Muslims reject glorification of violence, call for thorough investigation

(Ottawa, Canada - 24/3/05) - CAIR-CAN today issued a statement regarding recent media reports of an incident that took place at a local Ottawa Islamic school.

In a statement released today, CAIR-CAN wrote:

"Canadian Muslims categorically reject the glorification of violence or the promotion of hate against any ethnic community.

"The school in question has, to our understanding, immediately attended to this matter. There must be a thorough investigation and concrete steps must be taken to ensure that a similar situation is never repeated.

"While the contents of the story are unacceptable, it must be kept in mind that the piece in question is the fictional work of a young Canadian boy of Palestinian origin whose extended family is living under a brutal Israeli occupation. The writing of the story by this child must be understood in that context.

"Instead of constructively addressing the subject matter of the piece, the teacher praised its contents. Issues like this that involve very entrenched and emotional conflict must be addressed in a balanced manner that emphasizes the importance of working towards a peaceful resolution and the saving of human life. Any celebration of violence is unacceptable.

"It is irresponsible for certain media to decry the violence contained in the piece while disclosing the address of the school and the names of the minors, knowing full well that the disclosure might subject the school or students to violence or harm."