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CAIR-CAN Calls on Canadian Muslims to ignore film
Thursday, September 13, 2012 4:57 pm
CAIR-CAN Calls on Canadian Muslims to ignore film
- For Immediate Release -
(Ottawa, Canada – September 13, 2012) - A national Muslim human rights and civil liberties advocacy organization is calling on Canadian Muslims to ignore the movie that has prompted widespread protests across the Middle East and to instead reiterate their commitment to building bridges with others.
“The movie has nothing to do with Islam, nor with the West’s understanding of it. It has everything to do with an agenda aimed at fomenting hatred and bigotry,” says Ihsaan Gardee, Executive-Director at the Canadian Council on American-Islamic Relations. “Canadian Muslims stand shoulder to shoulder with their fellow citizens who support inter-faith dialogue and cooperation.”
CAIR-CAN has joined other national and international Muslim organizations in expressing unequivocal condemnation of the murder of American citizens, including US Ambassador to Libya, Chris Stevens.
“Nothing can justify the taking of innocent lives,” says Mr. Gardee. “The killings and the mayhem are antithetical to the teachings of Islam. Prophet Muhammad faced numerous insults and threats over the course of his life, and he did not retaliate with violent acts.
“This is a time to strengthen the bonds that bind us, and not let extremists on either side create an environment of fear and suspicion.”
Responding to news reports that some Canadians intend to screen the movie, Mr. Gardee says that CAIR-CAN supports the right to freedom of expression - even if it is deemed offensive. He further urged Canadian imams to counsel their congregants to marginalize the extremists by ignoring the film.
Instead, Canadian Muslims attending Friday prayers should be advised to reach out to colleagues, friends, and neighbours in a spirit of friendship and goodwill.
CAIR-CAN is a national, non-profit, grassroots organization striving to be a leading voice that enriches Canadian society through Muslim civic engagement and the promotion of human rights.
CONTACT:
Ihsaan Gardee, CAIR-CAN Executive Director, 613-254-9704, 613-853-4111
Amira Elghawaby, CAIR-CAN Human Rights Officer, 613-254-9704
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