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Jagmeet Singh Meets Vancouver’s Muslim Community: A Night of Dialogue, Solidarity, and Advocacy for Human Rights
4-22-2025
Vancouver, BC – April 18, 2025
In an evening marked by powerful words and passionate commitment to justice, Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada’s federal New Democratic Party (NDP), met with the Muslim community of Vancouver for a heartfelt and timely discussion on human rights, peace, and international accountability. Hosted by AlAmeen Post and held at the MAC Vancouver Centre, the event welcomed approximately 150 community members with less than 24 hours' notice, reflecting the urgency and gravity of the moment.
A Community United
The program opened with Shahzad Mansoory, who acknowledged the swift turnout and introduced program coordinator Khalid Hussain Chohan. Chohan, in turn, welcomed attendees and recognized several prominent community leaders and guests, including:
Don Davies, MP for Vancouver Kingsway
Manoj Bhangu, NDP Candidate for Vancouver Fraserview–South Burnaby
Dr. Ali Mihrig, President of Iqra Islamic School and former BCMA President
Raza Mirani, Secretary -Pakistan-Canada Association
Amin Khan, President of Pashtun Cultural Association
Haroon Khan, Trustee of the Pakistan-Canada Association
Imam Sarfaraz of Jamea Masjid Vancouver
Mahmood Awan, former BCMA Trustee
Chohan praised Singh’s vision and leadership, stating, “Mr. Jagmeet’s leadership inspires us to fight for the political rights of ordinary people and human rights around the world.”
Voices for Justice
MP Don Davies expressed his pride in representing Vancouver Kingsway, home to the MAC Centre, highlighting the importance of the Muslim community in shaping Canadian society. He stressed the need for Canada to reevaluate its foreign policy, especially in light of ongoing atrocities in Gaza.
Davies was frank in his criticism of Canada's political inaction, particularly regarding the ICJ's provisional ruling of genocide in Gaza. “There are still politicians in Canada who won’t even use that word,” he said, referencing the term "genocide." He commended the NDP for being the only party to use clear language and take a firm stance.
Dr. Mihrig: The Political Reality
Dr. Ali Mihrig offered a sobering overview of Canada's historic and current political positions regarding Palestine. He criticized both Conservative and Liberal parties for their unwavering support of Israel, including continued arms exports. Dr. Mihrig praised Singh for his moral clarity, stating, “There is no point whatsoever for the Muslim community to vote Liberal because we have been deceived.”
He encouraged the community to support a minority government, with the NDP holding the balance of power to influence policy in favor of human rights.
Jagmeet Singh: A Call to Conscience
In his keynote speech, Jagmeet Singh expressed deep gratitude to the MAC Centre and community volunteers, singling out Jafar Bhamji and Khalid Chohan for their efforts.
Singh spoke from personal conviction, sharing how his upbringing, grounded in compassion and service, continues to guide his politics. “If anyone around us is suffering, then we’re also suffering,” he said, crediting his mother for instilling this belief.
He emphasized the NDP's early and unequivocal call for a ceasefire in Gaza, and a ban on arms exports to Israel, as well as sanctions against Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israel’s war cabinet. Singh declared that words matter, and naming the violence for what it is—genocide—is essential for justice.
“We are the only political party in North America that used the word ‘genocide’ to describe what is happening in Gaza—and we did so early,” Singh said.
He reinforced his belief in a minority parliament, citing the NDP’s historic role in advancing Medicare, dental care, pharmacare, and labor rights. “Canada is always better when no single party holds all the power,” he said, urging the Muslim community to once again send New Democrats to Ottawa.
Community Reflections and Engagement
Following Singh’s remarks, Raza Mirani praised his courageous performance in the national debate. Mirani referenced a moment when a Conservative leader said immigrants should “leave their politics behind,” contrasting that with Singh’s affirmation of multiculturalism as a strength, not a weakness. “You were the only one who stood up for us,” he said.
Mirani also led a robust Q&A session, where topics ranged from Palestine to affordability, housing, healthcare, and youth concerns—issues deeply relevant to everyday Canadians, especially new immigrants.
A Night of Solidarity
The evening concluded with a heartfelt thank-you note by Mohammed Kamal of MAC Vancouver Centre, who acknowledged the NDP team and Singh's moral stance. “Thank you for standing firm for truth and justice,” Kamal said.
After the formal program, Jagmeet Singh stayed to personally meet attendees, continuing conversations that highlighted the strength of community, unity, and shared purpose.
This meet-and-greet event went far beyond pleasantries. It was a rare and honest space for political engagement—where compassion met policy, and where voices long unheard were affirmed and empowered. As the 2025 federal election approaches, the message from Vancouver’s Muslim community was clear: justice, representation, and accountability are not optional—they are essential.
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