Montreal, Quebec, Dec. 14th, 2006- The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) applauds the ruling of The Quebec Human Rights Tribunal in the case of Mr. Somen Chowdhury and Mrs. Sumita Chowdhury.
“This ruling is sending a clear message against racists and xenophobes,” stated Salam Elmenyawi, president of MCM. “It is essential for us to recognize hate-crimes for the heinous crimes they are and be proactive in fighting racial and religious discrimination. ”
The couple, who immigrated to Canada from India over 20 years ago, were physically and verbally attacked near Angrignon Park in 2002 by two young women. According to the ruling of the Quebec Human Rights Tribunal it was a hate-motivated assault and in violation of articles 1, 4 and 10 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Tribunal has awarded the Chowdhurys a total of $28,000 in damages.
“People from all over the world have come to Canada and made this country their home,” Elmenyawi said. “They contribute to Canadian society in numerous positive ways and help to make this country a better place. It is important to educate ourselves about the diversity and multicultural makeup of our country and eradicate the racism and discrimination that still plagues our society.”
CONTACT:
Salam Elmenyawi
Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM)
Ph.: (514) 748-8427
Fax: (514) 747-9139
E-mail: info@muslimcouncil.org
Website: http://www.muslimcouncil.org
The Muslim Council of Montreal (MCM) is an umbrella organization representing a number of Islamic institutions in the Montreal region. There are over 150,000 Muslims in Montreal, about 750,000 in Canada and 1.5 billion worldwide.
