IMAM MOHAMAD JEBARA,
Show compassion to victims, writes Mohamad Jebara
Recently, a cartoon depicting Syrian refugees as a Trojan horse concealing extremists has circulated, supplemented by countless articles and blogs goading the public to cease its support for refugees. Such an image is not only highly insensitive, but is telling of the artist’s lack of empathy. It is evident that such an artist has never lived in a war-torn country where 80 per cent of the population live in poverty.
In a world of continuing carnage, penetrating hatred, escalating suspicion, and alarming animosity, many are left perplexed, disturbed and deeply confused. When storms of slaughter rage around us, it is not easy to find peace. Though we are deeply saddened by the senseless and tragic loss of life around the world, the Free World must continue to rise; to remain defiant before the colossal waves of hatred striking our shores; while standing strong in the face of those among us goading to hate. For peace to prevail in the world it must first be nurtured within our hearts; for it is there that healing must begin.
Tens of thousands of refugees are expected to come to Canada from a conflict and culture of which most Canadians know little and understand less. We must remember why we are helping. Like the first Syrian immigrants who came here generations ago, most of the Syrian refugees being brought to Canada will become contributing members of our society. In a few generations they will have also achieved a healthy integration. A few individuals may be problematic, as with every community. Though it is possible extremists could lurk among the newcomers, we must remember that these refugees were the victims of unfathomable atrocities. In emergencies we try to screen each claimant as thoroughly as possible, knowing that no one can monitor the human heart.
It is both unjust and irrational to group all people into one category, but one thing can be known for certain: people don’t leave their
We must remember these refugees were the victims of unfathomable atrocities.
homeland, seeking refuge on the other side of the world, without a pressing, tragic reason. While discernment will definitely be made between criminals and the law-abiding, all will need compassion.
Those who need physical healing may be the easiest to help. Those whose wounds are not so obvious stand in the most precarious position: their trauma is indescribable, their ordeal unimaginable to us. All the while they have to convince us they are here as human beings seeking from human beings for the sake of humanity.
There seems to be an unpleasant tendency for some people to vent their frustration and express their suspicions against those who are suffering and defenceless.
We are often afraid of being duped due to our kindness. Amid escalating negativity and pessimism, we must remember to remain positive and optimistic about the future. Most people are genuine. No one would choose the plight the Syrian refugees are facing. We must hope for a better future, if not for ourselves, then for future generations.
Pessimism, lack of hope and despair are extremely dangerous, as they naturally cause people to feel helpless, often leading them to extreme acts of violence. Each day as the Earth revolves around the sun; it faces away submerging into a cold sea of darkness, only to resurface into the warm light. This is a constant reminder that amid the darkness of despair, there is always hope of better days to come.
Despite those who hate, the people of Canada will stand strong together in offering a gracious hand of humanity as they always have done.