Muslim Awareness Week 2024
Muslim Awareness Week (MAW) is a yearly week of solidarity and exchange where people of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs are invited to learn about the achievements, contributions, aspirations and concerns of Quebecers of Muslim faith. Born as a grassroots response to the tragic shooting at a mosque on January 29, 2017 that killed 6 men, the 2024 edition runs from January 25th through February 1st. The goal: Getting to know each other! Through dialogue, bridge building and willingness to navigate the challenges of our pluralistic society with an open heart, we hope to move forward towards greater inclusion and equity here in Quebec as well as beyond our borders. We encourage you to visit the MAW web page to view the different events and participate!
MORSL is pleased to take part in activities that support MAW by raising awareness of the vibrant and diverse Muslim students, faculty and staff at McGill, and by creating opportunities for Muslims and non-Muslims to come together to learn and spark friendships. In addition to numerous events in the wider community, the events below are of particular interest to the McGill community. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and is subject to updates and modifications:
Friday, January 26 at 5:30 - 8:00 PM: McGill CCIQ Memorial Award: Breaking Barriers & Building Bridges This panel event, hosted by the McGill Muslim Alumni Society, features pioneering McGill alumnae who have received the McGill CCIQ Memorial Award. Learn about the panelists' life experiences, the challenges they face as Muslim women in Canada, and the impact of the CCIQ Memorial Award on their work, as well as how you can build a more peaceful and understanding Canadian society.
Monday, January 29 at 11:00 AM: 2024 National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City mosque attack and action against Islamophobia Annual McGill commemoration event for the victims of the January 29, 2017, Quebec City Mosque shooting. The event is open to all members of the McGill community and also welcomes the participation of the general public. The event will be held online and livestreamed at: https://youtube.com/live/0_mD_eQljxY
Wednesday, January 31 at 4:30 - 5:30 PM: Unpacking the Dynamics of Islamophobia in Canada-Challenges and Opportunities This lecture is offered by Amira Elghawaby, an award-winning journalist and human rights advocate, was appointed by the Prime Minister as Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia on January 2023. Amira has been actively involved in initiatives countering hate and promoting inclusion, including as a founding board member of the Canadian Anti-Hate Network. During this public lecture, Amira will address her efforts to tackle Islamophobia in Canada, and opportunities to create more inclusive environments on university campuses. This event is part of a series of several events on campus marking Muslim Awareness Week. Registration required.
Sunday, February 4 at 1:00- 5:00 PM: Visit to Canadian Institute of Islamic Civilization: Exhibit on the Golden Age of Islam (students only). MORSL's flagship series "My Neighbour’s Faith" continues with this outing to the Canadian Institute of Islamic Civilization for an exhibit to discover the contributions of Islamic civilization to science, knowledge, and philosophy. We will also tour the centre, visit the mosque, and enjoy a discussion about Islamic beliefs and practices. Expand your religious literacy and mark Muslim Awareness Week with us! Students of all backgrounds are welcome but must register in advance.
Stay tuned for more events to mark the week!
