According to Rahyafte(the missionaries and converts website)A few hundred students and supporters took part in the Shalwar Kameez walk against Islamophobia and Racism.
Shalwar kameez refers to the traditional loose-fitting clothing worn by many Muslim men and women. Some of the speakers at Friday’s walk said the June 6 attack highlighted something they’ve long known: That being visibly Muslim can turn any follower of Islam into a target.
“We are tired of living in fear,” said Rubina Malik, a graduate student of Pakistani descent and one of the organizer’s of Friday’s walk. “Going out for a walk in your shalwar, your turban, your hijab or your skin should never incite looks of disgust, nods of dismissal, words of hate and least of all, death.”
Dr. Fatimah Jackson-Best, a public health researcher who focuses on communities in Canada and the Caribbean, said Muslim women are particularly vulnerable.
“We wear our faith on our bodies, so we become prime targets,” she said.
Opiyo Oloya, Western’s newly hired associate vice-president of equity, diversity and inclusion, offered support from the campus community for students who’ve become targets of racism and anti-Islamic hate.
“The hate and fear directed towards you must end now,” he said. “I also say to you: This is not your problem. You did not create Islamophobia. You did not create hate. To the contrary, you have contributed to the beautiful fabric of our communities.”
After hearing from the speakers, a group of a few hundred students, many carrying signs, walked around campus. Organizers hope to make the walk an annual event.
Source: CBC News
