[By Dr. Mohamed Elmasry, The Globe And Mail, April 15, 2004]

Last September, British Muslims made political history.

In the riding of Brent, part of North West London, Muslims outraged by the Labour government's support for the American-led war on Iraq, mobilized the 6,000 Muslim voters to transfer their traditionally Labour votes to the anti-war Liberal Democrats.

The result: this traditional Labour stronghold was not only lost -- the party's first bye-election loss in 15 years -- but was taken by 29-year- old Liberal Democrat novice, Sarah Teather, who became the UK’s youngest Member of Parliament. British newspapers described the result as an electoral disaster. The Guardian called the implications “catastrophic” for Prime Minister Tony Blair.

By contrast, French Muslims -- who comprise 10 percent of that country's population, compared to about only four percent in the UK -- are not politically integrated in their home country. They usually know more about the politics, political parties and politicians in their North African countries of origin than about those in France. It's no wonder the French political parties paid them zero attention when the government passed a law banning the wearing of Muslim womens' headscarves (hijabs) in public institutions, including schools.

The ghetto mentality, be it geographical, social, or political, was never part of early Muslim history. Traditionally, Muslims integrated well into almost every country where they settled. They married into local populations, befriended citizens and indigenous peoples, and collectively proved themselves an asset to local cultural development, whether in social, spiritual, political, or economic matters. The evidence is there, throughout the societies of Spain, Indonesia, Malaysia, Iran, Egypt, India, and in northern and sub-Saharan Africa. In sum, they gave more than they took.

Today, democracy is not just about numbers; it is about commitment. Any politician would rather have 10 committed, informed voters, than 100 uncommitted and uninformed constituents. Canadian Muslims today number more than 700,000 coast to coast. This makes us the largest non-Christian religious group in the country. More than half of us were born here, the rest are immigrants from more than 50 countries and five continents -- Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas. No other religious minority can claim such wide cultural and and ethnic diversity as Canadian Muslims.

Yet Muslims have not been fully involved in the political life of this country and are thus contributing to what has been called Canada’s growing "democratic deficit." And this must change, for the good of all Canadians and for the good of the country.

During the 1950s, the number of eligible voters who cast their ballots was consistently in the the 80% range. But this ratio had dropped to about 61% in the last federal election of 2000; and the percentage of eligible Canadian Muslims who voted came in even lower at 49%.

I believe strongly that Canadians must do their “homework” on key election issues, party policies, and the track records of candidates, before the coming federal election, in order to be better prepared to vote for whomever they think will serve in the best interests of all citizens. And Canadian Muslims must set the example, by adopting the practice of multi-issue, informed, committed voting.

It does our country no good if Canadians are moved to vote only by single issues, whatever they might be: the recent sponsorship scandal, abortion, gay marriage, Israel, immigration, etc.

Canadian Muslims’ top national issues include expected ones, such as immigration, the economy and civil liberties. But a recently researched list by the Canadian Islamic Congress also included non-traditional ones like the environment, defense, and the rights of our First Nations and Aboriginal peoples. And on international issues, the CIC's top ten list included: the future of the UN, the American "war on terror," and the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands. The CIC's research found that most Canadian Muslims hold left-of-centre views on the majority of leading national and global issues the organization identified in its latest study.

That is why many Canadian Muslims are concerned about the Liberal party's shift to the right and very concerned that the Conservative party is becoming a neo-con organization whose values are too far to the right for most Canadians. As well, we are very concerned that the Liberal party has allowed a group of MPs (including some ministers) to form an official lobby group for a foreign country (Liberal Parliamentarians for Israel) as a recognized Caucus committee.

For Canadian Muslims, informed voting is a religious as well as civic duty; it is like giving your testimony. According to the Qur’an (2:140 and 2: 283), giving testimony when asked is a religious obligation.

Canadian Muslims today hold a potential swing vote ranging from 1.8% to 13.5% in more than 100 ridings. Of these ridings 55 are in Ontario, 21 in Quebec, 13 in BC, 10 in Alberta, 1 in Nova Scotia and 1 in Manitoba. The top 31 ridings where Muslims have a significant swing vote are: 20 in the Greater Toronto Area, 6 in Montréal, 3 in Ottawa, one each in Calgary and Windsor.

Since the last federal election, Canadian Muslims have made important strides to increase their political profile; for the coming election, two candidates are running for each of the Liberal, NDP and CPC parties.

The influence of Canada’s Muslims can only increase as the community continues to grow. Muslims double in numbers every ten years or so, for we are a young community; the average age of Canadian Muslims in 2001 was 29 years old, while that of the general population was 37, indicating that the birth rate among Muslims is significantly higher.

Can Canadian Muslims reduce this country's democratic deficit in the coming federal election by becoming multi-issue, informed voters? I hope and pray, for the sake of all Canadians, that this will be so.

(Dr. Mohamed Elmasry, a professor of computer engineering at the University of Waterloo, is national president of the Canadian Islamic Congress. CIC’s research report, Election 2004: Towards Informed and Committed Voting, is available at the CIC website. The above article is also available online here )

A national Muslim organization has issued a pre-election report card that grades federal MPs on 20 national and international issues, including health care, national defence, relations with the United States and the Middle East.

All NDP members received As, while grades were mixed among Liberals, and all but six Conservative members earned Fs. With Canada's 700,000 Muslims making up as much as 13 per cent of the population in some ridings, it's possible Muslim voters could affect election outcomes, says Mohamed Elmasry, president of the Canadian Islamic Congress. Muslims could make the most impact in 31 ridings, including 20 in the Greater Toronto Area, he said.

Some GTA Liberal MPs were shocked at their failing grades. "They've made a mistake," said Dennis Mills (Toronto-Danforth), whose riding is about 5 per cent Muslim, according to 2001 census figures. "I've done so much. I'm not concerned about it because it's inconsistent with the reaction I receive and letters I receive from people in my riding. My team cannot work any harder for the Muslim community than we currently do."

The key issues identified by the Congress, which says it represents 70 per cent of Canadian Muslims, include military spending and relations with the United States. On defence, the Congress said every dollar devoted to maintaining Canada's outdated war technology is wasted and efforts should be directed instead to making peace.

On relations with the United States, the Congress said Canada should reduce dependence on trade with the U.S. and foster other trading partners, including those in the Muslim world.

On America's war on terror, the Congress said any people living under occupation have the right, as recognized by the United Nations, to "liberate their lands by various means, including the use of armed resistance."

Scarborough East Liberal MP John McKay said the Canadian Islamic Congress should have interviewed him before passing judgment and giving him an F. "It seems a fundamental to me that you should talk to somebody before you pass or fail him. I find it bizarre." He added that he has a staff member who is an Afghan-Muslim working on immigration problems in his riding.

Liberal Carolyn Parrish received an A. She said the Muslim vote clearly tilted the nomination race in her favour in Mississauga-Erindale. "Many Muslim leaders came pouring in and said 'we like your stand on the war on terror'." Of 5,100 new Liberal memberships in the riding, 3,500 were Muslims, she said.

Canadian Islamic Congress leaders are urging Muslims to become politically active and most of all to vote, to become informed and committed electors. Religious leaders will be delivering the same message at mosques across Canada during Friday services. "It's a religious duty, as well as a political, citizenship duty," Elmasry said.

Elmasry also said that although Muslims have traditionally voted Liberal, the Congress found the party's policies are increasingly shifting to the right and this is out of step with voters. But he said the Congress is not endorsing any party, nor directing Muslims to vote for particular candidates -- although the views of the NDP are closest to those of his organization, with a nearly 100 per cent match.

While there are areas, including same-sex marriage, where the NDP and the IslamicCongress diverge, Elmasry said he did not want to focus on a single issue. However, in its report, the CIC supports the "traditional family, as a social unit" and "cornerstone of society."

(The above article was slightly edited for this issue of the CIC's Election 2004; its material content is unaltered.)

At a well-attended press conference held this morning (April 13, 2004) at a downtown Toronto hotel, the Canadian Islamic Congress exhorted all Muslims to follow the teachings of the Qur’an and involve themselves in this country’s electoral process. “For Canadian Muslims, informed voting is a religious, as well as a civic duty,” said CIC national president Dr. Mohamed Elmasry. “It is like giving your testimony. According to the Qur’an, giving testimony when asked is a religious duty.”

To facilitate this, the CIC released a comprehensive report, titled “Election 2004: Towards Informed and Committed Voting.” It examines the performance of individual Members of Parliament in regard to twenty key issues, both national and international. (Health care, the economy, civil liberties, law, order and justice, defence, immigration and multi- culturalism, are some of the national issues examined, while U.S.-Canada relations, the Pacific Rim nations, and the Israeli Occupation represent some of the international subjects covered.)

The in-depth report was prepared by fifteen individuals over the past year on behalf on the CIC, and has already received praise from Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

In his introductory remarks, Dr. Mohammed Elmasry spoke regretfully of the diminishing participation of eligible voters, which reached over 80% in the 1950s, and has now shrunk to an alarming 61%. Muslim voters had an even worse showing, at approximately 49%. Asked the reason for this lack of participation, CIC national vice-president, Mrs.Wahida Valiante, explained that free political discourse is new to much of the Muslim community, and that people may be loath to express their opinions and to raise issues. This can result in missed opportunities for the more than 700,000 Canadian Muslims, who hold a swing vote ranging from 1.8% to 13.5% in 101 ridings. The CIC did not endorse any particular party: the NDP collectively received the highest rating, followed by the Liberals.

Dr. Elmasry stated that although it has been a tradition among immigrants to vote Liberal in the past, the gradual swing of that party to the right, as well as recent corruption charges, are troublesome. He see the “new” Conservative Party of Canada as extreme in its right wing, neo-con views. He also warned against the one-issue voting stance which focuses exclusively on wedge concerns such as gay marriage or foreign affairs, effectively throwing away one’s ballot.

Imam Adam Esse and Imam Hamid Slimi of the Coalition of Muslim Organizations spoke glowingly of the report, and of its potential to educate and enhance the awareness of Canadian Muslims. They will join with Dr. Elmasry in speaking at mosques around the country to get the message out, and also help to organize all-candidates meetings in as many communities as possible.

“I am a professor,” said Dr. Elmasry, “and I want people to do their homework!” He added this quote from the Qur’an, while chiding Muslims for looking east and neglecting their home country: “ ‘To Allah belongs the east and the west.’ We must think first as citizens of this country.”

(The above article was slightly edited for this issue of the CIC's Election 2004; its material content is unaltered.)

[Excerpted]

Canada's growing Muslim population is capable of swinging the federal vote in three Ottawa ridings and in other ridings across the country, says the Canadian Islamic Congress.

Muslims make up 10.3 per cent of Ottawa South's population, 7.2 per cent of Ottawa West-Nepean, and 6.3 per cent of Ottawa-Vanier, according to statistics from the 2001 census. The Islamic Congress says those ridings and 28 others in the Greater Toronto Area, Montreal, Calgary, and Windsor all have a significant number of Muslims who could influence the upcoming vote.

Muslims make up from 1.8 per cent to 13.5 per cent of the population in 101 of Canada's current 301 ridings.

In a research report, which the Congress believes is the first of its kind, the voting records of all 301 MPs are graded on 20 national and international issues over the past four years. All 14 New Democrats got an A, as did 23 of the 33 Bloc Quebecois, 42 of the 172 Liberals, and six of the 75 Conservative MPs. Prime Minister Paul Martin was one of the few Liberals with an A, while Opposition leader Stephen Harper got an F.

Mohamed Elmasry, national president of the Islamic Congress, said Canadian Muslims have traditionally voted Liberal, but the party has shifted to the right, and Muslims are concerned that a pro-Israel advocacy group within the Liberal caucus is influencing government policy toward the Middle East. He said the Liberal Parliamentarians for Israel group includes Justice Minister Irwin Cotler, Human Resources Minister Joe Volpe, and Public Health Minister Carolyn Bennett.

"We are worried that Canada will take Israel's position and won't advance the cause of peace with justice," said Elmasry. "This is wrong, for a political party to have an advocacy committee for a foreign country within [its official structure]."

The Islamic Congress leader said it is a religious and civic duty for Muslims to vote. Just 49 per cent of Muslims, and 61 per cent of all Canadians, voted in the 2000 election. "We want to kick-start a debate, and we want to be a part of the solution, not part of the problem," Elmasry said.

The Congress claims to represent 70 per cent of the Canadian Muslim population, both Sunni and Shia. It says the Muslim population has grown from 579,000 in 2001 to 700,000 today. The Ottawa Mosque and other major mosques are members of the Congress.

In a statement of its positions on national and international issues, on which it graded MPs, the Islamic Congress backed the traditional family as the backbone of society, and [also supported] Canada's peacekeeping role, but took more controversial stands too, including the following:

• "Every dollar and every human intellect that Canada devotes to the maintenance of our outdated war technology is effectively lost and wasted, as we will never be able to duplicate the military profile of the American defence program."




• "We believe the people of Kashmir, Chechnya and Palestine have a right to self-determination and statehood. We applaud Canada's stand on the recognition of Palestinian rights."




• "We believe the occupation by Israel of parts of southern Lebanon, the Golan Heights, Gaza and the West Bank, including Jerusalem, is a violation of international law and is seriously undermining world peace. We support Canada's traditional policy, based on UN Security Council resolutions ... Current Canadian policy toward the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, however, is more of the type [that suggests] Israel can do no wrong, and thus it is less balanced than under previous administrations."

The Congress also says Canada could reap economic benefits from trade with the world's 1.2 billion Muslims, due to our ethical and balanced approach to world problems.

The complete report is available on the Internet at www.canadianislamiccongress.com/elections04.php .

(The above excerpted article was slightly edited for this issue of the CIC's Election 2004; its material content is unaltered.)

In a media release of Thursday (April 22), Calgary East Conservative MP Deepak Obhrai (who has received an F) has called CIC's report, Election 2004: Towards Committed Voting – Grading MPs, "divisive" and predicted it would further widen existing gaps among Canada's Muslim communities, as well as alienating Muslims from other ethnic and religious groups. Mr. Obhrai, who stressed that he personally has "worked extensively with the Muslim community, both in my community and in other parts of Canada," charged that the CIC's agenda is "narrow... and does a disservice to the vast majority of the Muslim community."
There are more than 5,000 Muslim constituents in Mr. Obhrai's riding.
CIC national president, Dr. Mohamed Elmasry, issued a prompt response to Mr. Obhrai's concerns. It said, in part:
"Mr. Obhrai is fully entitled to his views. While we regret that he has expressed public disappointment in CIC's research findings, we can only reiterate that the methodology used in grading MPs is clearly and fairly stated in our research report.... Far from being a "divisive" instrument, our report promotes enquiry and leaves the final decision up to individual constituents in each riding. We have always encouraged them to become informed, committed, and multi-issue voters... The debate arising from this report will help to reduce Canada's democratic deficit."

The Canadian Islamic Congress has given passing grades to four local Liberals who are seeking re-election in the June 28 federal election.
The congress graded federal politicians across the country in a report it issued in April.
Its researchers reviewed the voting records of MPs for the past four years on 20 issues identified as being important to the congress.
"We don't endorse candidates," said Wahida Valiante, vice-president of the congress. "We do not endorse any party."
The congress focuses on educating the community on issues and encourages Muslims to vote, Valiante said.
"Many of (the issues) are important to all of us," she said. "We're not a one-issue organization."
Reducing child poverty and increasing long-term affordable housing are two of the issues concerning Muslim Canadians, she said.
The congress also favours government policies that would make it easier for qualified immigrants to be able to work in their professions.
"We look at equality of health care. We don't believe in a two-tier system. This is the one issue where we should be very actively involved," she said.
The percentage of Muslims who vote remains lower than the percentage of all Canadians who vote, but it's increasing, Valiante said.
When they have voted, Muslims have traditionally supported Liberal candidates, she added.
But voters need to look at the track records of candidates rather than give uncritical support, she said,
The question of redefining marriage -- a major issue for many faith groups during this election -- wasn't considered when the congress graded the performance of MPs.
"According to Islam . . . a man and a woman is an accepted normal relationship - that's it," Valiante said.
"Beyond that, it is up to the individual to go and vote (for) who they think they should. We are not actively going to promote one or the other."
Many Canadian Alliance and Progressive Conservative MPs received failing grades from the congress, even though they share its view on marriage. And it gave A grades to all New Democratic Party MPs, most of whom support same-sex marriage.
MPs whose votes agreed with the position of the congress on 15 or more issues received an A. Those who agreed on 11 to 14 votes received a B.
Those who agreed on 10 or fewer issues got an F.
Andrew Telegdi (Kitchener-Waterloo), Karen Redman (Kitchener Centre) and Janko Peric (Cambridge) all received an A.
Lynn Myers, of the former Waterloo-Wellington riding, scored 13 out of 20 and received a B.

mpetricevic@therecord.com

Canadian Muslims have a bigger stake in the outcome of this federal election than ever before. Like most Canadians, Canadian Muslims care about debated election issues like health care, having a balanced budget and defense spending.
But top issues on the mind of Canadian Muslims which have not been so far debated are the issues of reviewing the anti-terrorist law C-36, how to stop the deterioration of civil liberties in this country and how to safeguard Canadians, especially Canadian Muslims, against racial profiling.
Canadian Muslims, many of them born in countries where democracy is non- existent, are already adding vigor and vitality to this election by debating with passion the issues and getting ready to vote on June 28.
There are ten Muslims running for three political parties. Gone are the days when political parties thought it too risky to let Muslims run as members of parliament in fear that Canadians would not vote for "Mohamed" or "Leyla".
I have been traveling the country in a religious, rather than a political campaign style, to encourage Muslims to vote. I argue effectively that "not voting is voting". I explain that it is a religious, as well as civic, duty to vote. I quote from the Qur'an and the teachings of the Prophet. And I give examples from early Muslim history.
But I worry that some Muslims, especially young Muslims, will not vote. Only some 25% of young Canadians voted in the last federal election.
And there is a very tiny minority of Muslims in this country who are advocating not voting to protest what they call "the illusion of democratic values."
One of them emailed me a three page letter following a Khotbah (Friday's sermon) I gave at a large Toronto mosque where I urged that we Muslims should be informed, committed and multi- issue voters, for the sake of our future and the future of our children.
"I bear-witness that you delivered your message: a misleading message of ignorance," he said, "God accepts the repentance of a Muslim so long as his soul remains in his body. It is never too late. I pray that you will sincerely consider (your) words and that you will think about the day when we all shall stand in front of Him alone. Do you want to be blamed by thousands for misleading them? God will not accept the excuse of ignorance."
I am told the man is born in this country and is in his thirties. This worries me a great deal. I believe he is well-intentioned, but misguided.
As a Canadian Muslim, it is my duty to refute his argument. I urge all Muslims to cast an informed vote - for the love of Canada, and the love of Islam.
The fact remains that you can vote, or you can forfeit your right to help shape your country. You can vote for politicians who will create the world of your dreams, or you can let others build your world.
Politicians are professionals. Some lie to advance their careers, but voters can root out the bad. Don't deny your vote to a deserving candidate who might lose.
There is no professional body to deny a license to politicians if they are guilty of professional misconduct.
They can exploit their position, or lie with charm and ease, and they can keep practicing their trade. They can switch parties, they can change policies, and they can switch ridings.
But eventually they have to answer to you. They are subject to your vote of confidence at election time. Match their words with their deeds. If their past actions inspire trust, give them your vote.
Vote and revolt - let that be your order of the day. Political reform is needed but it will come more assuredly if you vote on June 28. Then work hard for the next four years to reform our present political system.
Government affects the quality of the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the food you eat. Politicians are as powerful as we make them. They make our history. But "Politics," as Sir John Seeley wrote, "are vulgar when they are not liberalized by history, and history fades into mere literature when it loses sight of its relation to practical politics." Make history, vote.
The glory of democracy is the power of a single vote. Exercise your power for the glory of Canada.

[Dr. Mohamed Elmasry, a professor of computer engineering at the University of Waterloo is national president of the Canadian Islamic Congress. He can be reached at np@canadianislamiccongress.com]

You can vote, or you can forfeit your right to help shape our country. You can vote into power politicians who will create the world of your dreams, or you can let others build your world. Many factors need to be considered as you vote. But not voting is voting. So vote to the best of your ability.
To the romantic:
Consider voting as if commissioning an artist to paint a portrait of a beloved friend called Canada. You will be surprised how many applicants are not qualified artists. Since you will pay for the artist anyway, you might as well help make the selection. Vote for the best artist, and tell him or her what portrait of Canada you have in mind. As a Canadian, your signature will be posted on the painting, even if you do not vote.
To the pragmatic:
Government affects the quality of the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the food you eat. It affects every aspect of your life, even your sex life. Politicians are as powerful as we make them. They make our history. But "Politics," as Sir John Seeley wrote, "are vulgar when they are not liberalized by history, and history fades into mere literature when it loses sight of its relation to practical politics." Make history, vote.
To the cynical:
Politicians are professionals. Some lie to advance their careers, but voters can root out the bad. Don't deny your vote to a deserving candidate who might lose. There is no professional body to deny a license to politicians if they are guilty of professional misconduct. They can exploit their position, or lie with charm and ease, and they can keep practicing their trade. They can switch parties, they can change policies, and they can switch ridings. But eventually they have to answer to you. They are subject to your vote of confidence at election time. Match their words with their deeds. If their past actions inspire trust, give them your vote.
To the idealist:
You are not fully responsible for every bad thing that happens in this world. But you are responsible if you ignore your ability to prevent injustice when you can. Canada has moral suasion beyond its apparent size. In the international landscape, choose politicians whose moral principles will portray the Canada you want. Canada's potential actions as a peacemaker in the world's struggles could help liberate the powerless and the dispossessed. Elect politicians whose love of Canada is equal to your love of justice. Elect hope for those desperate people who today are intimidated by their poverty, diseases, or oppression, and strike out in helpless rage. Voting is a practical step to build a democratic world in Canada's image.
To the moralist:
The best way of assessing a politician's contribution to the good of Canada and the world, is to compare today's realities with that four years ago. Pass judgment, a fair judgment, on members of parliament running for reelection. You are sending a moral message. Vote accordingly.
To the religionist:
Thank God politicians make no contribution to the world of metaphysics, but some try. Some exploit their religious convictions for secular ends. If you do not agree, veto them. The founders religions were different from politicians. Usually, religious leaders develop a communal consciousness that seeks the good of humanity beyond national and political borders. But some do not. The separation of church and state is a well-founded, essential democratic tradition. Democracy means no single religious group has the right to claim a special relationship with government. Politicians must respect religious neutrality in foreign and domestic policies. Vote for equality and justice.
To the reformist:
Vote and revolt - let that be your order of the day. Political reform is needed but it will come faster if you vote on June 28. Then work hard for the next four years to reform our present political system.
To the dreamer:
Make Canada a leader advocating peace with justice in the world. It is possible before June 28 to give answers to vital questions enabling social justice to prevail. Search for answers in both your heart and mind. Then compare your answers to the claims and histories of your candidates and their parties. Consider their arguments, but judge their actions, and empower your answers with your vote. You have the upper hand. You can vote for a candidate's position or party affiliation. Or you can vote for the vision painted by your own answers.
The glory of democracy, is the power of a single vote. Exercise your power for the glory of Canada.

[Dr. Mohamed Elmasry, a professor of computer engineering at the University of Waterloo is national president of the Canadian Islamic Congress. He can be reached at np@canadianislamiccongress.com]

It's 6:20 p.m. and the chanting of the muezzin begins to echo through this sprawling west-end Toronto mosque as the faithful doff their shoes and prepare to worship.
It's the call to prayer, and during the month of June, increasingly a call to vote.
For the first time, the Canadian Islamic Congress has put out an urgent plea to mosques across the country to get Muslims to the polls on June 28.
Conceding that the level of political apathy among Canada's 650,000 Muslims is higher than the Canadian average, the organization has called for a target of more than 80 per cent of eligible Muslim voters to go to the polls on election day. In 2000, only about 40 per cent voted.
"It's a religious duty to vote," explains Imam Hamid Slimi, who leads the International Muslims Organization mosque in Rexdale, which normally attracts 2,500 people to its Friday prayer.
It's also been a difficult period for many Muslims. Feeling targeted and marginalized by controversial anti-terrorism legislation passed by the Liberal government, many are struggling with their current political options.
Irfan Syed, president of the Canadian Muslim Lawyers' Association, said that while Muslims have traditionally cast their ballots for the Liberals, it should no longer be an automatic vote.
"Muslims need to reflect on what politicians have done for them," the Scarborough resident said. "Some people in the community are saying 'Wait a minute, how come nobody spoke up about this.' " The political fallout after Sept. 11, 2001, should be fresh in people's minds, he added. "This issue helped create that awareness and consciousness. If you have an opportunity to do something, you shouldn't just let things happen to you."
He said political parties can't ignore the potential clout and needs of the Muslim community, especially in large urban centres such as Toronto where more than 5 per cent of residents are Muslim, the largest religious bloc after Christians.
"Politicians count numbers," he said. "Before, the numbers weren't significant."
Roy Cullen, the Liberal incumbent in Etobicoke North, understands it. Ten of his election signs line the front lawn of Mr. Slimi's mosque. According to census data, this area has the third largest Muslim population in the country. Don Valley West and Don Valley East are first and second, respectively.
Mr. Slimi said that, while the mosque can't endorse a candidate, he wouldn't personally support the Conservative Party.
"I'm a religious person," he said. "The only way to keep Canada's values, it has to stay secular. The day Canada becomes religious we have to pack and leave for somewhere else."
Worshippers at the mosque seem torn about whom to support on election day.
"Before Sept. 11, we just didn't care. It wasn't our problem," said Farad Dauri. "But now we have to think of ourselves as a people, a group. We can't just close our eyes.
"I have no idea who I'm going to vote for," he added.
The mosque's caretaker, Rafeek Khan, agrees that voting is more important than ever, but he hopes the community doesn't split its vote.
"Sure the Liberals didn't stand up for us," he said. "But they are the only party that will protect us in the end."
Mohamed Elmasry, national president of the CIC, is confident the group's message is getting out. The congress has also released a research paper grading federal candidates on their positions on national and international policies. Most of the Conservatives received Fs, but so did some Liberals, including Scarborough-Guildwood's John McKay and Scarborough Southwest's Tom Wappel.
"Our policies is left of centre," he explained.
Stephen Clarkson, a University of Toronto political science professor, isn't surprised by Muslim community's move to organize politically.
"If you are persecuted, you develop a consciousness of who you are," he said, adding that this development follows a pattern of what happens when large immigrant bodies begin "installing themselves into Canada."
"They begin to flex their muscles once they get established a bit," he said.
Prof. Clarkson, however, doesn't expect the community to make much of a political difference this time around.
"It takes several elections," he said. "You have to prove that you can knock on doors, you've got votes, you've got power."

TORONTO/CAIRO, June 5 (IslamOnline.net) - A Canadian Muslim organization has urged community members to cast their ballots in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
The Canadian Islamic Congress (CIC) issued an urgent plea to mosques to encourage the country's 650,000 Muslims to vote in the June 28 elections, reported the Globe and Mail newspaper on Friday, June 5.
The group regretted that in the 2000 elections only 40 per cent of eligible Muslims had cast votes, seeking a turnout of 80 per cent in this elections.
The CIC issued in April a research entitled "Election 2004: Towards Informed and Committed Voting".
It ranks federal candidates on their positions on national and international policies, and gives Canadian Muslims "something to think about and act upon in the coming federal election".
The CIC drive is backed by other initiatives from Islamic magazines and other Arab and Islamic organizations.
"It's a religious duty to vote," said Imam Hamid Slimi, who leads the International Muslims Organization mosque in Rexdale, which normally attracts 2,500 people to its Friday prayer.
Hard Time
Muslim leaders in the Canadian society recognize that the world had significantly changed since the 9/11 attacks and Muslims have to change to cope with those changes.
Many of the community members have faced a hard time since the terror attacks, with rising feelings of being targeted and marginalized by controversial anti-terrorism legislation passed by the Liberal government.
"We now feel obliged to move for defending our rights here. Things began to change as the consequences of 9/11 are still fresh in our minds," Hoda Hayyani, a Toronto resident, told IslamOnline.net over phone.
"Feeling their votes are effective, Muslims began to fully realize the possible clout they could have," she added, believing that Muslims will respond to the CIC call.
Hayyani cited a 2003 national census showing Islam as the number one non- Christian faith in Quebec and Canada as a whole.
No For Labor
Irfan Syed, the president of the Canadian Muslim Lawyers' Association, agreed that Muslims should no longer automatically cast their ballots for the Liberals.
"Muslims need to reflect on what politicians have done for them," the Scarborough resident told the Globe and Mail.
"Some people in the community are saying 'Wait a minute, how come nobody spoke up about this.'"
"This issue helped create that awareness and consciousness. If you have an opportunity to do something, you shouldn't just let things happen to you."
Syed said political parties can not ignore the potential clout and needs of the Muslim community, especially in large urban centers such as Toronto where more than 5 per cent of residents are Muslim, the largest religious bloc after Christians.
"Politicians count numbers," he said. "Before, the numbers weren't significant."
The Canadian paper said Roy Cullen, the Liberal incumbent in Etobicoke North, understands it.
Ten of his election signs line the front lawn of Slimi's mosque, which is located in an area which census data said has the third largest Muslim population in the country.
Flexing Muscles
Stephen Clarkson, a University of Toronto political science professor, said he was not surprised by Muslims' attempt to get politically organized.
"If you are persecuted, you develop a consciousness of who you are," he told the Globe and Mail.
Clarkson argued this development follows a pattern of what happens when large immigrant bodies begin "to flex their muscles once they get established a bit."
Monia Mazigh, a prominent Canadian Muslim, will run the elections in Ottawa South riding, a traditionally Liberal riding.
Last October, Shafiq Qaadri, a Canadian Muslim, won parliamentary elections in Ontario, the second largest province of Canada.

OTTAWA, June 7 -- The leaders of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada today called on Conservative Party leader Stephen Harper to explain his position on the writings and statements of Tom Flanagan, Senior Advisor to the Conservative Leader and National Campaign Chair for the Conservative Party.
Métis National Council President Clément Chartier, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine, and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami President Jose Kusugak are all calling on the Conservative leader to provide a clear answer as to whether or not he agrees with the antiquated, ill-informed, regressive and offensive writings of Mr. Flanagan in articles and books such as First Nations? Second Thoughts.
"The reality is that if Flanagan was making these kinds of statements about any other group in Canada -- Jewish, Italian, French -- he would not be given a senior role in a major national party and would more likely be exiled into the political wilderness," said AFN National Chief Fontaine. "So I stand today with my fellow leaders to ask the Conservative Party leader two straightforward questions: Does the Conservative leader support or disavow the writings and positions of Tom Flanagan on Aboriginal peoples? And what role, if any, will Flanagan play in the Conservative Party's Aboriginal policy? These are legitimate questions and the answers will illuminate how the Conservative Party plans to deal with our people and our issues."
Flanagan has spoken against Canada's Constitution as it relates to Aboriginal peoples and rights and has argued that the best approach for Aboriginal policy is full and outright assimilation. MNC President Chartier notes that Flanagan has focused considerable energy insulting the Métis, calling them an "economically marginal, incohesive assortment of heterogeneous groups," and has written about strategies to "minimize the damage caused by the thoughtless elevation of the Métis to the status of a distinct 'aboriginal' people."
"The fact that Mr. Flanagan is in a position of power to influence the Conservative Party is of real concern to our people and should be to all Canadians," said MNC President Chartier. "Flanagan's position on Aboriginal peoples is one of denial, assimilation and non-recognition of our Constitutional rights. His positions are counter to many Supreme Court of Canada decisions, including the landmark Powley decision which affirmed Métis have existing Aboriginal rights protected by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. We are calling on Mr. Harper to denounce Mr. Flanagan's insulting and outdated positions."
ITK President Kusugak stated: "We are asking these questions because we are not going to pre-judge the Conservative leader, his party or his platform. The Progressive Conservative government of Brian Mulroney did some positive things for the Inuit such as initiating the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, settling the Nunavut land claim and creating the territory of Nunavut. We want to know if the new Conservative Party will recognize the legal and constitutional rights of Aboriginal peoples, or will it take the narrow, assimilationist 'melting pot' approach that Flanagan advocates? We are asking early in the campaign so that the Conservative leader has plenty of time to respond and we will then be better able to decide how to cast our votes on June 28th."
The Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami is the national organization representing Inuit in Canada. The Métis National Council is the national organization representing the Métis Nation. The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.
EXCERPTS FROM TOM FLANAGAN'S BOOK FIRST NATIONS?, SECOND THOUGHTS (JUNE 2000)
"European Civilization was several thousand years more advanced than the aboriginal cultures of North America, both in technology and social organization." "Sovereignty is an attribute of statehood, and aboriginal peoples in Canada had not arrived at the state level of political organization prior to contact with Europeans."
"Owing to this tremendous gap in civilization, the European colonization of North America was inevitable and, if we accept the philosophical analysis of John Locke and Emer de Vattel, justifiable."
"Current public policy... is flooding reserves with money, enticing people back, enticing people to stay and weakening their resolve to participate in Canadian society."
"Aboriginal government is fraught with difficulties stemming from small size, an overly ambitious agenda, and dependence on transfer payments." "In practice, aboriginal government produces wasteful, destructive, familistic factionalism."
"Perhaps the damage to Canada would be tolerable if it meant that aboriginal peoples would escape from the social pathologies in which they are mired to become prosperous, self-supporting citizens."
"Prosperity and self-sufficiency in the modern economy require a willingness to integrate into the economy, which means, among other things, a willingness to move to where jobs and investment opportunities exist."
"Contemporary judicial attempts to redefine aboriginal rights are producing little but uncertainty. Recent Supreme Court of Canada decisions define aboriginal title in a way that will make its use impossible in a modern economy."
"The treaties mean what they say. Their reinterpretation... has the potential to be both expensive and mischievous for the economies of all provinces in which treaties have been signed."

London Muslims were reminded yesterday (June 4) they have a religious duty to vote and ensure that their votes are informed ones. With 30,000 to 35,000 Muslims in the area, they represent a significant political force, they were told at an all-candidates meeting held by the Association of London Muslims.
An early success story was last fall's election of Khalil Ramal as the Liberal MPP for London-Fanshawe. He was introduced by debate moderator Faisal Joseph as "exhibit A" of growing Muslim political clout. "With 700,000 Muslims in this country, we can and will make a difference in the political process," Joseph told a crowd of about 300.
It has been noted that turnout among Muslim voters is about 40 per cent. Their leaders have set a target of 80 per cent for the June 28 federal election. "For far too long, we couldn't be heard," said Joseph. He noted the Canadian Islamic Congress has become more active politically and recently graded MPs on how they have dealt with issues of interest to Muslims, such as opposition to same-sex marriages and support for the Palestinian cause.
The debate was a civilized one among candidates from London-North- Centre, London West, London-Fanshawe and Elgin-Middlesex-London. It focused on such issues as immigration, Mideast policies, weapons of mass destruction, anti-terrorism legislation and same-sex marriage.
Across town, Conservative Leader Stephen Harper spoke to a rally of party faithful at the same time. The only Conservative to appear at the Muslim gathering was London West candidate Michael Menear, who gamely tried to convince listeners that his party stands for fairness and equity and increased immigration. But based on applause, the crowd favourites were the Liberals.
The clear darling of the group was Liberal Pat O'Brien of London- Fanshawe, who looked comfortable and polished and produced written material about his accomplishments in Arabic. Among them was a reminder that he supports Arabs and Palestinians, his opposition to same-sex marriage and to the "illegal" wall that Israel is building around Palestinians.
"Immigrants built this country; they will continue to build it," O'Brien said to thunderous applause. He reminded the audience that he played a big role in last fall's election of Ramal, the first Muslim MPP to be elected in the region. Asked about what assurances they could give there would be greater accountability in the spending of public money, O'Brien said the Liberal government would get to the bottom of the Quebec sponsorship scandal.
He said rules have been broken but added: "No political party has a monopoly on virtue. Every one has experienced difficulties like this when they have served in office."

The Canadian Islamic Congress has come out with a strongly critical position on the Conservative Party's political platform.
"Social justice and accessibility to uniquely Canadian programs are in grave danger," says a statement released today by the Islamic Congress. "Our distinct image, future sovereignty, and proud national past are all under threat."
With less than three weeks remaining before Election Day on June 28, the CIC is warning Canadians of imminent dangers to this country's social fabric and historic values of caring and sharing, if the political agenda of Stephen Harper's Conservative Party is implemented.
"It seems that the Harper Conservatives will also enforce an aggressive militant foreign policy, diverting funds from essential social justice programs, eroding the availability of health care, compromising the safeguarding of our environment, and creating a fiscal deficit," the CIC statement continues.
"Whereas we Canadian Muslims have a moral and democratic obligation to uphold social justice values at home, and to maintain our proud Canadian tradition of working for peace with justice abroad, we urge Canadian Muslim voters and our fellow Canadians of all faiths and backgrounds to exercise their right to vote in the next federal election on June 28.
"Whereas we believe that the Conservative Party's political agenda is fundamentally anti-social justice, and that Stephen Harper will abandon Canada's proud humanitarian commitment to work for peace with justice worldwide and instead pursue an aggressively militant foreign policy, we appeal to our Muslim community, and to all Canadians of conscience, to seriously study the implication of that party's political agenda.
"We further urge the Muslim community and our fellow Canadians to vote for candidates in their local ridings who have shown they respect Canadian values and who truly understand our country's concerns and social justice issues. This particularly includes the review and abolition of Bill C-36 and government-sanctioned racial profiling.
"We appeal to all eligible Canadians voters to go to the polls on June 28 as fully informed and fully committed multi-issue voters."
In April, the Canadian Islamic Congress released Canada's first research report card, "Election 2004: Towards Informed Committed Voting," in which Canada's 301 MPs were graded against a benchmark position paper dealing with 10 national and 10 international issues. That research report is posted on the CIC's web page.
Canadian Muslims hold a 1.8% to 13.5% swing vote in more than 100 ridings. These ridings are listed in CIC's research report.
The Congress has been strongly active in urging Canadians to become informed committed multi-issue voters, as seen in recent media op-eds:
Toronto Star -- A Guide for the Perplexed Voter
The Globe and Mail -- Why Muslims Should Vote

Dear Professor Elmasry,
My name is Asif Hossain and I am a candidate for MP in this federal election for Trinity-Spadina in Toronto. As the only Muslim candidate in this riding, and one of very few in the entire country, I would like to present myself as a voice for moderate Canadian foreign policy as I hope to restore Canada's role in the world as a peacekeeper and in your words, a "just and caring nation." However I must admit that I am a secular individual and not looking to score points on religious grounds, but rather how I feel about the state of Canadian politics and its attitude toward Muslims at home and abroad.
I am quite concerned right now with the possibility of a Stephen Harper Premiership in Canada. This man is the biggest threat to minorities in Canada, particularly to Muslims, but it is unfortunate that many are quite unaware. He views the world in terms of good and bad, black and white, with no real understanding, or with a willing ignorance of complex societal and international problems. I want to be in Parliament because I want to make people like him and Stockwell Day (who today on TV actually denied supporting the War on Iraq), stop in their tracks.
The Liberals I fear are just as bad. David Pratt loudly supported the War on Iraq. Paul Martin is quick to condemn the turning over of a few gravestones in a Jewish cemetary but remained mute on the Maher Arar situation and not to mention the plight of other Canadian Muslims and their treatment by U.S. authorities on a regular basis. Not a beep comes out of the PMO when Israel systematically and illegally targets Palestinian militants leaving scores of people dead and simply chalked up to collateral damage. Condemnations pour in from Europe and Asia but Canada remains silent. This Liberal government does not care for a balanced foreign policy.
Although the chances of winning in Trinity-Spadina this time around are limited for various reasons, I plan to be on the Canadian political scene for a long time. I was hoping to have a meeting with you sometime to discuss some issues in foreign policy that I believe require a great deal of attention. Furthermore I am also pleading that you look at my website and tell me what you think of my platform (www.asifhossain.com). And a further request that you may be able to forward my name and website to people living in Trinity- Spadina who wish to choose a progressive and moderate candidate on the 28th of June.
With Regards,
Asif Hossain, Progressive Canadian Party
Candidate for MP, Trinity-Spadina.
www.asifhossain.com

By CIC Staff Reporter -

On Saturday June 12, a 90-minute town hall meeting at the Salaheddine Islamic Centre of Toronto debated critical issues of the upcoming federal election. The meeting, which drew more than 300 attendees, was organized and hosted with the support of the Canadian Islamic Congress (CIC).

Dr. Mohamed Elmasry, national president of the Canadian Islamic Congress, reminded the audience of their duty to vote, urging Muslims to be fully engaged with the political process before, during, and after the June 28 election day.

Imam Ali Hindi of Salaheddine Mosque, expressed his concerns about the ongoing "war on terror" and the ill effects it has had on Canadian Muslims. He went on to state that the only way to reverse the negative effect is to go out and vote. Imam Adam Essa, president of COMO, echoed the same message.

Four Liberal and six NDP candidates from the GTA attended.

Among the issues up for deliberation were Bill C-36 and racial profiling. All candidates voiced their concerns about the erosion of civil liberties. If elected, the NDP candidates promised their government will revoke C-36, which has been called a "draconian law." Two Liberal MPs avoided justifying the Martin government's passing of C-36.

When the issue of racial profiling was brought up, NDP candidates denounced it. Dan Harris, the party's candidate for Scarborough- Southwest, called it "un-Canadian." But Liberal MP Tom Wappel of Scarborough Southwest tried to justify racial profiling by asking the audience, "what if you were the police chief of Vancouver and you were given information that groups of Japanese are going to commit a crime; who would you go after?"

The highlight for Liberals came with the mention of Canada's stance on Iraq. They received a strong round of applause in recognition of the Liberal government's refusal to participate in the U.S.- led war on Iraq. At other points in the evening's discussions NDP candidates showed they were eager to attract the Muslim vote, which has traditionally gone to the Liberals.

I was delighted with the story that ran Friday night (June 11) on CBC TV. You have a wonderful and motivating presence. I believe you are leading Muslims to a level of political input that will ultimately have impact. Congratulations.
L.P.

Congratulations. The report on Muslim voting on CBC Radio's The Current was informative.
P.F.

Maude Barlow of the Council of Canadians, and Elizabeth May of the Sierra Club, are circulating the letter below regarding Stephen Harper and his policies. We need signatures from as many Canadian women as possible. Due to the shortage of time to act before the election, we are hoping to get as many prominent women signed on as possible -- to maximize the impact when the letter is released to the media. Because of the focus on the election, we should be able to get good media coverage this time!.
Please, if you can, circulate this letter as far and wide as possible. We need the full name and title/credentials (if applicable) for the signatories. Many thanks for any assistance you can provide with this important endeavour.
Warmest regards,
Jillian Skeet
Tel: 604-324-1135
Email: jillianskeet@telus.net
WHY CANADIANS MUST REJECT HARPER: CANADIAN WOMEN SPEAK OUT
On June 28, 2004, Canadians face a starker choice than in any election in our lifetimes. Dissatisfaction with the years of Liberal government is driving voters toward the Conservative Party and its new and telegenic leader, Stephen Harper. With [less than two] weeks to go until election day, we fear many members of the public will not have time to adequately assess the sharp and clear differences between the major parties.
In fact, the "Conservative Party" is not a known and trusted alternative. The Right Honourable Joe Clark, former Prime Minister and a life-long member of the Progressive Conservative Party, made this clear when he urged the Canadian public to choose Paul Martin over Harper. The Harper agenda scares him. Many leading former Progressive Conservatives feel the same. The party Harper leads has little in common with the former Progressive Conservative Party.
But there is a way that Canadians can learn more about Harper's mysterious party: We can look South, to George Bush and the U.S. Republican Party. Like the Bush Republicans, the Harper Conservatives would take Canada into dangerous territory:

• Bush and Harper favour Canadian involvement in the illegal U.S. attack on Iraq.
• Bush and Harper would take Canada to deficits in order to pour billions into the military. Bush has already taken the U.S. into trillions of dollars of debt to fund militarism.
• Bush and Harper deny the reality of climate change and the threat to the whole planet, and especially Canada, from our continued reliance on fossil fuels.
• Bush and Harper reject the Kyoto Protocol. Harper has said he would not implement this international treaty which Canada has already ratified.
• Bush and Harper would change the protection of human rights enshrined in our respective Bill of Rights and Charter of Rights. Harper has said he would use the notwithstanding clause to prevent the equal application of the marriage laws as they affect single-sex couples.
• Bush and Harper would challenge a woman's right to choose. Harper has said he would allow the issue of access to legal abortions to be re- opened through an open vote in the House of Commons.
• Bush was responsible for more executions than any other U.S. Governor of recent times. Harper has suggested the prohibition of capital punishment would be re-opened in Canada.

We must not sleep-walk into electing a Canadian version of George W. Bush. Challenge Stephen Harper on these positions. Harper tells Canadians we should "Demand Better." First, Canadians must "Demand the truth" about the new Canadian Republican Party, masquerading as the Conservative Party of Canada.
We do not have much time.
* * *
If you would like to add your name as a signatory of this letter, please contact Jillian Skeet by email jillianskeet@telus.net or by phone: (604) 324-1135

By David Orchard -- The Globe and Mail -- June 15, 2004

The new Conservative Party under Stephen Harper declares itself a moderate alternative to the Liberals, ready to govern Canada.
In reality, the party has never had a convention or a meeting of its members. It has no constitution. Policies are set with no control by, direction from or accountability to a membership -- whoever those members may be. (The party is mailing out unsolicited membership cards informing surprised recipients they are party members. Mine arrived last week.)
The new party is actually the old Reform-Alliance, which took over the Progressive Conservative Party, its colours, and half its name. The word "progressive" was purged (along with its progressive wing). As Stephen Harper explained last June: "We may not have some of the old conservatives, red Tories like the David Orchards or the Joe Clarks. This is not all bad. A more coherent coalition can take strong positions it wouldn't otherwise be able to take -- as the Alliance alone was able to do during the Iraq war."
To accomplish the takeover, the Progressive Conservative constitution was trampled. About 20,000 Alliance members were allowed to join, in Trojan- horse fashion, increasing the PC membership by 50 per cent. Their presence and the party's convenient ratification process produced the farcical figure of more than 90 per cent support for the takeover/merger. Senator Lowell Murray described the takeover of the PC party as a "coup, similar to what we have seen in some countries where the constitution is suspended and a new order ratified in a quick plebiscite."
Now Mr. Harper's party has set up a truth squad to challenge Liberal "lies," headed by none other than Peter MacKay, the man who broke his word -- including that given in writing to win the leadership of his party -- not to merge with the Alliance, and who now refuses to reveal the source of the large donation he subsequently received to erase his campaign debts.
This is the party that attacks the Liberals for lacking ethics and accountability. A vote for the Conservative Party will legitimize the actions of a clique that destroyed the party that created Canada, and that now openly spurns basic elements of democracy. As Mr. Harper has admitted, policy for the new Conservatives will be essentially what he says it is.
For years, Mr. Harper headed the National Citizens Coalition (NCC) whose motto is "More freedom through less government." Speaking to the NCC in 1994 as a Reform MP, Mr. Harper boasted: "What has happened in the past five years? Let me start with the positive side. Universality has been severely reduced; it is virtually dead as a concept in most areas of public policy. The family-allowance program has been eliminated, and unemployment insurance has been seriously cut back. These achievements are due in part to the Reform Party of Canada and the National Citizens Coalition."
As Alliance leader in Parliament, Stephen Harper set out his views on health care: "Several provinces are involved in pushing for alternative private delivery, even on a profit basis. This is a natural development. In a properly functioning system, profit is the reward that businesses obtain for making substantial, long-term capital investments. The federal government must support this initiative."
The Canadian Wheat Board, established in 1935 by Conservative prime minister R..B. Bennett, has, in spite of fierce U.S. opposition, become Canada's largest net earner of foreign currency. It has played a crucial role in keeping the grain industry in Canadian hands and provides one of the few defences left for Western farmers. Mr. Harper and his colleagues, co-operating fully with the U.S. grain industry, call repeatedly for its destruction.
Mr. Harper has promised to scrap Canada's commitment to Kyoto, joining the United States in its opposition to the only international agreement to reduce harmful carbon-dioxide emissions. He plans to privatize major parts of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and to gut the nation's broadcast regulator, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, opening the broadcast industry to foreign takeover.
There is more: Since coming from the United States, Tom Flanagan, a key founder of the Reform Party and now Mr. Harper's chief adviser and the party's campaign manager, has made his career calling for the deliberate assimilation of native people. In his book "First Nations? Second Thoughts," Mr. Flanagan writes: "European civilization was several thousand years more advanced than the aboriginal cultures of North America." He dismisses aboriginal treaty rights: "Sovereignty is an attribute of statehood, and aboriginal peoples in Canada had not arrived at the state level of political organization prior to contact with Europeans." With Mr. Flanagan's man in power, native people are offered one choice: to cease to be a distinct people with fundamental rights.
On June 29, a minority Conservative government can expect Bloc support -- for a price. Both parties agree on dismantling the central government and national institutions in favour of greater provincial powers. As constitutional-affairs critic for the Reform Party in the lead-up to the 1995 Quebec referendum, Mr. Harper stated: "Whether Canada ends up with one national government, or some other kind of arrangement, is, quite frankly, secondary in my opinion."
His essay in 2001 defending Alliance MP Jim Pankiw's private member's bill to emasculate the Official Languages Act -- "Bilingualism: the God that failed" -- is equally revealing. Bloc MP Yves Rocheleau prefers a Conservative victory, he said, because it would "demonstrate what René Lévesque called 'the impossible Canada.' Canada is a madhouse. It's a country that cannot be administered."
A unilingual, French-speaking Quebec, a unilingual English-speaking rest of Canada, and no need for the twain to meet: this is the meeting ground for the Bloc and the Conservatives, and a graveyard for the dreams of all who have fought for a tolerant bilingual nation that is stronger for our efforts to learn from, and be protective of, the other's culture and language.
During the U.S. war on Iraq, Stephen Harper and Stockwell Day repeatedly advocated Canadian participation, including attacking the Canadian government in The Wall Street Journal on March 28: "A coalition of countries under the leadership of the U.K. and the U.S. is leading a military intervention to disarm Saddam Hussein. Yet, Prime Minister Jean Chrétien has left Canada outside this multilateral coalition of nations. This is a serious mistake. The Canadian Alliance -- the Official Opposition in Parliament -- supports the American and British position. Make no mistake; the Canadian Alliance won't be neutral. In our hearts and minds we will be with our allies and friends. But we will not be with the Canadian government."
Peter MacKay, now Mr. Harper's deputy leader, excoriated Mr. Chrétien for refusing to join that invasion. Today, apparently hoping Canadians and the media have lost their memories, Mr. Harper and Mr. Day try to fudge their words.
For those who want to protect Canada's culture, its environment, its institutions and its sovereignty, Mr. Harper and his inner circle seem to have little but contempt. They march to a different drummer, to the beat of Brian Mulroney and George W. Bush, pledging allegiance to a foreign flag.
(David Orchard, author of "The Fight for Canada -- Four Centuries of Resistance to American Expansionism," ran for the leadership of the federal Progressive Conservative Party in 1998 and 2003.)

NDP leader Jack Layton writes:
Dear Friend:
Thank you for your correspondence about the Middle East. The NDP's policy on the Middle East is based on two fundamental positions:

1. The NDP has consistently supported Israel's right to exist, and its people's right to live, safe from violence, within secure, recognized, established borders. Over the years this commitment has not wavered.
2. The NDP also believes in the right of the Palestinian people to a national homeland of their own, whose shape and status must be acceptable to the Palestinians and their neighbours, and which must be achieved through peaceful negotiations.

The federal NDP is committed to Canada playing a leading role in the international community with like-minded nations. We want to work for peace and justice in the Middle East within a framework of respect for UN resolutions and international law. The NDP believes that intolerance and hatred are not Canadian values. As NDP Leader, I will continue to speak out against acts of violence that find root in these beliefs... I aim to bring Canadians of diverse ethnic backgrounds together to create an open and constructive dialogue on how best to foster a society where no citizen is harassed or marginalized. The New Democratic Party will continue to build bridges between communities and facilitate open channels of communication.
We would like to reiterate that the only place to find a lasting peace is at the negotiating table. Once again, thank you for writing. I am hopeful we will continue to agree to defend the interests of all Canadians.
Sincerely,
Jack Layton and today's NDP.
* * *
Dave Kersting replies:
The statement of the NDP’s position toward Israel shows a shallow understanding. It is, of course, essential to support Israel’s right to exist, and its people’s right to live safe from violence, etc.
The conflict and discussion begin AFTER that point. The only point at issue is whether Israel can or should be limited to its Zionist definition as an officially "Jewish" state -- requiring perpetual, prejudiced violence against the human rights and proper return of non- Jewish Palestinians who have been displaced for various reasons. Obviously, Israel has no right to perpetuate the violation of human rights. Israel obviously has no right to deny return to Palestinians, simply because they are an undesired ethnicity.
If the Zionist demand for a "Jewish" majority and "Jewish" supremacy requires violent racism against the Palestinians, it can only bring strife to all concerned. If that demand requires denial of Palestinian return, the demand must be rejected -- by all standards of justice and by the basic criteria of peace.
Israel’s right to exist is not in question. Only the Zionists falsely say so, as they pretend that Israel ceases to exist if it is not defined as a "Jewish state." ... Zionist tricks should not determine the wording of sensible positions toward the Israel-Palestine conflict.
It is history -- not any person or party -- which decrees that Israel’s security and peace for the Middle East both await the elimination of Zionist racism and the corresponding reform of Israeli policies.
Those interested in peace, security, and longevity for Israel must support its right to exist, but we must also point out that the Zionist demand for "Jewish" ethnic supremacy -- over and above the basic human rights of displaced non-Jewish Palestinians -- is anathema to peace, security, and longevity.
Dave Kersting
(The above letters have been slightly abridged for publication.)

By David Pugliese -- The Ottawa Citizen -- June 15, 2004

[Excerpted]
In April, Defence Minister David Pratt took a swipe at the NDP and its claims that the U.S. missile defence shield Canada is looking to join is a throwback to president Ronald Reagan's controversial Star Wars plan.
This past week, NDP leader Jack Layton vowed to make Canada's participation in the missile shield an election issue. But it appears that in a political contest where voter anger is focused on recent scandals, accountability and government waste, the NDP leader could be facing an uphill battle.
At this point, the sides are well established in the missile defence debate. The Conservatives are eager for Canada to take part and have repeatedly called on the government to sign on to the system, which would use ground-based interceptors to shoot down rockets. The NDP and Bloc Quebecois are opposed, warning it would lead to weapons in space and start a new arms race. Layton and the Bloc's Gilles Duceppe have accused the Liberals of already deciding to take part in the shield, but keeping that information hidden from the public until after the election. The Liberals deny that, although they acknowledge they support the idea of a Canadian role in the system.
On the thorny issue of whether the shield would place weapons in space, Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham has said such claims are in the realm of science fiction. Besides, he notes, Canada would walk away from any missile shield deal if such devices become part of the system. Mr. Pratt has aggressively gone after the NDP, accusing it of scaremongering by linking the shield to Star Wars. That may be the political line for public consumption, but it's not what officials are saying behind the scenes.
American analyst Theresa Hitchens says the Liberal government's claim that weapons in space are not part of the shield is highly misleading. She notes that in its recent budget request, the U.S. Missile Defense Agency asked for an initial $47 million U.S. to start development of a space-based interceptor to be ready for testing in 2012.
Analyst Alain Pellerin of the Conference of Defence Associations lobby group, acknowledges space weapons could come at a later stage in the shield's development, but says "I'm not convinced that the general public is too concerned about having weapons in space."
The dilemma for Canada would come if and when space weapons go into operation sometime after 2012. Does the government then follow through with Prime Minister Paul Martin's promise to withdraw from the shield? Not likely, argues Theresa Hitchens.
"If you think you had a political problem with the U.S. now over your decision not to support the Bush administration on the Iraq war, just wait until you try to leave missile defence once you've signed on and it's up and running. Then watch the fireworks really begin."
* * *
Dear Prof. Mohamed Elmasry;
I thought you might like to see the above article. We know that the vast majority of Canadians oppose Canada joining George W. Bush's missile defence scheme because it's a waste of money and a danger to our security. Yet, I'm deeply concerned that the Liberals and Conservatives are not respecting the opinions of Canadians on this issue.
Thank you, Steven Staples Polaris Institute and founder of www.ceasefire.ca

Par / By Eleni Bakopanos, MP -- June 9, 2004

LES JEUNES ET LES FAMILLES
Montréal, le 9 juin 2004 -- Eleni Bakopanos est fière de ce qui a déjà été accompli par le gouvernement canadien pour l’amélioration de la condition de vie des familles. L’aide du gouvernement libéral s’est effectuée à différents niveaux. Sur le plan fiscal, grâce au plan quinquennal de réduction d’impôts instauré en 2000, les familles ayant des enfants profitent actuellement d’une réduction d’impôts annuels d’au moins, en moyenne, 27 %. Par l’entremise de l’accord sur le développement de la petite enfance conclu entre les provinces en septembre 2000, le gouvernement fédéral octroie 500 millions de dollars par année, à l’élargissement des programmes de développement de la petite enfance. Dans son dernier budget, le gouvernement libéral a annoncé des Bons d’études canadiens qui donnent aux familles à faible revenu un nouvel incitatif pour économiser en vue des études post- secondaires de leurs enfants. De plus, le gouvernement libéral a mis sur pied, en 2003, la subvention canadienne à l’épargne-études (SCEE). En 2003, Eleni Bakopanos a présenté la motion M-395 qui vise à faire indexer le supplément au revenu familial annuellement selon l’indice du coût de la vie, motion, qui rappelons-le, fut appuyée et adoptée à l’unanimité par tous les partis de la Chambre. Cette motion avait reçu l’appui également d’organismes non gouvernementaux du comté d’Ahuntsic. Considérant que le logement est un besoin essentiel pour les familles, le gouvernement libéral a investi un montant additionnel de 1,5 milliard de dollars pour les cinq prochaines années en plus des deux milliards de dollars en financement déjà concédés pour la création de nouveaux logements.
Dans Ahuntsic, Eleni Bakopanos s’investit pleinement pour les causes liées aux jeunes et aux familles. À ce titre, elle appuie de nombreux organismes dont le Centre des jeunes St-Sulpice qui a bénéficié du programme «Stratégie Emploi Jeunesse» ainsi que d’autres tels que : Tandem, Ahuntsic-Cartierville, Association Récréotouristique Bordeaux- Cartierville, Festiblues et Magi-Soi, qui ont bénéficiés du programme «Placement carrière été». Ce sont en moyenne 72 emplois par année qui sont offerts aux étudiants afin qu’ils puissent acquérir une expérience enrichissante auprès des organismes et institutions du quartier.
Eleni Bakopanos a toujours appuyé avec conviction les organismes du quartier dans leurs projets, qu’il s’agisse du Centre jeunesse Arabe, du Café 18-30, de l’École des parents, des Tables de concertation jeunesse, du Conseil local des Intervenants Communautaires de Bordeaux-Cartierville (C.L.I.C) ou de Solidarité Ahuntsic, pour n’en nommer que quelques uns, afin qu’ils reçoivent leur part des subventions disponibles des programmes fédéraux. Un autre exemple de dossier qui lui tient à coeur c’est l’aide aux sans-abris pour laquelle elle a appuyé plusieurs projets financés par le programme fédérale d’Initiative de partenariat en action communautaire (IPAC), dont celui de « l’Accès-Soir », un motorisé dans lequel circule des travailleurs de rues qui viennent en aide aux jeunes en difficulté dans le comté.
Eleni Bakopanos continuera à promouvoir la justice sociale et l’égalité dans toutes ses actions !
* * *
[Copyeditor note: The paraphrased and abridged English translation below is provided for the convenience of non-francophone readers of CIC's Election 2004 bulletins. While care has been taken to ensure that the substance of Ms. Bakopanos' story is authentically presented, this is not an official transcript document.]
YOUTH AND FAMILIES
Montreal -- Eleni Bakopanos is proud of what has already been accomplished by Canada's federal government in improving the quality of life for families. Liberal assistance in this area is being given at several levels. Thanks to a five-year reduction plan, instituted in 2000, families with children have seen an average 27% decrease in their federal taxes.
Through a federal-provincial plan launched in September 2000 to improve development opportunities for infants and toddlers, the federal government has made $500 million available annually. And in their last budget, the Liberals also announced, among other educational incentives, a new plan to enable low-income families to save for post-secondary education for their children.
In 2003, MP Eleni Bakopanos presented to the House motion M-395, which proposes to index family assistance supplements annually to the current cost of living -- a motion which was adopted unanimously by all members and also welcomed by non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Acknowledging that decent housing is an essential need for all families, the Liberal government has invested an additional $1.5 million for the next five years, in addition to more than $2 million already announced, to help finance the construction of new affordable housing units.
In the region of Ahuntsic, MP Eleni Bakopanos has campaigned energetically on all issues relating to Canadian youth and families. In these areas, her work has benefitted numerous social service and volunteer organizations, as well as helping to creating new employment opportunities. [Many local examples -- including help for and recognition of Canadian Muslim community programs -- are given.]
Eleni Bakopanos pledges that she will continue to promote the causes of social justice and equality in all her undertakings.

By Ed Corrigan

On Monday, June 28, 2004, Canadians will go to the polls to pass judgement on Paul Martin's Liberals and possibly to elect Stephen Harper's new Conservative Party -- the old Reform/Canadian Alliance Party, merged with the former Progressive Conservatives. The re-energized New Democratic Party (NDP) under former Toronto City Councillor Jack Layton has only a long shot at forming the next government but may end up holding the balance of power in a minority win by eith of the front- runners. Gilles Duceppe of the Bloc Quebecois could also hold the balance of power if there is no majority elected to the House of Commons.
The Green Party and other smaller partys have little chance at being elected, but collectively may play the role of spoiler. The political right has united under the Conservatives but the centre and the left are divided among the Liberals, the NDP and the Greens, who are registering 4 to 7% in the opinion polls. Their platform primarily concerns the environment, but they may play a decisive role by splitting off enough votes to elect the Conservatives, at the same time helping defeat Liberal and NDP candidates in close races. This may be the unintended outcome of a rise in support for the Greens, especially as the Conservative Party is not known for its concern over the environment.
Elections are the critical opportunity when voters decide who will be elected to the House of Commons and help determine who will form the next government. Therefore, your vote may be critically important.
The Arab and Muslim communities could determine the outcome in a close election if they vote strategically and as a group. This is how democracy works. To have a serious impact, it would require a high voter turnout of the Muslim and Arab communities. It is time that their concerns are addressed and this is the opportunity to do it and be heard.
The Canadian Islamic Congress (CIC) has prepared a report titled "Election 2004: Towards Informed and Committed Voting." The CIC rated every Member of Parliament on 20 national and international issues. The Congress awarded every New Democrat MP a solid A. Among the Liberals, 42 received an A; 80 received a B; and 50 an F. Among the Conservative MPs, only six got an A and the remaining 70 all received a failing grade.
In the CIC study, all four London MPs -- Sue Barnes (London West), Joe Fontana (London-North-Centre), Gar Knutson (Elgin-Middlesex-Elgin), and Pat O'Brien (London Fanshawe) -- received As. In other area ridings, Liberal MP Rosemary Ur (Lambton-Kent-Middlesex) got an F, as did Conservative Gary Schellenberger (Perth Middlesex).
The Canadian Islamic Congress report "Election 2004" is very valuable. It can be found on the CIC Web site at
http://canadianislamiccongress.com/election2004
/Election2004.pdf.
The study also reviews demographic information for 101 ridings where the Muslim population, according to Statistics Canada's 2001 Census, could have an electoral impact. These are ridings where Muslims make up at least 1.8% of the population. If the Muslim population voted in a bloc, they could have a 3.6% impact on the election outcome.
The riding of Don Valley West has a 13.5% Muslim population. Muslims could have a 27% impact on the vote in that riding if they voted strategically as a bloc. The ridings of London Fanshawe and London West, according the 2001 Census Report, have a Muslim population of 3.6% for a potential electoral impact of 7.2%. According to Stats Canada, London- North-Centre has a Muslim population of 3.0%. This could have a potential voting impact of 6%. Elgin-Middlesex-London also has a significant Arab and Muslim population in the White Oaks area.
It is my view that the Arab and Muslim communities should support candidates that have supported them on key political issues and have a chance of being elected. If the community wants politicians to support their concerns, its members must also demonstrate support for those politicians. This is how politics works.
NDP leader Jack Layton should get high marks for opposing the War on Iraq and for speaking at the anti-War Rally held in London on January 18, 2003. Layton also has a fairly good stand on the Palestinian issue. Pat O'Brien, Liberal MP for London Fanshawe, also spoke at that rally and Liberal MP Sue Barnes of London West attended it. If memory serves me correctly, no other current candidate spoke at the rally, although the local NDP was well represented and London City Councillor Sandy White joined various Labour leaders who spoke out against the war. Liberal M.P. Joe Fontana was visiting Egypt at the time and could not be present.
While the NDP Party strongly opposed the Iraq War, it was the Liberal Government of Prime Minister Jean Chretien that kept Canada out of the campaign. Conservative Party leader Stephen Harper strongly supported George W. Bush's "War on Terrorism" the war and publicly urged that Canada follow suit. He has not retracted his position, despite the fact that no weapons of mass destruction have been found in Iraq and that much of the evidence put forward in support of the war proved to be false.
Citing the Liberal government's recent chilly relationship with Washington, the Conservative platform said it would look at building stronger ties with the U.S. To do that, Mr. Harper proposes to make the Canadian ambassador to the U.S. a member of Cabinet and to create the position of Secretary of State for Canada-U.S. Relations.
In a recent Globe and Mail article, Maude Barlow, head of the Council of Canadians, wrote: "Maclean's magazine published a poll showing that only 15 per cent of Canadians would vote for George W. Bush if they had the chance. However recent polls show that many of those same Canadians are willing to give Stephen Harper a shot at leading the country. They should think twice. A vote for Stephen Harper is a vote for George Bush."
On the question of Palestine, two local London MPs have distinguished themselves. At a large Palestinian support rally held in London, Ontario's Victoria Park on April 12, 2002, London-North-Centre MP Joe Fontana spoke strongly in support of Palestinian rights. A supportive letter from MP Pat O'Brien of London Fanshawe was also read at the rally. Fontana also participated in a Canadian Parliamentary mission to Palestine between May 11 and 18, 2002, headed by Liberal MP Carolyn Parrish (Mississauga Centre) and included Liberal MP Colleen Beaumier (Brampton), NDP MP Libby Davis (Vancouver East) and five other MPs from Quebec.
Their published report on the "Canadian Parliamentarians' Mission to Palestine" is full of factual information and is very critical of Israeli violations of Palestinian human rights. No Conservative Member of Parliament participated in the tour. Liberal M.P. Pat O'Brien recently came under attack by B'nai Brith, one of Canada's most prominent Jewish organizations, which objected to his statement on Israel's so-called Security Wall made in the House of Commons on February 17, 2004. O'Brien said: "The wall denies basic human rights to the Palestinian people and further reduces the West Bank and Gaza Strip to the status of concentration camps." He also said that by building the "security barrier" on Palestinian land the Israeli government of Ariel Sharon was violating international law. O'Brien camec under heavy attack by prominent Zionists, including the Hon. Art Eggleton, a prominent Liberal MP and former mayor of Toronto. To his credit, Pat O'Brien held his ground and refused to retract his criticisms of Israel's wall.
The Conservatives are running strong races in Elgin-Middlesex-London, London-North-Centre, and in London West. In those ridings they are the most serious threat to the incumbent Liberals. However, in two London ridings the NDP is mounting strong campaigns. Irene Mathyssen, a former MPP, is running hard in London Fanshawe. Joe Swan, a former member of London City Council, is also running a very strong campaign in London- North-Centre, which is the most interesting race in the city, as it is a three-way fight with any of the three major party candidates having a shot at winning. Joe Fontana has held the seat since 1988 but he is being squeezed from the political right and left. The vote will be split three ways and it will be close. Tim Gatton is the Conservative candidate. He served as political assistant to London Mayor Diane Haskett and worked for Canadian Alliance Leader Stockwell Day, running his household at Stornaway.
The other three London ridings are primarily two-way fights. In Elgin- Middlesex-London Conservative Joe Preston, a St. Thomas businessman, is mounting a serious challenge to Liberal Gar Knutson, who is the only government Minister in the London area. Tim McCallum is representing the NDP and Ken DeVries the Christian Heritage Party.
In London West Conservative Michael Menear, a lawyer, is strongly challenging incumbent Liberal Sue Barnes.Gina Barber, who teaches Sociology at Fanshawe College, is running a distant third. Rebecca Bromwich is running for the Green Party.
In London Fanshawe, it is the NDP and Irene Mathyssen that present the most serious threat to Pat O'Brien, who was first elected MP in 1993. The Conservatives are running John Mazzilli, younger brother of Frank Mazzilli, the recently defeated MPP for the riding; he is running in third place.
The political problem that undermines the effectiveness of Arab and Muslim voting power is the debate over social issues such as abortion, women's rights and "gay" marriage. The NDP, and many Liberals, support equal rights for women, support minority rights, and also support equal rights for the gay community.
Most Muslims are opposed to extending equal rights to the gay community, especially on the issue of the right to marriage. This issue creates a deep rift between Muslims and the NDP and Liberals, who support minority rights and who generally have good positions on Palestine and Iraq. Progressives who support equal rights for minorities, immigrants, women and gays are generally more sympathetic to Muslim and Arab minority concerns and more open to their views on Middle East issues, especially those involving questions of human rights.
Most Conservatives, like former Canadian Alliance leader and current Conservative Foreign Affairs Critic, Stockwell Day, generally are strong supporters of Israel, extremely hostile to Palestinians and Muslims on the political front, and are strong supporters of the American attack on Iraq. Many Conservatives support the American neo-conservative "War on Terrorism"and the assault on civil liberties that Muslims and Arabs have recently suffered in the United States.
Most Christian fundamentalists are strong Zionists and support Israel as a fulfillment of Biblical prophecies. They are a strong force in the former Reform Party, now merged into the Conservative Party. Muslims have to decide if they want to support the Conservatives and their social agenda and suffer the political consequences of electing individuals who are largely opposed to their political views. Are Muslims prepared to compromise on their religious beliefs and support individuals and parties that are much more open to their political views? This debate over social conservatism has been the divisive issue that has undermined the political effectiveness of the Muslim community and has been adroitly exploited by their political adversaries. This split has brought about dire consequences for the Muslim and Arab communities in the political realm.
In an election as close as this one there are enough Arab and Muslim voters in London-area ridings to swing the election to one particular candidate. To be politically effective the Arab and Muslim communities must vote and demonstrate their political power. If the Arab and Muslim communities directly participate in the election process by volunteering their time and by donating to candidates who support their concerns, the political benefits would be enormous. However, after June 28, 2004 we will all have to live with the results.
(Ed Corrigan is a London Lawyer. This article was edited and abridged for the CIC Election 2004 Special Issue. It was originally published in Albilad, London, Ontario.)

By Peter Howell, Film Critic -- The Toronto Star -- Saturday, June 19, 2004

Firebrand filmmaker Michael Moore hopes his controversial new work will help stop Conservative Leader Stephen Harper from becoming Prime Minister, along with throwing U.S. President George W. Bush out of office.
Moore came to Toronto on June 18 for the Canadian premiere of his Palme d'Or-winning film, Fahrenheit 9/11, which opens in theatres this coming Friday. It scorches the Bush administration for its handling of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the U.S.-led wars in Afghanistan and Iraq that followed them. And Moore brought with him a warning that if Canadians swing to the right by electing the Harper Conservatives on June 28, as some polls suggest might happen, then dire consequences will follow.
"I can't believe that you guys would think about going in that direction, when we're trying to get out of that direction," Moore told the Star, shortly before heading to the Varsity Cinemas to make a red-carpet arrival at the screening. "I hope this doesn't happen. Bush is going to throw a party (after the Canadian election). He's going to be a happy man. (Harper) has a big pair of scissors in his hand. He wants to snip away at your social safety net. He'd like this to be the 51st State."
Moore doesn't let the Liberals off the hook either, blaming them for creating the mood in Canada where a Conservative government seems plausible. "They moved to the right (under Martin), which then validated the right."
Moore, 50, has always loved Canada and followed politics here avidly even before his first film, Roger & Me, made him the star of the 1989 Toronto International Film Festival. He praised former Prime Minister Jean Chretien for refusing last year to join Bush's "Coalition of the Willing" in the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. He regrets not giving Chretien credit for his bravery in Fahrenheit 9/11, much of which takes a critical look at the Iraq invasion and the Bush family's ties to terrorist leader Osama bin Laden.
Moore has become much more serious about his political views, so much so that Disney attempted to stop its subsidiary Miramax Films from releasing Fahrenheit 9/11, for fear of upsetting Bush supporters. The surprise Palme d'Or win last month in Cannes helped Moore find other distributors, including Canadian firms Alliance Atlantis and Lions Gate.
Fahrenheit 9/11 has become one of the year's hottest properties. There have been reports Stateside of right-wing attempts to block or limit distribution of the film, and at least one death threat has been reported against an exhibitor. Despite all that, Fahrenheit 9/11 is still expected to roll out on hundreds of screens in North America on June 25. That includes an eventual 140 in Canada within the first two two weeks.
Moore said Canadian distributors originally thought of delaying the release of Fahrenheit 9/11 until after the federal election, to avoid influencing the outcome -- even though the film makes almost no mention of Canada. "And I said, no, no, no. Even if it's just four days before the election, you've got to get something out there to inspire people to do the right thing... This movie should say to Canadians, you want to join the Coalition of the Willing? Get ready to send your kids over to die for nothing, so that Bush's buddies can line their pockets."
Fahrenheit 9/11 is unrelenting in its criticism of Bush, beginning with his controversial victory over Democratic challenger Al Gore in the 2000 election, a vote that was finally decided by the Republican-dominated Supreme Court. The film makes powerful connections between the Bush family and Saudi Arabian oil interests, including the family of Sept. 11 terrorist leader Osama bin Laden.
The film is also unstinting in its depiction of the brutality of war, showing grisly scenes of the Iraqi conflict not widely seen on U.S. TV, including the recent desecration of American bodies in Falluja. "I can't take it any more," Moore said. "That's really the bottom line. I can't stand what Bush has done from the get-go."
But Moore insists that Fahrenheit 9/11 and his vigorous promotional campaigns are meant simply to goad people into getting involved in politics and taking a stand on important issues. They're not a personal vendetta against George W. Bush.
"No, not at all. In fact, if anything, I am grateful to the Bush family. If it weren't for them, I wouldn't be a filmmaker. Bush's first cousin, Kevin Rafferty, taught me how to make movies. He was a documentary filmmaker who made The Atomic Cafe. He shot most of Roger & Me for me ... So if it weren't for a member of the Bush family, I wouldn't have maybe gotten into this. I feel badly for George W. I don't think he ever wanted to be president.... He's a frat boy, ne'er-do-well living off daddy's largesse. I want to help him back to that life so he's happier."

Dear Prof. Ismael:
Can you please explain why you are suggesting that Muslims and non- Muslims vote strategically?

Khalid Usman,
Councillor Ward 7,
Markham, Ontario

* * *
Dear Councillor Usman;

First let me congratulate you for being active in politics and being a positive representative. Responding to your valid question; voting strategically, in my opinion, is the best way to ensure that a positive political environment is maintained in Canada. Under the conditions of a post-9/11 world, there is a distinct danger that progress made in social justice and Canadian values could be undermined by fear and war- mongering. For all its faults -- and let's be clear, there are many -- the Liberal Party still represents the tolerance and acceptance that are at the core of Canadian values. My greatest fear is that dissatisfaction with the Liberal government could translate into a step backwards from those progressive values by putting the old Reform party in power. I have lived in Alberta for 36 years, so I am very familiar with the 'western' political agenda in Canadian politics. Needless to say, I am a supportor of the NDP, and as Chomsky said, "if I lived in Canada the NDP would be my choice."
Thanks for writing, and keep up the good work.

Tareq Y. Ismael,
Professor of Political Science
University of Calgary
Calgary, Alberta, Canada

-------------------------

Dear Prof. Ismael:
I agree with strategic voting. But I also believe that the entrenched can be changed. Look at what happened in India when millions of the otherwise disenfranchised voted. In fact, I'm voting NDP because of the BMD issue. And because the incumbant is a long time friend. But our Liberal candidate is pretty good, so if it looks like a run between Libs and Cons, I'd vote Liberal.
(I'm actually a bit disappointed in Jack Layton as a leader.)

Yours,
Dale Dewar, MD, CCFP
Coordinator, Rural Division of the Department of Family Medicine
University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine

* * *
Thank you Dr. Dewar;
You are absolutely right; if everything was normal in this election I would be voting NDP. I have done it in Alberta for many years.
However, as you well pointed out, in a contest between the Liberals and Conservatives, I have to vote with the Liberals. For me the stakes are too high; Canada cannot afford to see a Conservative government in Ottawa considering that the new Conservatives are Canadian copies of U.S. neo- cons.
In the past, the Progressive Conservative party (who still maintained the core Canadian values) would have been a viable alternative to the Liberal party if people desired change, but unfortunately that option has been taken away from us. Thank you for taking the time to write, take care.

Tareq Y. Ismael
Professor of Political Science
University of Calgary
Calgary, Alberta, Canada

By Jeff Heinrich - The Montreal Gazette -- June 23, 2004

It took only a decade for their population to double. Now Canada's 600,000-plus Muslims are calling in their political chips at the polls.
Harkening to calls by a range of Islamic groups to vote in Monday's federal election, Muslims have been running candidates, issuing news releases, organizing town hall-style meetings with candidates, and planning exit polls on voting day.
Their goal: to follow God's will by voting and to elect candidates who reflect their often conservative moral values and left-of-centre political leanings.
"Voting is both a civic and a religious duty," said Mohamed Elmasry, the Egyptian-born president of the Canadian Islamic Congress, the country's largest and most vocal Muslim organization. "Our target is to have more than 80 per cent of eligible Canadian Muslims" -- double the last election -- "coming out to vote, Inshallah (God willing), on June 28."
Traditionally reluctant to exercise that right, Muslims are now being told their vote could make a big difference.
Why? Because in 31 so-called swing ridings -- including six in Quebec -- they make up as much as 13 per cent of eligible voters, a significant minority. And with the campaign teetering toward a possible Liberal or Conservative minority government, those votes could be a significant factor.
Canadian Muslims' new political clout has a direct source: higher immigration. In the 2001 federal census made public last year, Islam emerged as the fastest-growing religion in Canada. A total of 579,600 people identified themselves as Muslims, more than double the 253,300 who did so in 1991 -- up from 98,000 in 1981 and 33,000 in 1971. In Quebec, the gain in the last decade was even higher -- 141 per cent, or 108,620 people by 2001.
Most are Canadian citizens, and so can vote. In fact, in Montreal and nine other major Canadian cities, Muslims now make up the largest non- Christian voting bloc.
Do they all vote the same? Some doubt it. "To assume that Muslims do anything in a bloc is a huge misperception," said Alia Hogben, executive director of the Canadian Council of Muslim Women. "People vote as citizens, not as Catholics or Jews or Muslims," agreed Carolle Simard, a Universite du Quebec a Montreal political scientist.
In Montreal, Iraqi immigrant Khalil Tabatabai is voting in his first election. As a conservative Shia Muslim preacher, he knows what he wants in a candidate. "He should care for religious freedom, not favour gays and homosexuality, and support women wearing the hijab," said Tabatabai, a former medical doctor voting in the Notre-Dame-de-Grace-Lachine riding.
Tabatabai spent 25 years in Dubai before he immigrated here in 1999. Last month, he organized an all-candidates meeting at a Cote des Neiges mosque popular with Iraqis. His religious views are typical of traditional Canadian Muslims, reflecting their taboos against homosexuality and abortion, and their emphasis on feminine modesty as a way to avert promiscuity and disease.
The Canadian Islamic Congress also wants Muslims to think more broadly about political debates facing their communities: the C-36 anti-terrorism law, the war on Iraq, the privatization of health care and other issues. "We're telling the community, 'You have to do your homework and quiz your candidate,' " Elmasry said. "'And at the end of the day, you can make up your mind.' "

MONTREAL -- June 23, 2004. The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) urges all eligible voters in the Muslim community to exercise their right to vote in the June 28th Canadian federal election.
In addition, MCM encourages members of the Muslim community to vote strategically, and to study the candidates and their previous records on a variety of issues before making a decision, not just blindly vote along party lines. In some ridings it may be better to vote for one party and in other ridings it may be wiser to vote for another party.
Please refer to CIC's most recent study entitled: "ELECTION 2004: TOWARDS COMMITTED VOTING -- GRADING MPs" which is the country's first research report that quantitatively evaluates MPs' performances on a roster of critical national and international issues. The study can be viewed at:
http://www.canadianislamiccongress.com/elections04.php
It is the position of MCM, given current political realities, that the best outcome for the federal election would be a minority Liberal government with the support of the NDP. In addition, a Liberal government is more desirable than a Conservative government. This does not mean that we endorse the idea that all Muslims go out and vote Liberal. In fact, in some ridings this would not be desirable.
When making your decision regarding for whom to vote, MCM suggests keeping the following four considerations in mind:
1) It is essential that the Conservatives do not receive any support from our community, as their right-wing politics are neither good for the Muslim community nor for the nation as a whole. This party should not be given support in any riding.
2) In some cases, there are candidates whose politics we find objectionable and even hostile to our community, so we should support those individuals who have the best chance of defeating objectionable candidates.
3) There are candidates who have an established track record of standing up for social justice and have adopted principled positions on a number of key issues, so they should be given our support.
4) Some political parties have a platform which comes close to our community's interests and thus they should be supported.
To find your electoral riding visit: http://www.elections.ca and type in your postal code. Also, the following link lists all 75 federal ridings in Quebec, along with who is running for election in each riding:
http://www.nodice.ca/election2004/ridings-quebec.html
And finally, Muslim voters across Canada are encouraged to participate in the Canadian Islamic Congress's exit poll by logging on to:
http://www.canadianislamiccongress.com/election2004/form.php
MCM would like to stress that it is important not just to vote, based on one or two isolated issues, but to study all the various issues and the candidate's positions on them, then decide accordingly.
Canada is your country, so on June 28th stand up and make your opinion count.
(MCM is an umbrella organization representing over 40 Muslim institutions in the Montreal region. There are more than 125,000 Muslims in Montreal, about 700,000 in Canada, and 1.5 billion worldwide.)

For further information please contact:
Salam Elmenyawi,
President of the Muslim Council of Montreal
P.O.Box 5286 St-Laurent Stn, St-Laurent, H4L 4Z8
Phone: 514 748 8427
e-mail: salam@muslimcouncil.org

Dear Dr. Ismael
It was nice to know of your views on the forthcoming election. Living in the most secenic area of Canada, like the Kashmir Valley, has bestowed on you the intellect to judge future events prudently.
I am a Canadian from Waterloo, Ontario, and am helping development of Solar energy technology in Pakistan -- so that future generations have clean air to breathe.
Regards
Sirfraz Ahmed Khan,
Engineer, Pakistan
---------------------------------------
Assalamu alaikum, Prof. Ismael:
Many thanks for your wonderfully sound advice to the Muslim Community with respect to the current federal election. I couldn't agree with you more. However, I'm not not sure what we can do to ensure that the NDP will have a chance to be the official opposition, when we hold our collective noses and vote Liberal.
I do hope the NDP will form the official opposition, by the fadl of Allah. In the mid-eighties the Ontario NDP, under Bob Rae, did a great a job keeping the Peterson Liberal government honest. As a matter of fact, the Ontario electorate gave the NDP its mandate to rule the province a few years later. Alas, the very same Bob Rae antagonized his supporters and squandered that mandate.
You say, "You want to be a true and loyal Canadian and contribute to society in the best way you can, yet the Canadian environment is one where you may be singled out, not be fully trusted, where you have to prove yourself first. I even feel that in my own university; there's a cautiousness, and perhaps underneath it still some trace of racism, which plays out in many different ways."
Please turn your mind to putting flesh on a plan of action -- advice for Muslims in Canada -- to effectively combat the situation described in your words. That, I hope, will stand the next two generations of Muslims in this country (and perhaps in the U. S.) in good stead.
Thank you for your counsel. We look forward to more.
Wassalam.
Jamal Hassan
Toronto, Canada.

Dear Friends:
I know that many people are contemplating voting Conservative because they are mad at the Liberals and because Stephen Harper is coming across as a reasonable guy. All this is understandable, but I believe that the real Stephen Harper and the real Conservative policies are bad for Canada and our future. Below I have listed my top ten reasons for not voting Conservative. If you think this list is worth considering before you decide how to vote, please send a copy on to a few friends.
Michael
P.S. This is NOT a sponsored political advertisement: I just wanted to make a list for myself but when I showed it to a few others they suggested that it would be useful to circulate.
Ten reasons not to vote Conservative:

1. The Conservatives will withdraw from Canada's agreement to the Kyoto Accord on climate change. This will have serious effects for Canada's standing in the global community, to say nothing of the world's effort to reduce global warming. If you have children or grandchildren, be worried. There is no greater threat to their future well-being than climate change.

2. The Conservative fiscal plan does not add up. It will leave Canada once again with a huge deficit by making tax cuts we cannot afford. The Conservatives can only balance their budget with several billion dollars in cuts to other government programs, according to studies by the CD Howe Institute and the Bank of Nova Scotia. Ten years later, the Conservative fiscal plan will mean higher taxes to pay the debt they accumulate.

3. The Conservatives main "social" plank is a $2000 child tax deduction. This would provide no benefits at all to low income families, such as a single mother working at minimum wage, but would provide about $1,160 to a single earner making $200,000 a year. The cost of this proposal is about $3.5 billion, and it will also cost the provinces about $1.75 billion -- each and every year! The Conservative platform does not acknowledge the cost to the provinces. This $5+ billion a year could almost end child poverty in Canada if it were put into the existing National Child Benefit.

4. Stephen Harper wrote an article and made numerous statements advocating Canada's participation in the war in Iraq. His current disavowal of his own position shows that he is not willing to be straightforward with the public and accept responsibility on a difficult issue. His stand in favour of Canada's participation shows that he does not value Canada's long-standing support for the United Nations and multilateral international institutions.

5. Stephen Harper's main advisor, Ton Flanagan, who is likely to be his Chief of Staff and very influential in Ottawa, has written a book (First Nations? Second Thoughts) that has caused deep distress in Canada's Aboriginal community. Essentially, Flanagan argues against any "special recognition" of Aboriginal people. Many members of the Conservative caucus have taken similar positions. A Conservative government will attempt to set the clock back on Aboriginal issues, and will cause great tensions among Canada's Aboriginal peoples -- our most vulnerable community.

6. Stephen Harper has said that he will allow free votes on private member bills. It is virtually certain that a private member will sponsor a bill to reduce women's right to choose in pregn