BY NARGIS TAPAL
OTTAWA, February 2, 2005.
The Muslim Canadian Congress, a Toronto-based
grassroots organisation, has welcomed the legislation presented by Justice
Minister Irvin Cotler that re-defines marriage to include same-sex partners, and
has urged Muslims and other minority groups to stand in solidarity with gays and
lesbians.
Addressing a press conference in Ottawa this morning, Rizwana
Jafri, president of the MCC said Muslim Canadians have experienced life as a
marginalised minority and have relied on the Canadian Charter to fight for their
right to be treated as equal citizens. "It is incumbent upon us, as a minority,
to stand up in solidarity with Canada’s gays and lesbians despite the fact that
many in our community believe our religion does not condone homosexuality," she
added.
"This legislation is not about religion; it is about fundamental
and universal human rights that are a guarantee that all Canadians, irrespective
of their religious or ethnic background, feel part of the same family. While
within this family we may agree to disagree, we must respect each other and
treat others with dignity; that is a hallmark of civil society," Ms. Jafri
added.
Tarek Fatah, host of the CTS-TV show, The Muslim
Chronicle, criticised the fear-mongering started by some religious
institutions against same-sex marriage. "The religious institutions who are
spreading fear among their congregations are not being honest about this law. No
mosque, church, temple, or synagogue will ever have to conduct a same-sex
marriage if they don’t wish to. The guarantee of the freedom of religion in our
Constitution and the legislation presented today ensure that every Canadian will
continue to have the right to practice their religion as they deem fit. However,
freedom of religion cannot come at the cost of limiting the rights of other
groups in society."
Barrister Arif Raza told the press conference that he understood
the concerns of some Muslims who are worried that allowing same-sex marriages
will dilute the institution of marriage, but emphasised that those asking for
Prime Minister Martin to use the Notwithstanding Clause should understand that
one day, the rights of Muslims too could be compromised if using the
Notwithstanding Clause became a precedent.
"I urge Canada’s Muslim community and other minority communities
to show solidarity with Canada’s gays and lesbians even if they have
reservations about homosexuality. We don’t have to agree with each other to
stand up for the human rights of those with whom we disagree," Mr. Raza added.
He asked Canadians to be generous, kind and compassionate in this matter. By
supporting the rights of a minority, we will be able to walk with our heads held
high among the nations of this earth. "Today we have an opportunity to stand
tall and demonstrate that fighting for human rights is only worthwhile when we
fight it for the other, not just for ourselves," said Arif Raza.