September 17, 2024

We, the 769 undersigned individuals and organizations from across Canada, strongly condemn the recent attacks on Amira Elghawaby, Canada’s Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia. These calls for her removal misrepresent her role and unfairly portray her as divisive, despite her longstanding commitment to fostering inclusivity, human rights, and meaningful dialogue.

The recent criticisms attempt to conflate Amira’s defense of Palestinian rights with antisemitism, creating a misleading equivalence that distorts her efforts. It is crucial to differentiate between criticism of state policies and hatred directed at individuals based on their identity. Often, these attacks are politically motivated, aimed at undermining her efforts to protect marginalized groups. Amira has consistently denounced all forms of hatred while championing the right to peaceful protest. Her support for free expression aligns with the democratic values foundational to Canadian society. 

Amira’s career reflects a dedicated commitment to combating Islamophobia and racism. Her work includes advocating for Muslim rights, addressing structural Islamophobia, and supporting initiatives that build understanding across communities. Her firm stance against all forms of racism highlights her dedication to reconciliation and interfaith dialogue. The current attacks seek to undermine her legitimate advocacy for Palestinian rights and distract from the pressing issue of rising Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism in Canada.

Moreover, Amira’s call for greater Muslim, Palestinian, and Arab representation in academia is intended to promote diversity and inclusion, not to undermine Quebec’s value system. The accusation that her recommendations threaten Quebec’s values is both unfounded and unfair, serving only to discredit her legitimate advocacy for increased representation. Research shows that diverse representation enriches academic environments and better reflects the complexity of Canadian society. Her efforts are meant to foster inclusive dialogue rather than sow discord.

We urge all Canadians to stand in solidarity with Amira Elghawaby. Her voice is essential in the fight against all forms of hate, and her contributions to advancing civil rights and free speech are vital for building a more inclusive society.

Sincerely,

The Signatories (Organizations)

  1. Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council (CMPAC)
  2. Canadian Muslim Civil Liberties Association
  3. Justice For All Canada 
  4. Muslim Association of Canada (MAC)
  5. Canadian Council of Imams  
  6. Action for Humanity Canada 
  7. Independent Jewish Voices
  8. Hikma Public Affairs Council
  9. Muslim Young Professionals
  10. Think for Actions 
  11. Islamic Information Society of Calgary 
  12. The Gravity Well
  13. Islamic Centre of Southwest Ontario 
  14. Muslim Association of Woodstock 
  15. Downtown Muslim Professional Network 
  16. Bosnian Islamic Centre of Hamilton
  17. Al Huda Institute Canada
  18. Canadian Muslim Healthcare Network
  19. Palestinian and Jewish Unity (PAJU)
  20. Healthy Muslim Families
  21. Edmonton Islamic Centre 
  22. Ontario Palestinian Rights Association (OPRA)
  23. Saskatoon Chapter of Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East
  24. Tarbiyah Elementary School
  25. Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW)
  26. Action 4 Palestine Healthcare Workers Coalition
  27. Ottawa Healthcare Professionals for Palestine
  28. Muslim Association of Brantford
  29. Canadian Council of Muslim Women- Montreal Chapter
  30. CBET
  31. Muslim Link 
  32. North London Islamic Centre
  33. Muslim Food Bank & Community Services
  34. Human Concern International 
  35. Islamic Centre of Southwest Ontario 
  36. Mississauga-Streetsville 4 Palestine (MS4P)
  37. Women Empowerment Society 
  38. Canadians Against Oppression And Persecution(CAOP)
  39. The Ottawa Muslim Association 
  40. Canadian Muslim Healthcare Network
  41. Sarnians for Palestinians
  42. Share2 Care 
  43. New Brunswickers for Justice and Peace for Palestine
  44. Bradford West Gwillimbury 4 Palestine
  45. Ontario Palestinian Rights Association (OPRA)
  46. Simcoe County 4 Palestine
  47. Ottawa Muslim Association
  48. IslamicFamily (Edmonton)

The list of Individuals is included in the letter to the Prime Minister of Canada.