Canada Celebrates 'Canadian Islamic History Month' with Controversial 'Islamophobia Czar' Amira Elghawaby, Welcomes Growing Muslim Population

Statement from Minister Kamal Khera on the occasion of “Canadian Islamic History Month“

It marks the beginning of Canadian Islamic History Month, and for the very first time, we celebrate it with the support of Amira Elghawaby, Canada’s first Special Representative for Combatting Islamophobia.

Muslim communities have played a significant role in shaping the Canada we know today. In the first official census in 1871, there were only a few Muslim individuals in the country. Today, nearly 5% of the Canadian population is Muslim, representing a wide range of backgrounds and originating from all continents.

Diversity is a reality; inclusion is a choice, and the combination of both is our country’s greatest strength.

I wish you a wonderful Canadian Islamic History Month!

Government of Canada

It’s the beginning of Canadian Islamic History Month today, which is the perfect opportunity to learn about Muslim communities, recognize the significant role they play in Canadian society and highlight their extraordinary contributions!

➡️ https://t.co/Ke8PqtkdiE pic.twitter.com/bzXH7tKAHJ

— Canadian Heritage (@CdnHeritage) October 1, 2023

Amira Elghawaby: Controversial Figure

Amira Elghawaby, a former employee of the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), previously known as the radical Canadian Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CAN, CAIR.CAN, CAIR-Canada), and now appointed as Canada’s first ‘Islamophobia Czar,’ has attracted significant attention within Canadian political and social circles, but not without controversy. Elghawaby, born to Egyptian parents with her father being an engineer, immigrated to Canada at the age of two months with her mother and also spent four of her early years in Bandung, Indonesia. Her radical views, associations, and provocative statements have made her a highly divisive figure, earning her support among left-wing activists and Islamic supremacists.

Controversy 1: Labeling Quebecers as “Islamophobes”

One of the most alarming controversies surrounding Elghawaby arises from her sweeping generalization of all Quebecers as “Islamophobes.” Such statements are false, prejudicial, and exploited by radicals to promote sharia. Those who express concerns about Islamophobia appear to disregard the link between Jihad and the fear of Islam experienced by its victims. Their proposed solution is to change the attitude of the victims rather than address the behavior of terrorists.

“Islamophobia” is a weaponized made-up term aimed at discrediting those who question or critique Islam, insinuating an irrational fear. However, it represents a legitimate concern rooted in the examination of Islamic practices and beliefs. Unlike genuine religious tolerance, it does not involve fearing Islam’s differences but rather focuses on understanding its potentially dangerous and harmful impact on society. This term is used to suppress critical inquiry and disregards valid concerns about intolerance, which can often be deadly within Islam.

Controversy 2: Opposition to the Monarchy

Elghawaby’s fervent opposition to the monarchy, which she labeled as “one of the most powerful symbols of racial oppression,” goes beyond legitimate criticism. Her call for the removal of Queen Elizabeth II as head of state has ignited resentment and is seen as a radical position that neglects the historical context and complexities of the monarchy in Canada.

Controversy 3: Critique of Canada Day Celebrations

Elghawaby’s sharp critique of Canada Day celebrations, portraying them as rooted in “dominant, European, Judeo-Christian storytelling,” raises concerns about her challenging the foundational values and narratives of Canadian identity. While diverse perspectives on Canada’s history are valid, her portrayal of Canada Day as a celebration of falsehoods has drawn criticism and concern over her prejudices. Furthermore, many believe it is an attempt at negating foundational Canadian identity.

lghawaby’s sharp critique of Canada Day celebrations, in which she portrays them as rooted in ‘dominant, European, Judeo-Christian storytelling,’ raises concerns about her challenging the foundational values and narratives of Canadian identity. While diverse perspectives on Canada’s history are valid, her characterization of Canada Day as a celebration of falsehoods has garnered criticism and sparked concerns regarding her biases. Furthermore, many believe it constitutes an attempt to undermine the core aspects of Canadian identity.”

Controversy 4: Advocating for Police Disarmament

Elghawaby’s call for disarming the police has sparked intense debate about the role of law enforcement in society. Her question regarding whether every police officer should carry a weapon raises concerns about public safety and the potentially deadly consequences of such a move.

Controversy 5: Accusations Against the Quebec Government

Elghawaby’s accusations of the Quebec government being a “bully” that “legitimized the violation of human rights” are viewed as inflammatory and dismissive of the complexities involved in policy decisions. Her statements have heightened tensions between various political entities and communities within Quebec.

Controversy 6: Proposing Federal Internet Content Regulation

Elghawaby’s call for federal regulation of legal internet content has raised concerns about potential infringements on freedom of speech. Critics argue that her proposal may lead to government overreach and censorship, undermining the principles of free expression.

Controversy 7: Criticizing Conservatives and Stephen Harper

Elghawaby’s critical stance towards the Conservative Party and former Prime Minister Stephen Harper reflects her alignment with left-wing politics. While political activism is common, her assertion that Harper’s policies disproportionately affected Canadian Muslims has been met with outrage and disagreement.

Controversy 8: Appointment as Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia

Amira Elghawaby’s appointment as the Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau ignited a firestorm of criticism and concern. Many question whether her past statements and affiliations align with the responsibilities of the role and whether her appointment serves to promote a balanced and inclusive approach to addressing Islamophobia.

In addition to these controversies, concerns have been raised by The Lawfare Project, a legal think tank based in New York City, about Elghawaby’s involvement in events and her association with NCCM/CAIR.CAN. They have raised questions about NCCM/CAIR.CAN’s history and affiliations, as well as Elghawaby’s role within the organization. These concerns have led to further scrutiny of Elghawaby’s credibility and the potential harm to the reputation of organizations and individuals involved in events featuring her.

Elghawaby’s radical views and provocative statements have made her a figure of contention and concern within Canadian society. While she may be considered prominent among left-wing and Islamic supremacist circles, her positions and actions have been met with widespread criticism for their potential to exacerbate divisions, undermine established democratic norms, and challenge the principles of free expression and dialogue. These controversies serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible public discourse and critical evaluation of public figures’ statements and affiliations.