“Islam Unravelled” to tackle Islamophobia

DISCRIMINATION THROUGH EDUCATION AND DIALOG

March 21st marks the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination across the world. On that day, in 1960, police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa, against the apartheid pass laws. Proclaiming the day in 1966, the United Nations General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination. With this important event in the backdrop, Islam Unravelled, a project initiated in collaboration with community and government partners across Canada, was launched in Surrey Arts Center. The purpose of this project is to tackle Islamophobia and Discrimination in all of its forms through education and dialogue. It was attended by officials of various levels of government and community organizations who conveyed, their commitment to reinforce Canadian values of inclusivity and respect. Speakers at the event included Hon. Peter Fassbender- Minister for BC Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, Harry Bains- NDP MLA for Surrey Newton, Jinny Sims and Jagrup Brar - BC NDP Candidates, John Brewer, RCMP Superintendent ‘E’ Division and aboriginal and interfaith community representatives. The Keynote Address was delivered by Mufti Aasim Rashid, Head of Islam Unravelled who spoke about the project’s origins, mandate, current and future work and how Canadians can benefit from this program in the coming months and years. Islam Unravelled is an initiative of the Al-Ihsan Educational Foundation with support of the Al Jamia Masjid Vancouver, Islamic organizations and individuals from across BC and the nation.