Canadian Muslims urged to send prayers and aid immediately to Syria

July 9, 2012

EMERGENCY COMMUNITY APPEAL

Montreal, Quebec, July 9th, 2012- The Muslim Council of Montreal urges all Canadian Muslims to donate generously to the relief efforts in Syria, and make an abundance of prayers for them, as the violent internal conflict continues to rock the country due to protests against the oppressive rule of Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad.

 

“It has been over a year since this brutal violence has erupted in Syria and the situation is deteriorating day by day,” stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of MCM. “These are our brothers and sisters and they are giving their lives to seek what are basic human rights for everyone -justice, freedom and democracy. They are in desperate need of emergency aid, shelter, food, water and medical assistance. As Muslims, we believe that giving in charity never diminishes wealth, so we should give without hesitation and pray for all the people in Syria, that there is a just and peaceful resolution to this conflict soon.”
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Muslim Council of Montreal calls for day of awareness and prayer for Syria

February 22, 2012
COMMUNITY ALERT

Montreal, Quebec, February 22nd, 2012- The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) calls on all mosque and community leaders to dedicate the upcoming Friday sermon to help raise awareness about the crisis in Syria and pray for peace.

“The situation in Syria is worsening and escalating day by day and the death toll continues to rise,” stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of MCM. “The Syrian people are asking for peace, justice and freedom and for this they are being persecuted by their government. We ask all mosques to dedicate the Friday sermon this week to help raise awareness about the situation in Syria, and to encourage the people to increase their prayers on behalf of all the Syrian people.”
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Muslim Council of Montreal calls on all mosques to ensure adequate security systems are in place

January 10, 2012
COMMUNITY ALERT

Montreal, Quebec, January 9th, 2012- The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) calls on all mosques and Islamic institutions to take the necessary measures to ensure that their facilities are equipped with adequate surveillance and alarm systems.

“It is alarming to see the rising number of attacks of vandalism and hate taking place at our religious institutions and our communities must protect themselves,” stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of MCM. “In order to help keep our communities safe, we strongly urge all institutions to ensure they have all the required operational security equipment to deter such attacks, such as intrusion detection security systems, closed-circuit surveillance cameras, fire alarm systems, proper lighting etc. Staff should also be properly trained to ensure they know how to operate the security infrastructure, and together with regular members of the congregation should be trained to identify and report any unusual activities in or around the institutions. All of these measures should be undertaken immediately so that our communities can practice their faith in peace, without fear of attack.”
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Muslim Council of Montreal calls on all mosques to join fight to end violence against women

December 6, 2011
COMMUNITY ALERT

Montreal, Quebec, December 6th, 2011- The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) invites all mosques to dedicate their Friday sermons on December 9th to address the issue of domestic violence, in commemoration of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada. The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada is marked annually on December 6th, on the anniversary of the murders in 1989 of 14 young women at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal.

 

“This marks the 22nd anniversary of the tragic murders that took place at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal and as Canadians we should remember those innocent victims by renewing our pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about any form of violence against women,” stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of MCM. “Around the world, the numbers for abuse against women range from 15% to 71%. At times of war and in conflict zones, it is often girls and women who pay the heaviest price, becoming victims of war rapes, sexual slavery and forced prostitution. Here at home, it is estimated 60% of Canadian women have suffered from physical or psychological violence at some time in their life. We must speak out against this and say enough is enough.”

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Eid Prayer Times and Locations in Montreal

November 2, 2011
Assalamou alaikoum,

The following is the list of Eid Prayers
, locations and times, in Montreal area. Please note that Eid is on Sunday, November 6th, which is also the first day the "Day Light Saving Time" ends, don't forget to adjust your clock one hour back before going to bed on Saturday, in shaa Allah. Also, please make sure you are at the prayer location 15 to 30 minutes in advance to avoid missing the prayer, which starts before the khutba at the times listed below.

List of the Mosques - Prayer times and locations:
(Two different times indicate two prayers at the same location)

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Canadian Muslims urged to reach out to Horn of Africa in spirit of Ramadan

August 5, 2011
EMERGENCY COMMUNITY APPEAL

Montreal, Quebec, August 5th, 2011- The Muslim Council of Montreal urges all Canadian Muslims to donate generously to the relief efforts in East Africa, in wake of the humanitarian crisis unfolding due to severe drought and famine.

“What is happening in East Africa is absolutely devastating and it is imperative that each of us does whatever we can to help,” stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of MCM. “Over 10 million people are in need of emergency aid, facing starvation, malnutrition and death. These aren’t just statistics; they are innocent men, women and children in need of our immediate assistance. Ramadan should be a time of charity, of helping those in needs and alleviating the suffering of others. We strongly urge everyone to open their hearts and donate generously before it is too late.”
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MCM Announces Ramadan starts on Monday, August 1st, in shaa Allah. Best wishes. Ramadan Mubarak

July 31, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Assalamou alaikoum wa rahmatou Allahi wa barakatouh,

This is to let you know that the moon has been sighted in number of places around the world, in accordance with our agreed upon criteria. Therefore, the first day of Ramadan 1432 will be on Monday, August 1st, 2011, in shaa Allah Taala.


Furthermore, I would like to remind you that the committee has confirmed that this year's Sadaqat-ul-Fitr will continue to be $7.00 per person.

On behalf of MCM, and myself, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all, and your families, a very blessed Ramadan. May Allah Taala make it easy for us, change the conditions of Muslims around the world to the best, bringing the obedience of Allah, faith and safety, peace and prosperity to all Muslims and to accept our fast, prayers, recitations and all of our good deeds in this holy month of Ramadan and beyond, and to continue to shower us with His mercy and blessings.
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Canadian Muslim community urged to get informed, get involved and vote in Federal Elections Monday May 2nd, 2011

April 21, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Montreal, Quebec, April 21st, 2011- The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) urges all Canadian Muslims to actively engage themselves in the political process and prepare themselves to fully participate in the upcoming federal election on May 2nd, 2011.

 

“Voting is a right of all eligible Canadian citizens and it is imperative for all members of our community to take this right seriously,” stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of the MCM. “There are over a million Muslims in Canada. We have a voice and we can make a difference in this election. In order to use our vote wisely and make the best possible decision, every voter must acquaint themselves with the candidates running in their ridings and educate themselves about their platforms and policies.”

 

MCM urges all eligible voters in the Canadian Muslim community to take their civic responsibility of voting as an issue of utmost concern and not underestimate the importance of a single vote. For those unable to vote on Election Day, MCM encourages them to acquaint themselves with the available alternatives, such as advance voting and voting by mail.
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Open letter from Muslim Council of Montreal to MNA Ms. Monique Richard

December 6, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 6th, 2010

Dear Ms. Richard,

On behalf of the Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM), I would like to thank you for your commitment to preserving the values and ideals of Quebec, which is something we all hold dear. However, we believe that your recent comments against the Dar Al Iman School’s eligibility for government subsidies go against these very values that you are supposed to be upholding, and serve no purpose except to increase sentiments of prejudice and discrimination against the Quebec Muslim communities.

Your comments, not backed with substantial evidence, deny the school their right to due process and label them as guilty by means of alleged association. In doing so, you have wronged not only the school itself, but also the parents, students and teachers of the school and you have singled them all out for attack, when in fact they are all tax paying, law abiding, contributing members of Quebec society, sharing the same values and ideals as the rest of society.
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MCM encourages all Canadian Muslims to reach out to others this Eid

November 14, 2010
COMMUNITY ALERT

Montreal, Quebec, November 14th, 2010- The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) calls on all Canadian Muslims to reach out to other Canadians during the celebration of Eid this week. Eid is celebrated on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which coincides this year to the 16th or the 17th of November 2010, based on location and scholars application.


“Eid is a time of happiness and gratitude for all Muslims,” stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of MCM. “We give thanks to God for all that He has blessed us with and spend this joyous time with our family and friends. This Eid, we ask all Canadian Muslims to make an effort to share the beauty of this celebration with their neighbours, coworkers, fellow classmates etc. Prepare a plate of special treats and sweets and share it with them. We are all part of the Canadian fabric and must do our part to reach out to one another and foster understanding and respect.”


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Humanitarian crisis in Haiti: Muslim community launches appeal to help

January 14, 2010
Montreal, Quebec, January 14th, 2010- The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) urges all Canadians to donate generously to help the relief efforts in Haiti, following the devastating earthquake that struck the island nation earlier this week.
 
“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy that has struck Haiti,” stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of MCM. “We strongly urge everyone to donate generously to help the victims and help relieve the suffering of millions. There is critical need of food, clean water, shelter and emergency medical attention. Everyone must do their part to help, in whatever way possible. At the same time, we remind everyone to give thanks for their blessings and pray for all the victims.”
                      
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MCM announces Ramadan starts on Saturday, August 22nd, in shaa Allah

August 20, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The moon has not been sighted anywhere in our matlaa, and according to the agreed upon criteria, MCM Imams' committee decided on Thursday night, August 20th, that tomorrow is the 30th of Shaaban. Therefore, the first day of Ramadan will be on Saturday, August 22nd, 2009.

 

On behalf of MCM, and myself, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all, and your families, a very blessed Ramadan. May Allah Taala make it easy for us, change the conditions of Muslims around the world to the best, bringing obedience of Allah, faith and safety, peace and prosperity to all Muslims and to accept our fast, prayers and all of our good deeds in this holy month of Ramadan and beyond, and to continue to shower us with His mercy and blessing.

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Endorse the "Open Letter" to Mr. Harper

January 16, 2009
The Muslim Council of Montreal calls on Canadian organizations to join in co-signing an open letter to Canadian Prime Minister Mr. Stephen Harper. The letter demands that Mr. Harper take swift action in calling for an immediate ceasefire of Israeli attacks in Gaza, in addition to an end of the blockade on Gaza.

Preview the letter: Gaza-HarperLetter.pdf

Preview all the signatures: EndorsingEnglish.pdf

Endorse the open letter to Harper

Canadian government should take immediately firm action against Israel's ongoing assault on Gaza

January 3, 2009


Muslim Council of Montreal calls on all people of conscience to contact the Canadian government immediately to demand firm action against Israel's ongoing assault on Gaza

 

Montreal, Quebec, Jan. 4th, 2008- The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) calls on all Canadians to contact their Member of Parliament, as well as the Canadian Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister and demand for immediate intervention, calling for a ceasefire and an end to the blockade on Gaza. 

 

"Our government was elected to represent our voices and our concerns," stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of MCM. "It is our obligation to contact them and demand that they strongly condemn and stop the ongoing massacre of innocent men, women and children in Gaza. If Canada has any commitment to justice and world peace, then the time to act is now."

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Take Action to End the Israeli Attacks on Gaza

December 29, 2008
Today, the Israeli Air Force attacks on the Aned without the complacent silence of the international community. Any just solution has to be anchored in international, humanitarian and human rights law.

Therefore, action is needed to protest this attack and demand that our government call for an immediate cease-fire and for the lifting of the siege to allow for the delivery of aid and fuel, as well as free access for international humanitarian organisations, journalists and diplomats, which Israel has blocked.
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MCM CALLS ON ALL CANADIANS TO CONTACT THE GOVERNMENT CONCERNING BILL C-3

December 5, 2007

Montreal, Quebec, December 5th, 2007- The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) calls on all Canadians to contact their local MPs and the members of the Public Safety Committee to voice their concerns over Bill C-3.

 

MCM reprimands the government for presenting a new bill that is merely a rehash of the old Security Certificate law with few changes, such as the introduction of a "special advocate." MCM believes that these changes do not meet the basic minimum requirements for fundamental justice as ordered by the Supreme Court Justices, who abolished the original security certificate law last year, declaring it unconstitutional.

 

MCM further censures the government for rushing to pass the Bill through Parliament, without giving community organizations a chance to participate in the hearings of the Public Safety Committee.

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CONTACT HARPER TO DEMAND JUSTICE FOR MAHER ARAR

October 3, 2006

(Montreal, Quebec, Oct. 2, 2006) - The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) calls on the Muslim community to stand up for Mr. Maher Arar and for justice, by contacting Mr. Stephen Harper.

According to a recent report released by Mr. Justice Dennis O’Connor, RCMP investigators wrongly provided inaccurate, unfair and overstated evidence about Mr. Arar, causing him to be labelled as a terrorist threat and suffer deportation, detention and torture overseas. The report declares Mr. Arar’s innocence, highlights the wrongdoings of CSIS and the RCMP and proposes a series of recommendations to the federal government.

Please contact Mr. Stephen Harper, as well as your Member of Parliament, to demand that the federal government do the following:

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CANADA MUST CONDEMN ISRAEL'S ATROCITIES

July 17, 2006
CANADA MUST CONDEMN ISRAEL'S ATROCITIES, SAY CANADIAN MUSLIMS AND ARABS
ISRAELI OCCUPATION OF ARAB LANDS IN PALESTINE, SYRIA, AND LEBANON CAUSING DEATH, DESTRUCTION AND MISERY
Following the killing of eight Canadian civilians in Lebanon on Sunday by the Israeli army, Canada's largest Arab and Muslim groups today issued a strong collective warning to the Harper government, urging that it immediately condemn Israeli atrocities in Gaza and Lebanon.

The groups also emphasized that the current conflict has nothing to do with religion, but is clearly caused by the illegal Israeli occupation of Arab lands. The groups also said that Israel should immediately stop its aggression against Lebanon and Gaza

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Please Send A Word Of Thanks To The Calgary Jewish Community Council And The Canadian Jewish Congress Regarding Their Positions On The Cartoon Issue

February 13, 2006

Montreal Feb 13, 2006: The Muslim Council Of Montreal (MCM) takes this opportunity to thank the Calgary Jewish Community Council and the Canadian Jewish Congress regarding their respective positions on the offensive cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him). MCM encourages the Muslim community to send a word of thanks to these two organizations for their positions.

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