Canadian Muslims criticize closure of Anti-Islamophobia Office
The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) has criticized the federal government’s decision to abolish two offices dedicated to combating Islamophobia and antisemitism, warning the move could weaken protections for vulnerable communities amid rising hate incidents.
The government announced this week that the Office of the Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia and the Office of the Special Envoy on Combatting Antisemitism will be merged into a new Advisory Council on Rights, Equality and Inclusion. Identity Minister Marc Miller said the change aims to create a more unified national approach and is not a cost-cutting measure.
NCCM said the Muslim community “deserves sustained and dedicated leadership” and expressed concern that folding the offices into a broader council could dilute efforts to address Islamophobia. The group also raised concerns about the closure of the antisemitism envoy’s office, stressing the importance of both mandates.
Jewish advocacy organizations, including the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs and B’nai Brith Canada, also urged the government to ensure the new structure does not weaken efforts to combat antisemitism and extremism.
The government has not yet released details on the council’s composition. Former prime minister Justin Trudeau appointed Amira Elghawaby as Canada’s special representative on Islamophobia in January 2023 following a series of anti-Muslim attacks. Canada is home to about 1.8 million Muslims.
