to prosecute the perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law in order to send a strong message against potential hate crimes and intolerance,” said Gardee.

“In the meantime, we urge community leaders and individuals to remain vigilant and to immediately report suspicious behaviour to the proper authorities, as well as to the NCCM, in order to establish a clear record of such incidents.”

(November 6, 2014) – The mother of 22-year-old Canadian Damian Clairmont, who was killed fighting for the so-called Islamic State (ISIL), has announced the launch of a counseling program for radicalized youth.

“After experiencing so much pain, fear, trauma and panic in a very lonely place, I decided it wasn’t right for other families to have to go through this,” said Clairmont’s mother, Christianne Boudreau.

“If I can help save one life and one family from the same pain, Damian won’t have died in vain, and it will make all my efforts worth it.

“I would like to see all Canadians come together regardless of race, culture, religion, economical circumstance or family dynamic to build resilience in our communities and families,” she added.

Damian Clairmont was born in the eastern Canadian province of Nova Scotia and reverted to Islam following his dropout from high school.

Clairmont, who took the name Mustafa al-Gharib, traveled to the Middle East in late 2012, telling his mother that he was going to study Arabic in Egypt.

However, he went to Syria and joined Nusra Front and then went on to fight for ISIL.

He was killed in a town outside of Aleppo in December 2012 while fighting for ISIL.

Christianne Boudreau has set-up Hayat Canada Family Support, a family counseling and outreach program for relatives and friends of persons involved in extremist groups or on the path of a violent radicalization, including those traveling to battlefields in the Middle East.

“While seeking help for my own situation with my son, Damian Clairmont, I quickly realized that it was very difficult to find anyone to help us,” said Christianne Boudreau.

“Through a lot of research, I found that there were many organizations in Europe taking a very pro-active and support approach to the situation.”

“In fact, Hayat Germany has been operating since 2011 with a very good success rate,” she added.

Larger Effort

The Hayat Canada Family Support is modeled on the German-based Hayat, which has had success as a counseling service for radical young Muslims and their families.

“The steps which Hayat uses to approach the situation start with a risk assessment as not all cases will be extreme,” Christianne Boudreau said.

“It could just be a situation of a family going through a sense of panic due to lack of knowledge and education on this topic.”

“Once that has been established, as each case is very individual, coaching and support will be provided for the family to try and reach out to the youth at risk from a logical and trained approach to try and reign the youth back in,” continued Boudreau.

“We will also provide grief support if the family has already lost a loved one to this.  In the meantime, we will continuously deliver and provide educational awareness to communities and youth through partnerships with other organizations.”

Boudreau is raising funds to provide a 1-800 hotline for easier access as well as additional resources for 24/7 access and ongoing education and training.

“We have an official public launch planned for November 24th in Calgary for a project called Extreme Dialogue partnered with Institute for Strategic Dialogue in the UK,” said Boudreau.

“This is both an educational program, including resource guides, as well as propaganda for the various social media platforms to try and stop what is being put out by ISIS in an effort to counter their narrative.”

“We will continue to be open to new programs and opportunities to support families and communities as they come along, while partnering with as many programs and organizations that it takes,” she noted.

Christianne Boudreau’s website, http://hayatcanada.webs.com, includes a link to a crowd funding donation page where she hopes to raise $250,000 for the project.

(November 10, 2014) – Three Quebec City mosques were targeted over the weekend with signs reading “Islam hors de chez moi” — Islam out of my country — pasted on the mosques’ doors.

The three mosques desecrated were in the Limoilou neighbourhood, the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City in Ste-Foy and the capital city mosque in Quebec City.

A group named Québec Identitaire was written on the posters.

Khalil​ Bahji, who attends the Limoilou mosque, told CBC News that he and his fellow congregation members are saddened by the attack.

An administrator at another mosque said they have handed over a security tape to police showing two people putting up signs on their door.

The administrator told Radio-Canada that he believed they were isolated incidents and that he wasn’t worried, shrugging it off as an unfortunate incident of cultural ignorance.

“While these types of acts are hurtful, Canadian Muslims know they do not represent the views of the vast majority of their fellow citizens.  We call on authorities to investigate these incidents as hate crimes so that a clear message is sent that these acts have no place in our communities,” said the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) Executive Director, Ihsaan Gardee.

“We also need to hear from all levels of government and from our community leaders that we all stand united against hate. Canada is a multicultural, pluralistic country which is strengthened by its diversity.”

The incidents are the latest in a spate of anti-Muslim harassment and vandalism that have been documented since the tragic attacks last month in Ottawa and Saint-Jean-Rue-Richelieu.

Other incidents which have been reported include the vandalism of several mosques including one in Cold Lake, Alberta, as well as the anti-Muslim harassment of municipal candidates in Toronto, and threats to the BC Muslim Association.

According to  NCCM, they are currently following up additional cases of possible hate crimes and incidents targeting individuals and organizations.

“We urge community members to remain vigilant and to immediately report suspicious behaviour to the proper authorities, as well as to the NCCM, in order to establish a clear record of such incidents,” added Ihsaan Gardee.

Mohamad Fakih, CEO of Paramount Fine Foods and Kashif Khan, CEO of The K. Khan Group make $100K donation to True Patriot Love Foundation

(November 10, 2014) – Today, two prominent Muslim Canadian business leaders launched a $1M fund at a downtown Toronto mosque to support veteran families in partnership with the charity, True Patriot Love Foundation.

“There has been a gap between immigrant communities and mainstream Canadian causes,” said Mohamad Fakih, CEO of Paramount Fine Foods. “With the launch of the Salaam-TPL Fund, we plan to raise awareness and participation among these immigrant communities, starting with the Muslim community, on a national level to bridge this gap.”

Mohamad Fakih, CEO of Paramount Fine Foods, speaking about the Salaam-TPL Fund to help veteran families

Co-founders Mohamad Fakih, CEO of Paramount Fine Foods and Kashif Khan, CEO of The K. Khan Group launched the Salaam-TPL Fund with a $100,000 donation and challenged others in the Muslim community to help reach the goal of raising $1M.

The Salaam-TPL Fund was created in the wake of the tragic events that shook the nation last month.

The funds raised will support the needs of veterans and military families.

“Mohamad and I recognized the need for a catalyst to engage our community,” said Kashif Khan, CEO of The K. Khan Group. “We challenge fellow Muslims across Canada to show their support for Canadian military families, who dedicate their lives to the service of our country, by giving to this fund in the months ahead.”

True Patriot Love Foundation (TPL) is a national charity that honours the sacrifices of members of the Canadian Armed Forces, veterans and their families in both times of peace and conflict.

“TPL is extremely proud to have the opportunity to partner with Paramount Fine Foods and The K. Khan Group,” said Michael Burns, Co-Founder and Vice Chair of the True Patriot Love Foundation. “This demonstrates that all Canadians can and will rally together to show their support for our military families.”

TPL funds programs and innovative research in the areas of mental health, physical rehabilitation, family support and veteran transition.

Since 2009, True Patriot Love has raised more than $18-million to support military charities across Canada.

For more information, please visit www.truepatriotlove.com.

(November 11, 2014) – Opheera Nasir, a pioneer member of the Canadian Muslim community and wife of late Mohamed Nasir, former president of the Islamic Foundation of Toronto, passed away on Monday evening, November 10.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sr. Opheera Nasir, mother of Br. Muneeb Nasir – a founding member and first President of IIT,” a statement sent to OnIslam.net from the Islamic Institute of Toronto (IIT) read.

“We pray that Allah grants the family patience to bear their loss and gives them solace and comfort in this time of grief.”

At the age of 88, Opheera Nasir passed away peacefully on November 10.

The Janaza will take place on Tuesday, November 11 after Zuhr prayer at 1 pm at the Islamic Foundation of Toronto in Scarborough.

Nasir is survived by four children, Zahida Ali, Khalida Juman-Yassin, Shakira Haniff and Muneeb Nasir, 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Muneeb Nasir, OnIslam.net Canada correspondent, is the President of the Olive Tree Foundation and Managing Editor of the online IQRA.ca magazine.

Opheera was the wife of the late Mohamed Nasir, former President of the Islamic Foundation of Toronto, and one of the pioneers in the development of the Muslim community in Toronto.

She was the fourth child of the well-known Guyanese Muslim leader and Imam, Mohamed Ahmad Nasir of the Vreed-en-Hoop Masjid and Shaban McDoom.

On immigrating to Canada in 1973 with her husband and family, Opheera Nasir became actively engaged in public service with the Islamic Foundation of Toronto, the Jami Mosque and the MSA Women’s Committee.

The late pioneer was a pillar of the Islamic Foundation community in its early history, mentoring younger women and organizing educational seminars, youth camps and cultural events. She accompanied her husband, the late Mohamed Nasir, in his extensive travels in the Muslim world in the 1980s and 90s, in support of the Islamic Foundation‘s project.

She served as the Canadian Zonal Representative of the MSA Women’s Committee in the 1970s and was also actively engaged in the Jami Mosque and ISNA communities.

In 1991, the Ontario Women’s Directorate recognized Opheera Nasir for her `contributions as an advocate of women.’

The award stated, “the decoration is a reminder of the values of service, individual respect and community effort on which Canada was built and on which its quality of life will always depend.”