World Religion Day

January 15, 2012 was declared by the town of Uxbridge as the World Religion Day by the town’s mayor Gerri Lynn O’Connor, as people from various parts of Durham region gathered in the town’s arena to celebrate this day.

Organized by the Durham Multi-faith World Religion Day committee, representing 8 diverse faith groups with their followers gathered at the Town’s arena to listen to the speeches followed by Q & A period. This year’s format was engaging and connected the audience directly with the speakers on a one to one basis. Each speaker was allowed a 4 minute presentation followed by questions from the audience of equal time. For many, it was a learning experience.

Pickering Islamic Centre was well represented by Sr. Mahjabeen Fatima who spoke with clarity and conviction on the theme giving the Islamic perspective of Social Justice. She said that ‘the topic was relevant and timely in wake of Occupy Wall Street Movement which gripped North America, Europe and other parts of the world as a result of the Arab Spring which became the catalyst of this entire revolutionary uproar.’ She added; ‘they all point to the social and economic inequities in our societies despite the phenomenal progress in science and technology.’

‘In Islam’ she stated, ‘social justice is one of the pillars of a civilized society where the weak are protected, the poor are provided with a level playing field and every individual is treated with dignity and compassion to promote and maintain social order and harmony.’

‘This Qur’anic concept was introduced by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and was in full force till the end of thirteenth century, a period covering almost five centuries before the onslaught of Mongol hordes.’

Fatima drew rapt attention from the audience who showed interest in her speech which was evident from the questions she received from the audience. One listener
asked, if this is truly the Islamic understanding of social justice, then why the Muslim countries are in the present state of disorder?
She accepted that there is a deficit in practice when it comes to the application of the Islamic teachings and the Arab Spring is a hopeful sign for improvement. But she added that such deficiency is not restricted to Muslims alone as it cuts right across all faith groups and cultures. She smiled back when the audience nodded in agreement. Noticing her hijab, one young lady asked about her take on it. Fatima’s response was from her heart as it reflected her passion towards her belief.