NJW’s Advocacy Visit to MP Zuberi: Highlighting the Dangers Arising from Hate Speech
In a concerted effort to combat the scourge of hate speech in Canada, Northern Justice Watch (NJW) recently embarked on an advocacy visit to MP Sameer Zuberi, a distinguished member of the Liberal Party representing Pierrefonds—Dollard, Quebec. As the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities, MP Zuberi holds a pivotal role in shaping policies that promote social cohesion and combat discrimination.
During the visit, NJW representatives, accompanied by Dr. Davut Akca from Lakehead University, presented the findings of a recent research endeavor shedding light on the pernicious impact of hate speech, particularly focusing on the term “FETO,” which has been weaponized to target members of the Hizmet Movement. The study, conducted with 318 participants, revealed alarming instances of verbal and online attacks, necessitating significant adjustments in individuals’ lives to evade oppression. Moreover, it underscored the profound ramifications on victims’ sense of identity and familial relationships, highlighting the multifaceted challenges posed by hate speech in Canadian society.
The NJW delegation, comprising Justice and Accountability Director Hilal Celegen, Program Development Director Tarik Saglam, as well as representatives from the Intercultural Dialogue Institute Ottawa, including Osman Erol and Salih Tinmaz, advocated for legislative reforms to address hate speech effectively. Emphasizing the importance of preventive measures, the team urged MP Zuberi to champion strategies aimed at curbing the escalation of hate speech while fostering greater awareness and support for affected communities.
Northern Justice Watch underscores the imperative of adopting a comprehensive approach to combat hate speech in Canada, including addressing the insidious labeling of groups such as “FETO.” Through its initiatives across the country, NJW remains committed to tackling these pressing issues and fostering a society that embraces inclusivity and tolerance. By prioritizing awareness-raising efforts, bolstering support mechanisms, and fostering community engagement, NJW seeks to pave the way for a more equitable and harmonious future for all Canadians.
In conclusion, the advocacy visit to MP Zuberi serves as a crucial step towards galvanizing legislative action and societal change in the fight against hate speech. With concerted efforts and collaborative endeavors, we can collectively strive towards building a Canada where every individual is valued and respected, irrespective of their background or beliefs.
