In a first, Canada has appointed the first Special Representative to combat Islamophobia Thursday. Amira Elghawaby is a former journalist, a founding member of the Canadian Anti-Hate Network, and was instrumental in creating the National Council of Indian Muslims, the largest Muslim organization in the country.
“As Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia, Ms. Elghawaby will serve as a champion, advisor, expert, and representative to support and enhance the federal government’s efforts in the fight against Islamophobia, systemic racism, racial discrimination, and religious intolerance. She will promote awareness of the diverse and intersectional identities of Muslims in Canada and provide advice to the government in the development of inclusive policies, legislative proposals, programs, and regulations that reflect their realities. In so doing, she will also help advance respect for equity, inclusion, and diversity and shine a light on the important contributions of Muslims to our country’s national fabric,” read the press release released by the PM office.
She has an extensive career supporting measures to counter hate crimes and promote inclusivity in society.
Islamophobia and discrimination are unacceptable. Period. Today, we’re appointing @AmiraElghawaby as Canada’s first Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia to help end this hate – and to build a better future for everyone. More here: https://t.co/revaJmTvAa
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 26, 2023
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“Diversity truly is one of Canada’s greatest strengths, but for many Muslims, Islamophobia is all too familiar. We need to change that. No one in our country should experience hatred because of their faith. The appointment of Ms. Elghawaby as Canada’s first Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia is an important step in our fight against Islamophobia and hatred in all its forms,” said Canadian PM Trudeau.
“In Canada, diversity is a fact, but inclusion is a choice. Our government has listened to the lived experiences of Muslim communities from across the country and is taking action in the fight against Islamophobia. As Canada’s first Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia, Amira Elghawaby will use her vast knowledge and experience as a human rights advocate to help guide and reinforce Canada’s efforts in addressing anti-Muslim hatred, systemic racism, racial discrimination, and religious intolerance,” Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion.