WLUFA Denounces Trump Executive Action and Stands in Solidarity with our Muslim Community

[Posted on behalf of the WLUFA Executive.]

Ignorance is not bliss; it is a danger to society.

WLUFA stands in solidarity with Muslims and others who condemn the Executive Order taken by Donald Trump that bans citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States. We also extend our sympathies for and solidarity with Canadian Muslims as they respond to the tragic act of terrorism that killed six and injured eight worshippers at the Centre Culturel Islamique de Quebec this week.

In a bold and undemocratic move, and without involving Congress, Trump exercised his authority as U.S. President to sign an Executive Order that is nothing but a thin veil for racism and religious intolerance. Such an act of prejudice comes from ignorance and extremism, and extremists like Donald Trump should learn that they have no place in this era or in people’s hearts and minds around the globe.

As academics, as Canadians and as global citizens, we see the two events as inextricably connected, and wish especially to emphasize our support for Muslim members of WLUFA and of our University community as a whole.

Freedom of religion is a fundamental right, and a person’s faith should not be used as a basis to violate and intimidate people. Trump’s actions risk destroying the culture of diversity that we have been working at building for decades in North America.

This Executive Order needs to be strongly condemned through the united and compassionate voice of all Canadians. Hate crimes and acts of terrorism as we saw in Quebec City this week will only increase when governments create the broader conditions for racism to breed. Being “Canadian” has no relationship to religion, race, creed, gender or sexual orientation. Being human(e) compels us to try to rise above the primitive thinking that underlies these acts of violence and division.

Today, more than ever, the world needs to stand up for the values that can promote and strengthen principles of openness and inclusivity. It is time for all Canadians to unite against the imposition of divisive forces or attitudes.

Citizens across the country have begun to organize for a National Day of Solidarity against Islamophobia and Racism this Friday, February 4. WLUFA will keep you informed of any campus involvement planned for that day as we hear of it.

Sincerely,

Your WLUFA Executive