42nd Parliament, House of Commons Chamber in session

Why Is No One Talking About Canada Passing This Anti-Islamophobia Motion?

On Oct. 26, the Canadian Parliament passed an anti-Islamophobia motion in light of recent attacks on mosques and Muslim communities in Canada and around the world. Although not a law, the motion condemns all forms of Islamophobia. The motion was adopted after 70,000 Canadian citizens signed an online petition condemning Islamophobia. The petition was launched on June 8, 2016, and was closed for signature on Oct. 6, 2016, the Daily Sabah reports.

“We, the undersigned, Citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to join us in recognizing that extremist individuals do not represent the religion of Islam, and in condemning all forms of Islamophobia,” the petition read.

By not showing coverage of this, it demonstrates a lack of sympathy and solidarity to the Muslim-Canadian community, and defeats the purpose of the motion.

There’s just one problem: Mainstream media hasn’t covered it. At all.

The problem with the lack of media coverage on the motion is that Canada is not spreading the Parliament’s condemnation of Islamophobia. As a result, the Muslim community in Canada is denied recognition of their rights, and continues to be further marginalized. By not showing coverage of this, it demonstrates a lack of sympathy and solidarity to the Muslim-Canadian community, and defeats the purpose of the motion.

What is the point of passing an anti-Islamophobic motion when anti-Islamophobia present in media prevents this message from spreading to the public?

Canada is recognized as one of the most tolerant countries in the world. As much of a milestone it is for this motion to be passed, we need to do better as the public to spread ideals of tolerance and acceptance.