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In a democracy, we are free to express our opinions and grievances. However, this must be done while adhering to the principles of fairness and empathy.
Article author:
Luqman Ahmed – Montreal Gazette Feature
Published date May 16, 2024 • Last updated 6 minutes ago • Reading time 3 minutes
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Blank tags are posted at the pro-Palestinian encampment on McGill grounds for people to leave messages. “It is necessary that a peaceful environment be fostered,” writes Imam Luqman Ahmed.Photo by Dave Sidaway/Montreal Gazette
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Recent weeks have seen a wave of student protests at various Canadian universities demanding an end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The organizers and participants of these demonstrations are motivated by genuine concern. However, some protests are said to be unnecessarily harsh and cause undue inconvenience to both the university and the general population.
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In my work as Imam of the Ahmadiyya Islamic Youth Association, I have discussed war extensively with enthusiastic young people. Many of these young people are studying at universities across the country. Our conclusion is that it is vitally important that Canadians advocate for justice and stand up against all forms of oppression. Their pleas and demands should be heard and considered by the authorities. However, such protests and demonstrations should be conducted in a peaceful and constructive manner. Otherwise, the demonstration will lose its real value and purpose.
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It is important to recognize that these individuals have a passionate belief in their cause. They may think it is absolutely just and just. However, resorting to illegal or destructive behavior is never a constructive approach. If a protest disrupts the academic environment and causes undue inconvenience to other students or the rest of the public, they will immediately lose all benefits and support.
At the same time, it is important to recognize the underlying grievances that are driving these protests. When individuals feel excluded or unheard, they may resort to extreme measures to draw attention to their plight. Therefore, while condemning wrongdoing, it is equally important to address the root cause of the complaint.
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The essence of democracy is the freedom of people to express their opinions and grievances. In a pluralistic society like Canada, where diversity of thought is celebrated, it is incumbent upon authorities to engage in constructive dialogue with protesters. Ignoring their demands without due consideration will only exacerbate feelings of alienation and fuel extremism. Every voice, idea, and demand that has the support of millions of people deserves consideration, regardless of whether it aligns with the prevailing narrative.
The widespread support garnered by these protests highlights the gravity of the issue at hand. A growing number of people are calling for an end to the violence in Gaza and advocating for a peaceful solution. Their concerns resonate deeply with those who uphold the principles of justice and mercy. Authorities therefore have an obligation to heed these calls and work towards promoting dialogue and reconciliation. It is necessary to foster a peaceful environment.
In the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, we often emphasize that protests lose their credibility when they turn into suicide bombings and acts of violence, as we have seen on American college campuses. By upholding the principles of justice and nonviolence, we not only lend credibility to our cause, but also inspire others to join us in the pursuit of a better world.
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Fundamentally, we must remember that advocating for justice should transcend religious and ethnic backgrounds. This is a fundamental tenet of humanity that requires us to equally defend the dignity and rights of all individuals. Therefore, it is important to approach any issue with objectivity and empathy, without bias or prejudice. By accepting these principles, we are on the right side of history. We will be defenders of justice, advocates for the oppressed, and defenders against tyranny and oppression. In doing so, we uphold our values as Canadians and contribute to a more just and equitable society for all.
I implore each situation, whether it be university protests related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or any other issue, to be addressed with a firm commitment to justice and fairness. Let us not let our prejudices and prejudices deviate us from the path of what is essentially right and just.
Luqman Ahmed is an imam (missionary) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in Canada. He lives in Brossard.
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