Canada’s anti-Islamophobia adviser calls for end to 'stigmatization of Canadian Muslims and Palestinians'

By Merve Aydogan

HAMILTON, Canada (AA) - Canada's Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia denounced the recent vandalizing of the Canadian Institute of Islamic Civilization-MAC center in downtown Montreal.

"Vandalism fueled by hate targeting community centres, public spaces and places of worship sends a frightening message that threatens our collective safety and well-being," Amira Elghawaby said Wednesday on X.

Saying that the vandalism in Montreal reflects "the intersection of anti-Palestinian racism and Islamophobia," she said it "reminds us why it has been critical to name APR (Anti-Palestinian Racism) and combat it."

"And how all Canadians of conscience can stand together in solidarity—because our rights and freedoms are at stake," Elghawaby said, stressing that "the ongoing stigmatization of Canadian Muslims and Palestinians must stop."

Meanwhile, the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) also reported a "spike" in anti-Palestinian racism incidents across Canada.

"Needless to say, it is deeply disheartening and disappointing to witness yet another Muslim centre be attacked," the group said on X, noting that "it is time for real change."