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February 24, 2006 On February 23, Muhammad Elmasry of the Canadian Islamic Congress and Syed Soharwardy of the Islamic Supreme Council of Canada told the Toronto Star they want to see changes in Canada's Hate Laws that would make it possible to jail writers who, in their opinion, insult or mock religious beliefs. Both Mohamed Elmasry and Syed Soharwardy are asking for changes in Canada's hate laws "so that offensive remarks or depictions of any religious figure are considered a crime." Their demand has its origins in Egypt, where Islamists led by Sheikh Mohammed Tantawi of al-Azhar University have been lobbying Muslim leaders to ask the United Nations to write a law that "condemns insulting any religion, including the Holy Scriptures and the prophets." The Muslim Canadian Congress questions the motives behind this initiative. Such a law can only be effective if it also includes a ban on accusations of blasphemy and apostasy by Muslim clerics; a tool used in many Muslim countries to silence political opponents. Today, writers in Iran, Jordan and Yemen, are among 11 Muslim journalists in five Muslim countries facing prosecution for printing some of the cartoons. Any law that makes it an offence to insult or mock religion, must also allow for a respectful and healthy critique of any religion, religious leader and even religious texts. Also, the law should ensure that such a critique does not lead to imprisonment or death threats by governments, religious institutions or religious vigilantes. Niaz Salimi, President, |
Canada's Fallen
Soldiers MCC grieves the loss of our sons and daughters in Afghanistan, who died serving Canada in the line of duty. We offer our condolences to the families of the dead soldiers and hope to see all our troops back home safely.
Earthquake!
The MCC asks that you give till it hurts to organizations like the IDRF
Who speaks
Views and opinions on who, if anyone, is the real voice for Canada's Muslims
Sharia courts
The MCC campaign against religious tribunals for family law
Equal Marriages
The MCC takes a stand for justice, equality and human rights
War on Terror
The MCC condemns both terrorism and the "war on terror"
Palestine
The MCC does more than just talk the talk. Read about walking the walk in Hebron
Islam
Speaking for Muslims: A new group stirs the pot with its progressive ideas |
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