The Canadian Islamic Congress is strongly rejecting a recent motion in the Quebec National Assembly that could prevent Muslims in that province from asking their local spiritual leaders for help in resolving personal and/or family disputes.
Prompted by secular Muslim Liberal, Fatima Houda-Pepin, QNA members voted unanimously on Thursday (May 26, 2005) in support of a motion against having Islamic tribunals in Quebec and the rest of Canada.
"Regrettably, the passing of this regressive motion shows how politically vulnerable Canadian Muslims have become," said CIC national president Dr. Mohamed Elmasry. "Ms Houda-Pepin and the QNA have taken a racist and dangerous direction that would be rejected out of hand by any other Canadian religious community."
"Could anyone imagine such a motion coming up about Canadian Jews or Christians?" he asked. "It simply would not be tolerated. Other faith groups raise their voices and flex their political muscles when faced with legislation that is so ridiculous and blatantly discriminatory and Muslims must do so too ... We have the numbers. Politicians will listen and will not be allowed to compromise our charter rights as minority."
CONTACTS:
Dr. Mohamed Elmasry
(519) 746-4107 (O)
(519) 577-2267 (Cell)
e-mail:
np@canadianislamiccongress.com
Mrs. Wahida Valiante, CIC's National VP
(905) 771-1023,
e-mail:
nvp@canadianislamiccongress.com
FOR FRENCH MEDIA:
Dr. Mohamed Nekili
(514) 745-1255
e-mail:
mohamed.nekili@videotron.ca
