Ottawa –
Canada’s new special representative on the fight against Islamophobia regrets that her words have hurt Quebecers.
Amira Elgawaby apologized in English before a meeting with Bloc Quebec leader Yves-François Blanchet today.
She said she was “extremely sorry” for how her words hurt the people of Quebec, and listened carefully, and that’s what dialogue is all about.
Several Quebec politicians have called for Elgawaby’s appointment to be revoked because of comments he made in a 2019 opinion piece he co-wrote.
Citing poll data, the column said that the “majority of Quebec citizens” who supported Bill 21 also held anti-Muslim views.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau backed the decision to nominate Elgwaby to the post, saying she was the right person to help Canadians tackle difficult issues related to religion.
This report by the Canadian Press was first published on February 1, 2023.
