This was an editorial I wrote regarding Muslim charities in Canada and how they are being treated by the Canada Revenue Agency. It was published by the National Post and can be read over here.

The CRA’s approach to countering radicalization jeopardizes the effectiveness of the government’s overall efforts and is at odds with Canada’s national strategy on countering radicalization to violence, which recognizes the significance of empowering faith communities as a vital component of countering radicalization.

As an imam with over a decade of experience in this area, I have assisted my community to directly work with CSIS and the RCMP. I have dedicated countless hours to guiding young people in celebrating Canada as their own and stress to them that they are just like everyone else, and are thus deserving of the same rights and opportunities. I have witnessed thousands of young individuals become proud, contributing members of Canadian society. Yet I have also seen a few lose their way and struggle to fully connect with their identity as Canadians.

The CRA’s actions are causing profound harm to Muslims in Canada by treating the community as the “other.” The reality is that the revocation of the charitable status of Muslim charities only serves to alienate Canadian youth, which undermines the government’s efforts to advance integration and prevent radicalization to violence.

This is a paper I wrote with Dr. Stephanie Carvin from Carleton University. It was published by the Organization for the Prevention of Violence and can be read over here . If you’d like a PDF copy you can download it from here.

From the Introduction

Hate, unfortunately, has a home in Canada. Over the course of the last several years there has been a surge in hate crimes, many of which target the Muslim Community.

In January of 2017, six individuals —Ibrahima Barry (39 years old), Mamadou Tanou Barry (42 years old), Khaled Belkacemi (60 years old), Aboubaker Thabti (44 years old), AbdelKrim Hassane (41 years old), and Azzedine Soufiane (57 years old)— were shot and killed, and 19 others wounded in an attack on a mosque by Alexandre Bissonnette in Quebec City.

In September of 2020 International Muslim Organization Mosque caretaker Mohamed Aslam Zafis (58 years old) had his throat slit outside of the Rexdale area mosque in Ontario.

Then in June of 2021 the Afzaal family in London, Ontario, was struck by a pickup truck while taking a leisurely walk. Salman, (46 years old), Talat, (74 years old), Madiha (44 years old), and Yumna (15 years old) were all killed. Fayez (9 years old) survived the attack, having lost his father, mother, sister, and grandmother.

There have been ongoing hate crimes against Muslims, such as a series of attacks against hijab wearing Black Muslim women in Alberta. The pandemic may have accelerated this worrying trend, with Statistics Canada data indicating that police-reported hate crimes rising 37% in 2020.2

The purpose of the paper is to provide an overview of the far-right extremist ecosystem in Canada that can serve as a resource for the Muslim community, as well as other groups and individuals who seek to better inform themselves for the purpose of countering this threat. It also seeks to advance ideas for how to counter this threat, while appreciating the complexity of the phenomenon.

It provides an overview of far-right extremism, a history of these movements in Canada, an overview of far-right movements today and policy ideas that may further action by all levels of government, and communities themselves.

With 20 years having passed by what lessons can we learn in the Canadian context. I was fortunate to join former ambassadors Kerry Buck (NATO) and Sabine Nolke (Neatherlands), as well as Tabassum Akseer from the Asia Foundation.

Watch here.

One of my first Media interviews in 2015 where I address why some Canadians joining DAESH and going down a path of violent extremism. I address the importance of having purpose and meaning in life, as well as taking a whole society approach.

Watch here.

This is a blog post on Islamic Leadership I co-authored with Omar Usman (AKA Ibn Abee Omar). You can read the full article here.

The various hadith we find pertaining to leadership in Islam are more petrifying than they are encouraging. This fear may sometimes push the right people away. Leadership from an Islamic perspective requires at least four characteristics: 

1. Sincerity

2. Required knowledge for the position

3. The ability to influence and persuade. 

4. A personality that is not easily swayed (fickle). 

If those that have religious grounding and God consciousness keep avoiding positions of leadership in our community, the leadership conundrum will never resolve itself. 

Leadership requires questioning your intentions, being in the service of the people you lead, and continuing to grow your skill set. Abu Bakr (ra) did not feel ready for the position he was walking into, but what a formidable leader he was when he passed away.  

This was an editorial I wrote with Dr. Stephanie Carvin from Carleton University. It was published by the Globe and Mail and can be read over here.

Meaningful discussion about the impact of national security practices could also go some way toward establishing or building back trust in the places where it has been damaged. Trust continues to be the social license that national security agencies in democracies require, and while some may hope that time will simply heal all wounds, the process cannot begin without sincere efforts at understanding.

This was an event hosted by Yaqeen Canada remembering the death of the 6 people killed in the Quebec City Mosque attack in 2017. My presentation was an overview of Islamophobia in Canada. I’ve updated my slides since the presentation which you can view here.

You can also view the whole presentation which includes myself and the following:
1- Dr. Salam El-Majzoub talking about the Pscyhological Impact of Islamophobia.
2- Imam Ibrahim Hindy talking about Countering Narratives to Islamophobia.
3- Mustafa Farooq talking about Quebec secularism and Bill C-21.

The video can be viewed here.

I was interviewed by Dr. Stephanie Carvin for this episode. Where we spoke about about the double standards, the use of language, and how do we counter Islamophobia in the Canadian National Security Context. You can listen to it here

I wrote an op-ed for the Washington Post about the Quebec Mosque shooting, and the role Islamophobia plays into radicalization. You can read about it here

The amazing journalist Nadim Roberts did a cover story on me for the Walrus Magazine called: “Peace be Upon You” you can read it here.

 I spoke with Omar Usman of Debt Free Muslims for a discussion on Islamic mortgages, student loans, and Halal car purchases.

Listen at Debt Free Muslims.

Bullet Point Notes on My Talk:

“The Truth Behind What Motivates Us”

1- In preliminary societies people were motivated by their basic necessities. Food, water, shelter, procreation.

2- Once we developed a little we developed a reward and punishment system, also known as the carrot and stick system. The basis of this is the example of donkey if you dangle a carrot in front of him he will continue to work, if he doesn’t then you beat him with the stick. The crunchier the carrot and the sharper the stick the more the donkey will respond.

3- This system brought about the following negative traits: a) Diminished intrinsic motivationb) Lower performance c) Less creativityd) Cheating and taking of short cutse) Addictions f) Shortcomings

4- What truly motivates people: a) Autonomy b) Masteryc) Purpose

5- True Autonomy is in Paradise when people are free from burden and have what they desire. Mastery, is found in constant seeking of knowledge and growth, which are both heavily emphasized in Islam. Purpose is to live for other than yourself.

6- Further motivation is found in finding Love, Recognition, Certainty, Adventure.

7- What are incentives of the people of the dunya (3:14): a) Womenb) Childrenc) Wealth d) Transporte) Property

8- What are the incentives of the people of taqwa (3:15) a) Gardens with riversb) Eternal lifec) Pure spousesd) Pleasure of Allah

9- Fear as motivation will fall short if not accompanied by pleasure. Allah combines both in the quran. 15: 49-50. Fear wares out very quickly.

10- The ultimate motivation is variation in pleasure (Good in this life, rewards of the hereafter, seeing Allah) along with variation in punishment (difficulty in this life, punishment in the hell fire, being deprived of good in the eternal life)

Refer to Drive by Daniel Pink for more information. Here is a good summary:http://www.bakadesuyo.com/2011/05/what-really-motivates-us/

These are my notes to a lecture I gave in Putrajaya, Malaysia on April 25th, 2015.

1- There is lack in sense of urgency. If you do not have a strong enough reason to change you will not change.

2- Unclear Vision: You have not clearly defined what that change is and what needs to take place to make it happen. The clearer the vision the easier the change. Focus on S.M.A.R.T goals.

3- Those around you. The people you surround yourself with need to be those who are supportive, like minded, and those that have a similar vision to you. When you are not selective of those you surround yourself with you will only bring yourself down. Never allow your critics to become your C.E.Os.

4- Change will only take place by taking action. What prevents us from taking action? Things that are discussed in this dua:

http://goo.gl/a2g8wH

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It’s not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

Fear of Allah enables. Fear of others paralyzes.You will never lose fear. Learn to master it and control it. As Mr. Miyagi said: Okay to lose to opponent, must not lose to fear!

5- Short term wins: You need to take baby steps and celebrate those steps. Drastic change is next to impossible. Realize that change takes time.

6- The motivation you need to keep going: I gave a separate lecture on this topic that evening. The notes for it can be found here: http://goo.gl/XD7D36

7- Making change stick. Don’t go on a diet rather change your life style 

8- Sins. Fear your sins more than you fear your enemy.

9- Dua’: Surah 20: 24-46. Your most important tool.

“I have created you for myself” (20:41)Resources: Heart of change by Kotter. An Agenda Towards Changing our Condition by Hamza Yusuf

I sat down for an interview with Shelby Daigle of the Muslim Link back in March 2015, right before the I.LEAD conference in Ottawa. We discussed several topics including my work on de-radicalization, the crisis of Islamic scholarship and other issues.

Access the interview here.

We are truly blessed in Canada that we have not faced a major terrorist atrocity, as of yet, and I pray it stays that way. A first impression is a lasting impression, as we are always told. It is with this principle I remind my fellow Canadian Muslims to be the first exposure that your fellow Canadians have with Islam. Combating perceptions set in by media is very difficult, however if we each do our part a great difference can be made. Being visibly Muslim, while opening doors, smiling at people, thanking them, doing random acts of kindness, helping the poor, standing for the weak, and being honest, and truthful (all the very basics of our faith), in our interactions is all that is required to create a first and lasting impression.

Mosques need to become more visitor friendly and hold more open houses so everyone can come and see what happens in our prayer spaces. Let them see the human aspects of our spaces from runny taps, to parking disasters. Let them see the tranquility of prayer, and the beautiful recitation of the Quran. Let them ask questions that are on their mind. Most importantly let us show them the hospitality, and amazing foods, that our history and culture are known for.

Muslims, need to set up more information sessions about Islam and the misconceptions that many have regarding it. We cannot let the media be the only source of education for our fellow Canadians.

“If we don’t create a narrative where we are the hero, someone else will create a narrative where we are the villain.”

Muslims, need to contribute back to the societies that they are a part of, and they need to document it. Not for the sake of showing off but for the sake of countering the argument that we don’t have much to offer. The tide is drastically changing, and most people no longer buy into the propaganda of Islam being a violent religion (Muslims is trending on twitter, have a look for yourself). However, we do need to do our part and make sure it is not hidden.

The best way to leave a good impression? Just be the good Muslim the Prophet Mohammad swed us how to be.

On International Human Rights Day, December 10th, 2015, I was asked to host a diversity and sensitivity training for the Calgary Police Service, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Calgary Fire Brigade, and EMS. It was my first time ever hosting an event like this but it was still an absolutely amazing experience for myself. To be able to discuss my faith with people that are willing to sacrifice their lives for the protection and safety of this country was priceless. My only regret was that I wish I had initiated such outreach programs earlier. It is with that sentiment that I write this post. There is a lot of misinformation out there about Islam, and that is what is causing a lot of fear and Islamophobic events. 

From the things we discussed: What is Islam and Who are Muslims?– What does Islam mean?– What do Muslims believe?– What do Muslims practice? 

Demographics of Muslims in the world, Canada, and Calgary– Population. – Ethnicity (only 20% of Muslims are actually Arab)– History of Muslims in Canada. (The first mosque in Canada was built in Edmonton in 1939). – The different sects in Islam. – The different organizations that exist in Calgary that represent the Muslim community. 

Misconceptions about Islam– Women aren’t oppressed in Islam. It is cultural practices that are often confused with the faith. – Islam does not condone violence and terrorism. In fact less than 0.0001% have joined extremist groups. The rest of the community condemns the actions of an extreme fringe minority. 

What are the sensitivities to be kept in mind when interacting with Muslims1- Sanctity of Faith 2- Gender roles (Conservative Muslims might not feel comfortable shaking hands with the opposite gender)3- Dress code 4- Food and Drink restrictions (No pork and no alcohol)5- Prayer timings. 

How can we better foster healthier relationships with the Muslim community1- Build rapport and trust. (Get to know sensitivities)2- Have outreach programs. (For law enforcement it is very important to interact with the community in non-confrontational environments)3- Be familiar with simple phrases4- Come break bread on ethnic food (You can never go wrong with this one  

If you’re interested in learning more, would like to hold a similar presentation, or would like a copy of the powerpoint I delivered please contact me.

I am all about building bridges, and would love to know how you think together we can make the world a safer and better place.

Shaykh Navaid Aziz conducting the Muslim Sensitivity and Diversity training at the Islamic Information Society of Calgary in November, 2016.

On November 29th the Islamic Information Society of Calgary hosted members of the Calgary Police Service as well as the Fire Brigade for Muslim Sensitivity Training. The training session conducted by Sh. Navaid Aziz consisted of 4 sections:

1- What do Muslims believe and practice.

2- Facts about Muslims globally, nationally, and provincially.

3- Misconceptions about Islam

4- How to harbor a healthy relationship with the Muslim community.

On November 30th, Sh. Navaid delivered the same presentation to counselors and psychologists at the Calgary Distress Center.

Both presentations were well received and were a gateway to great dialogue and discussion in the question and answer session.

If you would like to invite Sh. Navaid to present to your organization or if you would like a copy of the presentation please contact us.

1- We are living an ethical and moral crisis that is just getting worse. We are deluded into thinking that if we cure the symptoms it will cure the disease. The vices defined by our faith are vices due to their inherent evil and the evil that is a consequence of them. Imagine how different this story would be if no alcohol was consumed.

2- Sometimes all people want to know is that you care. They will push you away and tell you to leave them alone but if this series taught you anything is that if you see someone distressed put your own feelings aside and let them know you care.

3- Even though we are more connected that ever we are also lonelier than ever. Just because you see people being social it doesn’t mean they don’t have an emptiness inside.

4- There is a serious crisis in the way men perceive and treat women. As there is a serious crisis in the way women perceive themselves. The parts where I cringed the most, after the suicide scene, were the scenes where the women were being abused. I dread the days that my daughters grow up in a society where men treat women like mere objects and worse. We need to further educate on how men and women interact without being to0 strict and without being too liberal at the same time.

5- There are certain people so evil in the world that their hearts have been completely sealed and they are no longer able to distinguish between reality and the perversion of their hearts and minds. (Specifically Bryce in the last episode)

6- Even good people will do bad things. What makes these people good is their willingness to rectify their mistakes. When you see someone trying to rectify a mistake embrace it and make it easy not more difficult. Never let your ego get in the way of doing the right thing

7- Not every harm in this life can or will be forgiven, and that is okay. Just make sure you never intentionally inflict that kind of wound as the guilt may hurt you more than the infliction did to the person harmed.

8- Never underestimate the value of kindness to another human being. Never miss an opportunity to be kind. Never miss an opportunity to ask if people are okay. Never miss an opportunity to ask people if there is anything you can do to help.

9- It is very easy to be come desensitized to vice. You have to always pay very close attention to your heart in the presence of vice and make sure it doesn’t become normalized.

10- People need to believe in more than just this life. In order to survive people need faith in something beyond themselves. I can only imagine how Hannah could have reacted differently if she did believe in a day where all injustices are fixed, a day where she will be questioned about her decisions.

11- There are serious issues that need to be addressed in schools, especially Muslim schools, like bullying, body shaming, suicide prevention, substance abuse, and much more. These are just as much an epidemic in our schools as they are in others.

12- Suicide should never be an option. We need people in every community that are trained in spotting suicidal behavior and are willing to help people out.

13- Innocence is lost. Gone are the days where childhood was simple. Family dynamics were simple. Life was simple. And it will never be again.

Concluding remarks: This series definitely does a good job in creating conversation on some very important topics. However, due to the gory nature of the show I would not advise youngsters to watch this without parental consent, nor would I advise anyone who has suicidal thoughts to watch this. There are also very graphic scenes which we as Muslims should not intentionally expose ourselves to, and in an ideal world should be creating our own media outlets where important conversation is created without the profanity and vulgarity. Lastly, as Muslims we can’t shy away from dialogue and discussion on important issues like suicide, mental health, bullying, domestic violence and more. We need to gauge the pulse of our community and seriously start discussing how we can attempt to fix the problems in our community and society.

To see the original post and join in on the Facebook discussion.

I sat down with Ibrahim Hindy to discuss the recent events surrounding UFC fighters Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor at UFC 229. The discussion focused on the impact on the Muslim community and other relevant issues.

Listen here.

I recently had a conversation with Razia Hamidi on the DiscoverU Podcast, where we spoke about guiding values and inspiration.

Listen here.