What can we do to stop Sharia court in Canada

Send us an email  share your ideas or anything else for the Campaign, We'll post your e-mail on this page

Hi Homa,
I work for the Rutherford Show in Alberta. We are a live radio news talk show in Alberta. You were on our program in September and it was a great interview. We are hoping to interview you today (Monday, Dec 20) at 1:30 pm Eastern time and of course it's in regards to Marion Boyd's report which is being released today. Please let me know asap if you can do the interview and what phone number we can reach you at.

Cheers,
Jennifer Earl-King
Producer
The Rutherford Show
 

Hi Mrs Arjomand,

I am writing to you to know if you would be available for an interview
to react to the report of Marion Boyd about islamic tribunals.

The report is supposed to be made public today.

I am working for a provincial show at CBC FRENCH in Toronto.

The interview would be in french, if you can speak this language.

Thank you.

Ysabelle Bourassa
associate-producer
Radio-Canada

Sent: Monday, December 20, 2004 2:12 AM
Subject: For the attention of the Office of His Excellency, Ayatollah al Udhma Khamenei, Qom) 

Your Excellency Ayatollah al Udhma Khamenei,

I am writing to voice my outrage regarding Hajiyeh Esmaelvand, a woman who lives in the city of Jelfa in Iran. She has been condemned to death by stoning. I urge you to commute her inhuman and degrading punishment. Any form of death penalty violates the right to life, especially death by casting stones which is a brutal method specifically designed to increase the victim's suffering.
I also exhort you to ban all other killings by stoning.

Sincerely,
Simin Hariri
USA

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, December 20, 2004 5:59 AM
Subject: islamic tribunals-interview request

Hi Mrs Arjomand,

I am writing to you to know if you would be available for an interview to react to the report of Marion Boyd about islamic tribunals.
The report is supposed to be made public today. I am working for a provincial show at CBC FRENCH in Toronto. The interview would be in french, if you can speak this language.

Thank you.
Ysabelle Bourassa
associate-producer 
Radio-Canada

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Monday, December 20, 2004 7:26 AM
Subject: [Bulk] Urgent!!!Media interview

Hi Homa, 

I work for the Rutherford Show in Alberta. We are a live radio news talk show in Alberta. You were on our program in September and it was a great interview. We are hoping to interview you today (Monday, Dec 20) at 1:30 pm Eastern time and of course it's in regards to Marion Boyd's report which is being released today. Please let me know asap if you can do the interview and what phone number we can reach you at.

Cheers, 
Jennifer Earl-King 
Producer 
The Rutherford Show 

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, December 20, 2004 9:41 AM
Subject: Speaker Invitation to the Canadian International Law Students'
Conference
December 20, 2004

Homa Arjomand
Coordinator, International Campaign Against Sharia Courts
P.O Box 45546
747 Don Mills Road
Toronto, Ontario M3C 3S4
416-737-9500

Dear Ms. Arjomand:

The international law societies of Osgoode Hall Law School and the University of Toronto, Faculty of Law, together with the Journal of International Law and International Relations (JILIR) invite you to speak at the 12th annual Canadian International Law Students' Conference (CILSC) on Saturday, February 26, 2005, to be held in Toronto, Canada.
The CILSC provides a forum for law students, academics, practitioners, and leaders in the field of international law to exchange ideas in a collegial atmosphere. The conference has grown to become a premiere event, and with the expansion of the conference this year, we anticipate an increased attendance, drawing participants from across Canada, the United States and abroad. The CILSC is a joint Osgoode Hall-University of Toronto initiative. The Osgoode and U of T international law societies
maintain two of the largest and most active student-run organizations in the Canadian legal community and they have been growing in relevance and importance over the years.
This year, the conference has evolved into a two-day event to be held on February 25-26, 2005. The conference expansion reflects the participation of its new partner, JILIR. On the first day of the conference, JILIR will present a symposium, titled, "Threats, Challenges and Change - the Future of the United Nations." JILIR has invited Mr.
Anand Panyarachun, the Chair of the U.N. High-Level Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change as the keynote speaker. JILIR has also already confirmed the participation of New York University Professor and leading international legal scholar, Thomas Franck, and the UN Assistant Secretary General, Ramesh Takhur.
On the second day of the conference, the international law societies will present panels for which we hope you will be a speaker. Last year, John Hancock, Senior Advisor to the Director-General, WTO, delivered the opening keynote address. This year, the Secretary-General of Amnesty International Canada, Alex Neve, and one of the leading trade lawyers in Canada, Lawrence Herman, have already confirmed their participation at the conference. In addition, invitations have been extended to Jim Peterson, Louise Arbour, Barry Appleton, Marlys Edwardh, Bill Graham, Judith Kumin, Frank McKenna, Wesley Wark and Stephen Lewis, as well as many other eminent international law scholars and practitioners. Among nine different panels, the speakers will address topics in private and public international law dealing with trade, human rights, security, the
environment, health law and intellectual property, international courts and tribunals, and the practice of international law. We would be honoured if you would speak at the Conference on Saturday, February 26, 2005 to share your expertise with respect to the use of Sharia law in Ontario in civil arbitrations. Your perspective as the
> coordinator of the International Campaign Against Sharia Courts would make a valued and timely contribution to the panel and the conference. Among the many timely and important issues in this subject area, we would welcome your insights on the relationship between Sharia law and the Canadian legal tradition and its underlying values. Other invited speakers on the panel include Marion Boyd, Pascale Fournier, Alia Hogben, amongst others. Since the conference is a student-run initiative, we hope
> that you would be able to finance your travel and accommodation. However, our Finance Committee will try to sponsor your participation if financial constraints would otherwise deter you from participating. You can find more information about the conference at ------- Please contact me, your designated Human Rights Panel Chair, at
< ---------------> or -----------------. Thank you for taking the time to consider our proposal. I very much look forward to our future communications.

Sincerely,
Paul Jonathan Saguil
Human Rights Panel Chair
Paul Jonathan Saguil, B.A. (Hons.)
LL.B. Candidate (2007)
Osgoode Hall Law School
York University

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, December 20, 2004 5:59 AM
Subject: islamic tribunals-interview request

Hi Mrs Arjomand,

I am writing to you to know if you would be available for an interview to react to the report of Marion Boyd about islamic tribunals. 
The report is supposed to be made public today.I am working for a provincial show at CBC FRENCH in Toronto. 
The interview would be in french, if you can speak this language. 

Thank you.
Ysabelle Bourassa
associate-producer 
Radio-Canada

To: 'homawpi@rogers.com' 
Sent: Monday, December 20, 2004 9:51 AM
Subject: newspaper story

Hello, 

Hoping to get some comments from you regarding Marion Boyd's report. Are you issuing some sort of press release? If so, could you send it to this address. Or better yet, could you call me at the number below so we could chat for a few minutes?

Regards, 

Meredith MacLeod 
Reporter 
The Hamilton Spectator 
Hamilton, ON 

To: Homa Arjmand 

Sent: Wednesday, December 15, 2004 8:06 AM

Dear Ms. Arjomand,

Thanks for copying me on the letter to M. Ouellette. Unfortunately, I no longer live in Montreal, but am rather in San Diego. Are you going to be in this area shortly? 
Like you, I am all against the Sharia law in Canada...and for many, this is somewhat strange, since I am trained in Shariah, from Saudi, Mauritania, Syria and at McGill. ANd FYI, most of the players in the dialogue in Canada, those who are pro-Shariah, are NOT trained in Shariah....and give the government the wrong impression that graduation from a Muslim country gives one that ability. The disciplines of Dawa, Hadith, Arabic, Ulum al Din, DO NOT allow one to be a jurist. For this, one has to go to Kulliyat al Sharia...and to the best of my knowledge, I think only one member in the Montreal Area has. For forced marriage, I can assist in the views and probably get some ethnographic surveys done. Media...I seem to be a black sheep there...
km

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Monday, December 13, 2004 10:37 AM
Subject: Charia in Quebec 

Hello Homa,

I see that you are very active for human rights and I am really happy when I notice that women from muslim world act for better world here in Canada and in our native contries. Homa,my article was published by the newspaper Le Devoir,last saturday.Your point of view about charia in Quebec is in it.
It was as well published in Syfia International .
You"ll find the article as published in Le Devoir in the bottom of this message.
Homa,I am a journalist but I am also working for women and generally human rights.Do you know any women from muslim countries who are here in Montreal and want to meet me to start organizing a reaction againt charia in Quebec? 
My new phone number: 

Thank you Homa,
This is my article(in french,in Le Devoir):

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Monday, December 13, 2004 3:57 PM
Subject: Re: Speech at McGill University Law School

Dear Homa Arjomand, 

Thank you for this invitation. I'm glad the subject gets lots of attention.

I just spoke with my editor and he wants sound with my report. The sound of women discussing sharia, the sound of a demonstration, the sounds of a women's shelter, with women who suffered under sharia, the sound of a meeting of the muslim court of arbitration (almost impossible, I would think), or a woman telling her story. Of what happened to her in connection to arbitration in Canada, or in her homeland, under sharia. Or the story of a woman who appealed with a Canadian judge (has there been such a case?)
I'm sorry to bother you by asking you to think about this, I know you are very busy. However, we want a powerful story. We are not sensationalists, I work for public radio. One of the questions I will ask Mumtaz Ali is whether muslims from Holland could go to Ontario for a binding ruling of the Muslim Court of Arbitration. Suppose he says they can. . . 
I will phone you tomorrow afternoon. Would after 4 be a good time?
I bought airline tickets to be in Toronto Wednesday all day. My editor told me I can stay another day, if that is necessary to get sound. 

Kind regards, 
margot grant

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Monday, December 13, 2004 4:19 PM
Subject: Follow up from meeting in Canada on the ferry from Victoria

Hi Homa

I've visited your site and am very impressed with the work you have achieved and have passed the information on to a number of friends who work in this field to link to you. Hopefully this will get some responses from the Australian side of the border for you.
If there is every anything specific you want support with in the Human rights area please let me know and I'll do whatever I can with the connections and people I know.
Wishing you an enjoyable holiday season and great year in 2005 

Regards
Pola 

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Monday, December 13, 2004 5:29 PM
Subject: Re: Speech at McGill University Law School

Hi Homa, 

You are working so hard and I am following your work and cheering. What do you think of Marion Boyd or the gov't postponing their report. 

They must be uneasy. 
Bev

Dear Homa Arjomand, 

Thank you for sending me this.
I agree wholeheartedly with you that this practice must end. The Dutch governement is raising the age for brides from other countries to 21. In Denmark, it's 24 now. 
We're meeting Wednesday, after 4. I'll be in Mississauga from 2 pm - 3 pm, with Mumtaz Ali. Would you let me know where we could meet? Preferably in a quiet place, because random sound in the background is not nice on radio. 
Or perhaps there is a location where I could also record sounds of women who discuss this issue, or are victims of it. Or somebody who would want to tell her personal story - but the main story is yours. I realise I ask a lot here but I'm just trying to do a story which is as powerful as possible. 
A written story about sharia court in Ontario (an adaptation for the radio documentary) will appear in the February issue of Opzij, a feminist magazine in the Netherlands. 
I'm looking forward to meeting you,

kind regards,
margot grant 

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Sunday, December 12, 2004 10:57 AM
Subject: Speaker Invitation Dalhousie Law School

Hi Ms. Arjmand,

I would like to invite you on behalf of the Dalhousie Law School. Association of Women and the Law along with Law Hour to come and speak on the problem of legal pluralism and cultural relativism as it affects women.
A wide variety of speakers, including supreme court justices regularly participate in student organized speaker series at Dalhousie Law School and the events always draw a large and interested crowd. We would be very excited to have this topic addressed. Halifax has a large Muslim/ Middle Eastern community as well as a very interested legal
community (a lot of law student body is from Ontario as well). CBC's the "Docket" is also filnmed here.
I am currently writing a paper on this topic and have been following your emails and speeches carefully. Please let me know if you are interested and if so, a possible date, which would be convenient for you. (Generally January until late March draw the best crowds, since exams begin in April). You may email me or if you prefer,
call at ----->
I look forward to hearing from you.

Polina Hristov.
On behlaf of DAWL and Law Hour.

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Saturday, December 11, 2004 12:52 AM


I wish there was something I could do to help stop this madness. I suppose as long as there are no laws in the middle east to protect women and children it will continue. Just about 1 year ago, I decided to see what Islam was all about. I found myself in shock. I consider myself lucky but I also wonder where was I for so long not knowing what many people are going through. 

I wish you success in all your doing and if I could help, I would. 

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Saturday, December 11, 2004 7:24 PM

Hi Homa,

Do you think this would be another marriage made in hell thanks to the misogyny inherent in islam? I also find it interesting that the slaughter of young women at the Ecole Polytechnique in Montreal back in '89 was not seen as the work of a man brought up in a muslim household. Too bad our media won't face the facts, but instead must see everything through politically correct rose coloured glasses.

Just thinking out loud,
Hope all is well, saw your interview with Paula Todd on TVO, you presented a great argument!
Richard


CTV.ca News Staff 

Updated: Sat. Dec. 11 2004 7:41 PM ET 
The teacher who was shot dead in the parking lot of her Toronto-area high school had reportedly been trying to end her marriage.
According to the Toronto Sun, Aysegul Candir, 47, decided to end her 18-year marriage to Erhun Candir, 62, just over a week ago. She had moved out while he was on vacation in their native Turkey.
However, CFTO News's Janice Golding said police wouldn't confirm that information.
Aysegul spent most of Friday on life support after succumbing to her injuries at around 9:30 p.m. Friday night. She had been shot several times that morning
Her husband has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with her death.
He was arrested at his home Friday afternoon, and made a brief court appearance Saturday. He covered his head on the way into court and once there, asked for time to find a lawyer, Golding said. Candir is next scheduled to appear in a Brampton court on Monday. 
Police are still standing guard outside the Candir's Bolton, Ont. home. Neighbors said the Candirs were the home's original neighbors, but were very quiet people who kept to themselves. Erhun reportedly worked as a flight simulator instructor at Air Canada.
Friday's shooting sent all 1,700 of Bramalea Secondary School's students diving under their desks for cover. The students had practiced the emergency procedure in the past. They stayed under their desks, lying in the darkness for about two hours until police gave the all-clear.
Jim Grieve, director of education for the Peel School Board, described the shooting as "unprecedented.
"It's especially traumatic that such a disturbing incident of what seems to have been domestic violence should spill over into the lives of the students Mrs. Candir was so devoted to," he said. At the school, people were arriving with flowers and cards to Aysegul.
"I feel sorry for the lady who was killed here and I think she's a very, very special person who deserves to become an angel," said Brandon Atchison, a youngster whose brother attends the school.
His mother Janet said: "I think that her family would really like that, to know we're thinking of her today." 

Several students described Aysegul -- a recent teacher's college graduate who had started working at the school last year, teaching English as a second language -- as a "wonderful" person.

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Thursday, December 09, 2004 8:31 AM
Subject: petition

Dear Mrs. Arjomand,

after reading an article in the French Actualité magazine <Canada, terre de charia?>, (15 décembre 2004), I was interested in visitin your website and signing your petition against Sharia law in Canada. I do believe that, for the sake of women and children, we do need, regardless of religious affiliation, to have a common law and practice for all Canadians. To open the door for Sharia law in Canada would establish a precedent for any faith or ideological group to demand their that their own particular laws be applied bor their members. There would be no end. I also believe that, regardless of personal beliefs, we need to live our faith in the midst of a larger world and therefore need
to be involved in public debate and decision making within the Canadian political and legal framework.

Though my intent was to sign such a petition, I found that your petition was totally different than what I had expected. I do believe there needs to be a certain seperation between religion and state but your petition is more one in favour of <secularism> which in itself is an ideology that on its own cannot protect the individual and collective rights of believers. The ultimate goal of secularism is to relegate faith to a private matter. But faith, if properly considered, will influence our understanding and respect of persons and is a foundation that will inform a person^s ethical positions. Faith can never be just a private affair.

As for excluding religion from education, I think we make a grave error by exluding religious education in schools. It is possible to teach about religion in schools in broader cultural ways that will help students to respect the differences between people. To exclude any approach to religion in schools prior to the age of 16 is to demean
religious belief. Instead of helping the situation, I believe it can have the adverse effect of encouraging a greater fundamentalism. Let me be clear here, I don't believe that we are to teach 'faith' in public schools but that does not mean we can't respectfully teach about religion in broader cultural terms.

For these reasons, although I would support you in opposing Sharia law in Canada, I am unable to sign your petition.

Pierre LeBel
plebel@ca.inter.net

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Thursday, December 09, 2004 6:57 AM
Subject: TVO Tuesday

Homa,

I watched your interview on TVO Tuesday night. I also taped it to show other members of our group. You are such a brave woman and I was very interested in your personal story. We at CSAW are proud to support your International Campaign against Sharia Court in Canada.
Most sincerely, Linda

Linda Middaugh
Canadians in Support of Afghan Women

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Wednesday, December 08, 2004 7:55 AM
Subject: Re: Fw: TV debate on Sharia Courts in Canada

thank you for letting me know about the broadcast. I watched last night and felt you did a good job of presenting your case. I have sent an email to Paula Todd thanking her for having the courage to have you on her program. I have been sending our emails and passing our flyers and copies of your petition to my friends and neighbours, and today at our Church we are having a speaker who has recently returned from Iran and will be giving us an overview of her experiences there;
Continue the ffight, Homa. Thanks you for your courage. 

E. Lydia Macdonald,

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Wednesday, December 08, 2004 7:58 AM
Subject: volunteering

Dear Homa,

I watched your interview on Studio Two last night and was very moved by your comments. I am a retired teacher. I taught English and ESL and Library in the public system for thirty years. I am now working part time as a tutor for Bishop Strachan School. I have a friend from Iran I befriended through CCVT who is quite active in social justice and human rights. I also have a son who is gay. I would like very much to volunteer my services to you. It wouldn't really matter what the nature of the work would be. I have lived a very safe and fortunate life and would like to give back to our society and help out in important issues any way I can.

Thank You,
Laryssa Carter

From: "Sissy Sissy"
To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, December 08, 2004 10:55 AM
Subject: RE: Fw: Holland

I don't know why you call it political Islam. From what the qur'an says, it is Islam that has the problem. I have read some of it, and of course now most westerners have, and it is not a nice thing for us to read. The main message in the Qu'ran is that all non-muslims are inferior to muslims. Then there are the parts of hate and death to non-muslims. I am thankful not to have been raised a muslim. I have visited many muslim websites and I see loads of hate for westeners and even Hindus in the subjects. I know there are some nice things in the Qu'ran but that does not make for the bad. Certainly it does not make me feel any better. I still can't trust muslims because of the Qur'an. It has nothing to do with a phobia. It has to do with what the words in the Qur'an. Phobia is a fear that is not rational.
The Qur'an clearly states its message for non-muslims. I get a message from the Qur'an and I am acting rationally with my lack of trust. I don't see any other religion promoting hate. I know some think theres are the best but it is not they are not killing others over their faith. I know and I haver heard this all the time. Islam means peace and those are not real muslims. In Islams history there has never been peace. Islam has had more wars than any country or religion in the world. Look at recent history in
Africa. It is not a phobia we have. We don't like what we see and everyone has a right to believe what they want. I would say Islam is the one with the phobia. It is called Jewphobia, Christianphobia and Hinduphobia. 
Non-muslimphobia to be more precise.

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, December 08, 2004 8:25 PM
Subject: Your TVO Interview 

Hello Homa,

I just got an internet connection from my home 2 days ago. No more library computers! Hurrraaaahhhhh!!!!! 
I saw your interview with Paula Todd on Person to Person on TVO yesterday. You are a wonderful person, Homa. You are so dedicated and courageous in spite of the hardships your activities bring to you! I really admire you very much. It is because of people like you that I see a glimmer of hope for the world. Where would this world be if people like you did not exist?
I just don't know.
As well, my heart goes out to you for the atrocities you have witnessed. Those were extremely terrible experiences. As I watched the interview I wanted to reach out and give you many hugs. I don't know if they would have done anything for you but I just wanted to comfort you. I wanted to alleviate even a little of the pain you feel. 
Homa you are not only the best representative of womankind; you are the best representative of humans in general.

I send you friendship and love, Homa,
Maria

Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 1:03 PM
Subject: YOU are invited Thu Dec-09 / 5:30 p.m. Mayor Miller &Council's
Award Reception

Mayor David Miller and Toronto City Council invite you to attend a celebration in honour of Human Rights Day and the presentation of the 2004 Access, Equity and Human Rights Awards on Thursday, December 9, 2004, 5:30 p.m. to 8 :00 p.m. 
Council Chamber Toronto City Hall
100 Queen Street West
Host: Andy Barrie
Awards Presentation: 5:30 p.m. Council Chamber
Reception 7:00 p.m. City Hall Rotunda

Please respond to
TTY
Attendant care provided
Cassandra Fernandes
Diversity Management and Community Engagement Consultant
CITY OF TORONTO
Chief Administrator's Office
Strategic and Corporate Policy Division
100 Queen Street (W), 10E
Toronto, ON, M5H 2N2

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 11:24 AM
Subject: Re: Fw: Holland
--- Homa Arjmand <homawpi@rogers.com> wrote: 

If the activists against political Islam left with no support from, groups and individuals who defend human rights and women's equality then there should be no surprise to see the lives of activists such as Yasmine Allas, Ayaan Hirsi Ali, Mimount Bousakla and many more be in danger. As you know by now, Political Islam is against secular and progressive movement for liberation, and it is against cultural and intellectual advances. We should, we must recognize this move, it has link in Iran,Algeria, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.In Canada we can have road to success by having one set of progressive laws and regulations for all, irrespective of sex, race,ethnicity. . by removing family law from the Ontario Arbitration act 1991. Religion should become a private matter and does not have a place in justice system. please sign the petition and Resolution on www.nosharia.com and send it to all your e-mail lists. please make sure your organization, your place of work and schools near you are endorsing the resolution. Only a secular state and a secular society that respects human rights can ensure women's liberation. 

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Sunday, December 05, 2004 4:04 PM
Subject: Holland

december the 7th I am writing from Canada , my answer to this young muslim women and any other muslims who voted with their feet is denounce the barbaric laws of the sharia we are fighting against it with our hearts and souls it it not a battle of relgions it is a batttle for hard earned freedoms that women in Canada have fought for and we are not ready to relinquish any part of our freedoms for some relgious dogma that it may be politically in vncorect what I am going to say , this dogma is imported , people in funfemental islamic countried wholobby for their relgious freedoms are stoned two wrongs do not make it right Joanne > 

December 01, 2004
In Europe, Muslim women speaking out against extremism risk backlash And what are the dhimmi European authorities doing about it? From AP, with thanks to Kemaste:
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands (AP) Novelist Yasmine Allas doesn't believe in happy endings.
That's strange, considering her own unlikely road to success. The daughter of a wealthy army officer, she fled as a teenager from her repressive childhood in Somalia, where she had dreamed of becoming an actress, dating men, drinking wine and living the life she saw in movies.
Now in the Netherlands, having gained an audience for her bleak stories of oppressed women and failed immigrants, she finds she still can't escape fear. 
Since the slaying of filmmaker Theo van Gogh last month in Amsterdam, there have been death threats against two prominent Muslim women politicians Ayaan Hirsi Ali in Holland and Mimount Bousakla in Belgium who have spoken out against repression in Islam. 
Allas, 35, is among a growing group of young women from Muslim backgrounds who are making it in politics, the arts, media or the law in Europe, and in some cases are putting themselves at the forefront of the fight against extremism from two directions Islamic fundamentalists and Europe's far-right fringe.
From a television journalist in Italy to a standup comic in Norway, these women are speaking up in voices that may never have been heard had they remained in their native lands. In Somalia, says Allas, ``If you are a girl, you always are in fear of your parents, your older brothers, your male neighbors. It is always the man ... It is always fear and fear and fear.''... 
``When I came to Holland, for me it was, Whew! What freedom! What a country! It was love, immediately,'' she recalls. ``But Holland is not the same.''
AP then plays the moral equivalence angle: Fatima Elatik, deputy mayor of Amsterdam's heavily immigrant Zeeburg borough, was assigned bodyguards after receiving threats from a right-wing Dutch extremist after the Van Gogh killing. 
Since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks ``there's been a lot of Muslim- and Islam-bashing in our society that really was very frightening,'' said Elatik, 31. 
She deals often with young immigrant men and women who want to be Dutch yet feel alien. Even though she wears a head scarf, she considers herself a modern,
liberal Dutch woman.
``What is typically Dutch? I don't look Dutch, I don't have a Dutch name. But I wear Dutch clothes. Even my scarf, my hijab, I buy in Dutch stores. What more do you want from me?''

Umm, how about a definitive and trustworthy community-wide renunciation of any intention to impose Sharia now or in the future?
Posted at December 1, 2004 

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 2:26 PM
Subject: CBC interivew request

Homa,

I hate to hound you like this but as you know I have been trying for two days to nail down a firm time as to when we can interview you and I really really need an answer from you on this. 

*** CBC will in no way film women at your offices who are seeking counselling, nor will we identify in ANY way your building. We simply need to interview you at your desk, in your office. 
I have to have this interview completed by Thursday of this week, so please understand my urgency in terms of a commitment from you. I am getting a LOT of pressure from the reporter I am working with to get a commitment, so please either leave a voicemail at ------by end of day today (Tuesday) or email me your reply. I want your concerns
included in this piece, but I need some movement on this from your end.

many thanks

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 6:12 PM
Subject: When will Homa Arjomand speak in Ottawa?

Good Evening,

I watched TVO Studio 2 with Homa Arjomand on Tuesday Dec 7th.
While the interviewer was less than great (she barely got around to asking about Sharia Law), I really enjoyed listening to Ms. Arjomand.

I would be interested in learning more about Sharia Law, and in particular, how it affects women. I have read a few books on Pakistan, Afganistan, and Saudi Arabia, but I am still very ignorant and lacking in understanding and knowledge. 
If the Campaign is going to hold a public seminar in Ottawa I would be keen to go and learn more. 

Ken Smith

To: homawpi@rogers.com 

Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 6:36 PM
Subject: Re TVO Interview

Hello Homa,

Just watched the interview it was great, I am sure you have convinced thousands of people to oppose the 'Sharia law'
Thanks for all your work. 
Tessa House
WHAM

From: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 8:45 AM
Subject: Fw: TV debate on Sharia Courts in Canada

Hi David:

It is a sad and painful. It is very fearful to see at the beging of the 21st century we women in CANADA, living in the heart of civilization can not talk about the effect of the Ontario Arbitration Act 1991 which allowed family disputes be resolved according to Sharia or any faith base law and regulations. We women have fear of political Islam and its move globally that subjected us and our children to various forms of abuse and daily degradation and have every right to do so. 

It is not Islamophobia for us women who have fled from countries where Sharia has power and sought refugee in Canada as we have seen and expereinced the real face of political Islam and we can recognize its move. Under the infulence of political Islam we have seen an increase intimidation and threats against innumerable women golobally. Historically, political Islam has proven to be a major force that impose serious setbacks on women's lives. Political Islam is a political movement that came into force against secular and progressive movements for liberation, and against cultural and intellectual advances therefore it is surprizing to see women have fear to speak up. their fear is real, it is not phobia. But we can make a huge change. We can all be treated equally, if we put pressure on the Ontario government to remove family law from the Ontario Arbitration Act 1991, for the protection of all its residents; untill then, believe me it would be fearful for these women to come out and speak about their loss as they have fear for their lives.

Best Wishes

Homa Arjomand

----- Original Message ----- 

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Sunday, December 05, 2004 7:57 PM
Subject: TV debate on Sharia Courts in Canada


Dear Homa,

A very popular public affairs tv show from Télé-Québec will be hosting a debate in early January on the introduction of Sharia courts in Ontario. They have been unable to find Muslims willing to appear on the show to contest the Sharia courts. The people they contacted cited fear. The show's animator turned to em for help. Would you know of anyone willing to participate in the show? The person would need to be fluent in French.

Best,
David Ouellette
Judeoscope

Sent: Monday, December 06, 2004 11:55 AM
To: Undisclosed-Recipient:;
Subject: Fw: sharia in sport

political Islam has spoken in Bangladesh please don't let it have its way in Canada too.. The Campaign against Sharia Court in Canada wants one law for all, wants family law be removed from the Ontario Arbitration Act 1991. for this reason its is everyone's duty to sign the resolution and petition please check these two www.nosharia.com.
thanks
Homa Arjomand 

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Sunday, December 05, 2004 4:17 PM
Subject: sharia in sport

Bangladesh stops women swimmers

By Roland Buerk 
BBC Bangladesh correspondent 

Bangladesh's government has stopped women taking part in a swimming competition after pressure from an Islamic group. 
Radical Muslims threatened large demonstrations if the competition was allowed to go ahead.
Last year the competition was held without incident.
In July, a women's wrestling tournament was cancelled after threats to disrupt it, and a women's football competition was called off after protests.
It was later held peacefully.

'Offensive' 
The long-distance swimming competition had been due to take place in a river in Chandpur, south of the capital.
Male swimmers set off as planned, but the women's event was cancelled.
Four female swimmers had been expected to take part.
The decision was made by Bangladesh's Sports Minister, Fazlur Rahman.
He said he had no choice after a radical Islamic group threatened to bring the entire district around Chandpur to a halt with protests.
The Committee for Resistance to Un-Islamic Activities said women taking part in the sport would offend Bangladesh's more than 100 million Muslims.
On Monday, they organised a rally in the town that was attended by more than 1,000 people.

Bangladesh is a largely moderate country, but Islamic groups have been campaigning against women

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Monday, December 06, 2004 7:55 AM
Subject: petition

Bonjour,

Il est impossible d'ouvrir la page pour signer la pétition. J'ai beau cliquer...rien à faire.
Que se passe-t-il?

Mariette M. Plante

To: 'Homa' 
Sent: Monday, December 06, 2004 12:06 PM
Subject: Hoping to film traditional Muslim women....

Hi Homa, 

It was lovely to chat with you just now. Here's a summary of what I'm doing and what I'm looking for:
I'm filming a series called "Mother Tongue" which explores Canada's multicultural history from a female perspective. Each show focuses on one community and tells the story of a remarkable woman in that community. Our Muslim show explores the story of Roshan Jamal. 
As the head of the Noor Centre, Roshan organised a lecture on Sharia law, exploring what it is. One of the speakers suggested that Sharia would make some Muslim women vulnerable: especially those who are newcomers to the country and who don't speak English. 
I'm hoping to film a number of the "vulnerable" women (newcomers, can't speak English, wearing a veil). I was wondering where I could do that...perhaps in a shelter, or at a mother's group. Do you or your colleagues have any idea where I could film this? I'm hoping to film this coming Friday.
I look forward to hearing from you,

Best wishes,
Susan Poizner
ThinkStock Inc.
www.mothertongue.ca (temporary website...currently being redesigned...)

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, December 06, 2004 7:02 AM
Subject: CBC interview request

Homa,

As discussed Friday, CBC News: Morning would like to record an on-camera interview with you Tuesday or beyond of this week. We prefer to shoot you in an office environment, and can guarantee that we will not shoot the exterior of the office or represent it in any form that would make its location identifiable. We absolutely respect the
needs of your group to keep the location private due to the nature of the work you do.

*** Also, if it is at all possible, the piece we are producing re:
sharia law would benefit tremendously from being able to tell the story of one individual woman whose life has been detrimentally impacted due to rulings, or the threat of rulings, under sharia law. We could disguise the woman's identity if needed so as to guarantee anonymity. I would really appreciate any movement you could
make on this this week, as the report's release could come at any time. 
I will call you later today to schedule the interview with you.

many thanks in advance,
Tina Pittaway
Producer
CBC News 

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Sunday, December 05, 2004 7:57 PM
Subject: TV debate on Sharia Courts in Canada

Dear Homa,

A very popular public affairs tv show from Télé-Québec will be hosting a debate in early January on the introduction of Sharia courts in Ontario. They have been unable to find Muslims willing to appear on the show to contest the Sharia courts. The people they contacted cited fear. The show's animator turned to em for help. Would you know of anyone willing to participate in the show? The person would need to be fluent in French.

Best,
David Ouellette
Judeoscope

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Sunday, December 05, 2004 6:46 AM
Subject: Homa on Person 2 Person

Good morning Homa,

Just wanted to let you know that your Person 2 Person interview with Paula Todd will be on the air on Tuesday, December 7 at 8:30 p.m. The show repeats again at midnight, then again at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday afternoon
(Dec. 8).

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Sunday, December 05, 2004 4:04 PM
Subject: Holland

December 01, 2004

In Europe, Muslim women speaking out against extremism risk backlash
And what are the dhimmi European authorities doing about it? From AP, with thanks to Kemaste:
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands (AP) Novelist Yasmine Allas doesn't believe in happy endings.

That's strange, considering her own unlikely road to success. The daughter of a wealthy army officer, she fled as a teenager from her repressive childhood in Somalia, where she had dreamed of becoming an actress, dating men, drinking wine and living the life she saw in movies.
Now in the Netherlands, having gained an audience for her bleak stories of oppressed women and failed immigrants, she finds she still can't escape fear.
Since the slaying of filmmaker Theo van Gogh last month in Amsterdam, there have been death threats against two prominent Muslim women politicians Ayaan Hirsi Ali in Holland and Mimount Bousakla in Belgium who have spoken out against repression in Islam.
Allas, 35, is among a growing group of young women from Muslim backgrounds who are making it in politics, the arts, media or the law in Europe, and in some cases are putting themselves at the forefront of the fight against extremism from two directions Islamic fundamentalists and Europe's far-right fringe.
From a television journalist in Italy to a standup comic in Norway, these women are speaking up in voices that may never have been heard had they remained in their native lands.
In Somalia, says Allas, ``If you are a girl, you always are in fear of your parents, your older brothers, your male neighbors. It is always the man ... It is always fear and fear and fear.''...

``When I came to Holland, for me it was, Whew! What freedom! What a country! It was love, immediately,'' she recalls.

``But Holland is not the same.''

AP then plays the moral equivalence angle:
Fatima Elatik, deputy mayor of Amsterdam's heavily immigrant Zeeburg borough, was assigned bodyguards after receiving threats from a right-wing Dutch extremist after the Van Gogh killing.
Since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks ``there's been a lot of Muslim- and Islam-bashing in our society that really was very frightening,'' said Elatik, 31.
She deals often with young immigrant men and women who want to be Dutch yet feel alien. Even though she wears a head scarf, she considers herself a modern, liberal Dutch woman.

``What is typically Dutch? I don't look Dutch, I don't have a Dutch name. But I wear Dutch clothes. Even my scarf, my hijab, I buy in Dutch stores. What more do you want from me?''

Umm, how about a definitive and trustworthy community-wide renunciation of any intention to impose Sharia now or in the future?
Posted at December 1, 2004

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>; <Undisclosed-Recipient:>
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2004 9:50 AM

Hi Homa:

Thank you for keeping us uptodate with your activities. January 22nd will be in Edmonton only. More details about the event will be e-mailed to
you.

Keep up the good work.

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2004 6:10 AM
Subject: Re: http://www.guardian.co.uk/islam/story/0,15568,1362591,00.html

Dear Homa,

Thank you for sending me updates. I find this a very prickly subject, criticism immediately smacks of racism. But I find myself wondering why Muslims who want to live with their sharias and "time off work to pray the required five times daily" move to countries where there is a totally different culture, and courts of law already exist and function
satisfactorily for the citizens of that country.
Being an immigrant is not easy. I know, because I am an immigrant myself, but I have always tried to adapt to Canadian customs, and restrict the practise of my personal faith, language, culture to the privacy of my home.

As a woman, I strongly oppose the introduction of any law or practice that diminshes women's rights and freedom and reduces her to mere chattel.
I wish you success in what must be a very lonely fight! 
Sincerely, Pomona
L. Pefanis

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2004 8:45 AM
Subject: Sharia Law


I read with deep concern the article in Chatelaine regarding the push by the Muslim community to establish Sharia Law as a binding legal system in Canada. This must not be allowed to happen in Canada. 

Our legal system confers dignity on both male and female as being persons. This step has taken many years. Women were considered non-persons and unprotected under the law in Canada for a long time. Sharia Law would be a removal of all that has been gained.

How many parents would want to stand by and see their daughters marry into a system that would remove all their protection under that law? They could be tried in mosque courts, sentenced and have no recourse to Canadian justice. We have read of Sharia court approved gang rapes, the consentual murder of sisters, public whippings and executions under Sharia Law.

Would our parliamentarians want to see their daughters or grand-daughters under a system like that? 

There's no point in saying it couldn't happen here. Many unspeakable things happen when no one objects to immoral or criminal changes in a country's laws. We only have to look at life in the Sudan today, Germany in World War 2, the USSR under Stalin, etc.

Yours truly, 

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2004 7:58 AM
Subject: [Bulk] RE: Re':leila04 (1).rtf

TO: Ms.Homa Arjomand
F/M: Kenichiro Takeda
RE: Re':leila04 (1).rtf

Dear Homa,

I have received your email and have found the community and the Organization for Women's Liberation in Canada. As for above-mentioned I would like to send a letter to the president of Iran within a couple of day.

I deeply appreciate what you have done for a human being on the earth.

I wish you a good health and happiness. 

Sincerely yours,
Kenichiro Takeda


-----Original Message-----
From: Homa Arjmand [mailto:homawpi@rogers.com] 
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2004 1:25 AM
To: Undisclosed-Recipient:;; undisclosed-recipients:
Subject: leila04 (1).rtf

14 year-old mother flogged 

and on death-row in Iran!

Leila was nine years old when she was forced to be a child prostitute. She was arrested by the Islamic Republic guards and flogged while she was pregnant. At the age of 14 she gave birth to twins. Last week she was arrested again and condemned to death by execution accused of "spreading corruption and being a prostitute". 

Leila has had a very hard life, being forced by her family to earn a living by prostitution. According to medical examination, this hard and cruel life has had severe effects on her health. She is still a child and behaves like an 8 year old. 

As though this harsh treatment has not been enough, now she is being punished and crushed even further by the Islamic Republic of Iran. 

Leila like many children and young people in Iran are being targeted by the Iranian government and their most basic rights violated. Not a day passes without the news of yet another execution order. During the past two weeks 4 young people have been condemned to execution in Tehran. 

You might ask when will such suppression and cruelty end? How will it end? If justice would prevail on its own accord, we would not have had such violent world. The only thing that can give a driving force to save the lives of the Leilas of Iran is our efforts and your efforts to put pressure on the Islamic Regime of Iran. We urge you to condemn the Iranian regime for violating human and children's rights in Iran in any way you think possible, and give your support to our efforts. 


We the undersigned:

* Condemn the Islamic Republic of Iran for violating human rights;

* Demand that Capital punishment must be banned;

* Demand the immediate release of Leila. She and her children must be given every possible health and social security provisions.


(Send your protest letters to the president of Iran khatami@president.ir Fax: 0098 21 649 5880.) 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Organisation for Women's Liberation

PO Box 42300, London N12 0WY, England

Tel: +44-7789801250 Fax: +44-8701358385

www.azadizan.com

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2004 8:57 AM
Subject: Re: sharia_resolution, please send the last page to Homa by fax 1-866-242-7710 thanks Homa


Dear Homa, 
Please send me if possible another last page of the sharia resolution, because Idon't know what's going on , every space to write on is black now !
I will sign the new one as soon as it arrives ..promise and send it by fax. 
Sorry for the delay , but the computer , is at my daughter 's and I don't have access to it all the time , beside I am super busy right now , because the Christmas period is part of my small business.
Louise

Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2004 7:34 PM
Subject: Re: Fw:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/islam/story/0,15568,1362591,00.html

Homa!

It looks as though Muslims "WANT TO RULE THE WORLD" They do not want to abide by any laws only their "OWN MAN MADE LAWS"!!

Thank you for sharing
Fran

I'm sure you'll have something to say about this.
Robin

http://www.guardian.co.uk/islam/story/0,15568,1362591,00.html

British Muslims want Islamic law and prayers at work Alan Travis and Madeleine Bunting Tuesday November 30, 2004 The Guardian Muslims in Britain want greater recognition of their faith with the introduction of Islamic law for civil cases and time off for prayers during the working day, but are equally committed to greater participation in
British life. A special Guardian/ICM poll based on a survey of 500 British Muslims found that a clear majority want Islamic law introduced into this country in civil cases relating to their own community. Some 61% wanted Islamic courts - operating on sharia principles - "so long as the penalties did not contravene British law".
Many civil cases in this country deal with family disputes such as divorce, custody and inheritance. The poll also found a high level of religious observance with just over
half saying they pray five times a day, every day - although women are shown to be more devout than men. The poll reveals that 88% want to see schools and workplaces in Britain.

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Friday, November 26, 2004 10:43 AM
Subject: Re: Fw: Gazette des femmes

I don't know any french, but I am proud of you and your passion for women's right Homa jaan. Feels nice to see you surrounded by reporters and cameramen...

Sahar

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Friday, November 26, 2004 11:00 AM
Subject: Your participation with your point of view in my article


Hello Madam Homa Arjoman,
I called you yesterday and today and I sent you an e-mail before.I'm still wating for your raction to the object of my e-mail.I'll call you at 3:00 and at 4:00 and at 5:00.
My article will be published by the and novembre.Could you please send me an e-mail answering to my questions today or tomorrow.I'd like also to talk to you by phone.
Thank you and good week end.
Mounia Chadi
Journaliste Radio CIBL et Syfia Press Agency

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Thursday, November 25, 2004 8:18 PM
Gerard and Lise Menard support your cause and thank you for working for us. Good luck.

Elka

From: gerald menard 

To: homawpi@rogers.com 

Sent: Thursday, November 25, 2004 12:58 PM

Subject: no sharia in canada

gerald et lise menard offrent leurs appuit a votre cause et nous en auront d autre merci de travailler pour nous bonne chance

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Monday, November 22, 2004 1:48 PM
Subject: RE: lapidation de Ghofrane Haddaoui, le 17 octobre 2004, près de Marseille

It's a call to a demonstration in France against violence against women specifically in support of a woman who was killed.

Elka

To: Ms. Boyd 
Cc: dalton.mcguinty@premier.gov.on.ca 
Sent: Thursday, November 25, 2004 6:00 PM
Subject: Sharia Law in Ontario


Dear Ms. Boyd,

I am writing to you to ask you to please consider the consequences of allowing sharia law in Ontario. 

Section 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms states:

"15. (1) Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability."

I ask you whether you truly believe that women will not be discriminated against under sharia law. I believe they will be discriminated against by sharia law which is a patriarchal set of rules, the enactment of which would blur the distinction between secular and religious law. 
Not only would the introduction of sharia law in Ontario be a big step in the destruction of a secular state in Canada, it's more immediate effect would be to deprive muslim women of the protection they currently enjoy under Canadian law. Many of these women have come to Canada precisely because of our fair and just laws...these same people would, under sharia, find themselves back under the thumb of an outdated set of laws which are misogynist in nature. 

The introduction of sharia law is not welcomed by most Canadian muslims and would be a giant step backwards for women's rights in this country.

Ms. Boyd, please do the right thing and protect women's rights by saying NO to sharia!

Sincerely yours,
Richard John Purvis
Toronto, Ont.

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Thursday, November 25, 2004 1:02 PM
Subject: FW: CTV NewsNet needs your support!!

Hello Homa .. thanks so much for calling.

I'm trying to drum up as much support as I can for CTV NewsNet. Would you you would be willing to send in a very brief letter of support for our all news channel. please see details below.. and call me if you have any questions.. Also could you pass this on to others who would be willing to write a letter of support for NewsNet.. Thank you so much. I really appreciate your efforts. Take Care!!

Karlene Nation

CTV NewsNet is seeking your support as it lobbies the CRTC to change the stations' news format. As it stands right now.. NewsNet has to interrupt breaking news stories
.. to go to a 15 minute news update. This is very annoying to our viewers who want to watch breaking stories on NewsNet un-interrupted. No other news channel has to deal with this kind of onerous restrictions -- only NewsNet.
Please take a look at the attached letter from CTV President of news.. and a sample letter to the CRTC. Please delete the information in this sample letter and write a very
brief note explaining why you support newsNet's attempts to get the CRTC to loosen restrictions on NewsNet's format.
Please email your letter of support directly to the CRTC at procedure@crtc.gc.ca and please send me a copy as well knation@ctv.ca.
Thanks so much and please call me if you have any questions.

Karlene Nation
Diversity Producer
CFTO/CTV

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Wednesday, November 24, 2004 11:04 AM
Subject: funding


I notice on the sharia people's website that they solicit funds upfront, and also ask for support for government funding of their "project". I think nosharia should be more aggressive re obtaining donations from the public and government funding.

thanks for your good work
a. lee

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Wednesday, November 24, 2004 10:28 AM
Subject: To Madam Homa Arjomand:Questions for an article


Hello Madam Homa Arjomand,
My name is Mounia Chadi.I'm journalist at Montreal CIBL radio and Press Agency Syfia.
We have talked by phone when I was preparing my radio program about Islamic court in Toronto.
I'm now preparing an article for Syfia agency about muslims in Quebec.And I have two questions for you:
-Is the islamic court in Toronto working now or is it sill a poject.What are the latest news about it.Have you had any reactions from muslims womens about the impact of this court?
-My second question contains an information and this will be the main aspect of my article:
Some leaders of muslims in Montreal are preparing a project about muslim committee,kind of consultatif court wich will advice muslims famillies about how to solve their family and commercial conflicts(divorce,heritage,etc).A normal court in Quebec will have to accept or refuse the decisions or advices of this muslim Committee (in Arabic it is called Hayahe Charhiya and it will give "Choura" basing on "charia").
They can't arbitrate because the Quebec provincial law don't allow them to do arbitration.
This is why the leaders of islamists are talking here in Montreal, about mediation instead of arbitration.But they say that the law in Quebec permit them to make arbitrations about commercial matters.
But in family matters the muslim committee which will regroup Imams from many cultures and many islam schools,will try to solve family conflits and it will communicate it's advices,and mediations to the normal court .The normal court in Quebec will accept or refuse these kind of recomandations(Choura).
They are around 40 organizations who are going to present this project.(This is not official yet but I have the declaration of the leaders and that will be in my article).It seems that what happened in Toronto was an encouragement of islamists here , in Quebec.
What do you think about it.Is there a danger for women rights in Quebec in the action of this Kind of supreme committee of imams that will be the reference where muslims in Quebec will be invited to present their family and commercial problems?
My article will contain concrete examples of womens in Canada who suffered from Charia.Could you please help me with two or more cases of women victims of Charia in Canada?
Mme Homa,
Could you please react to this questions as soon as you can? I have to publish my article by the end of november.I'll translate your declarations to French,because Syfia is French press agency.I'll call you tomorrow.
After publishing my article I'll send it to you for your information.
My phone number is:.......
Thank you and have a good day.
Mounia Chadi
Journalist CIBL radio,Syfia Agency

From: Homa Arjmand [mailto:homawpi@rogers.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, November 23, 2004 6:25 AM
Subject: Fw: lapidation de Ghofrane Haddaoui, le 17 octobre 2004, près de Marseille



from jalil, i don't understand this, do you know any body how can check this and translate little bit, thank you.

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Michèle Vianès 
To: Undisclosed-Recipient:; 
Sent: Monday, November 22, 2004 11:18 AM
Subject: lapidation de Ghofrane Haddaoui, le 17 octobre 2004, près de Marseille

Veuillez trouver ci-joint le communiqué de Ni Putes Ni Soumises Grand Lyon et Rhône appelant les citoyennes et citoyens attachés à l'émancipation des femmes et au combat contre les violences faites aux femmes, à manifester à Marseille le 27 novembre, derrière la famille de Ghofrane Haddaoui, tuée à coup de pierres, le 17 octobre dernier, dans un terrain vague près de Marseille, victime du machisme barbare. 

Ni putes ni soumises appelle, avec les autres associations de femmes du Grand Lyon au rassemblement jeudi 25 novembre 2004 Place Bellecour, Lyon à 18h30, lors de la Journée Internationale pour l'élimination de la violence à l'égard des femmes pour 

dénoncer ce nouvel acte de barbarie machiste et allumer symboliquement des bougies blanches en mémoire de Ghofrane et de toutes les autres femmes victimes. 

Ni putes ni soumises Grand Lyon

06 26 87 11 31

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Tuesday, November 23, 2004 8:08 AM
Subject: Petition

Mrs. Homa Arjomand,
Coordinator of the Petition against Shari'a court in Canada,

Madam :

I would be very happy to support your project, but all people I know don't speak English, and they wont understand what it is all about. So I cannot spread your request through all Québec !

My question is : would you have by any chance a French version of your petition. Otherwise I will have to do a free translation... before to send your petition and I would like to avoid error of translation !

Regards,

Yolande Vendette
Cap-Rouge (Québec)

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Tuesday, November 23, 2004 11:46 AM
Subject: Saudi Arabia bans camera phones


Saudi ministries picture the future
By Kim Ghattas 
Published: November 23 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 23 2004 02:00

GLOBAL VILLAGE


For those heading to Saudi Arabia, the restrictions on what items can be taken into the kingdom now include the latest in mobile technology: camera-equipped phones.

The government banned the import and sale of phones with cameras in March, after reports that people were being photographed surreptitiously, particularly women. But the injunction, which includes most new phones on the market, has sparked a battle between those who want it overturned, including the Saudi ministries of trade, finance, interior and technology, and Sheikh Saleh bin Abdulaziz al-Sheikh, the grand mufti of Saudi Arabia and the country's highest religious authority.

The difference of opinions on this issue reflects more generally tensions within the kingdom between reformers and modernisers and the more conservative, religious forces.

The use of camera phones and possible invasion of privacy has worried a number of countries. Several US states have forbidden their use in public places and in the UK there has been a call for such a ban in schools, while in Japan and the United Arab Emirates, men have been prosecuted for taking voyeuristic photos of women without their consent. Donald Rumsfeld, US defence secretary, even prohibited the use of phones in US military installations in Iraq after suspicion that the damming Abu Ghraib prison photos had been taken with camera-fitted phones.

But only in Saudi Arabia have camera phones been declared illegal everywhere. But they are still readily available, smuggled in from the UAE or Bahrain and sold on the black market. The Saudi paper Arab News even reported that they were still being advertised on billboards in Jeddah.

Over the summer reports of "misconduct" by owners of camera phones started to circulate, prompting the police to confiscate the mobiles when seen used in public.

One particular incident that caused an outcry involved a video clip of a woman being raped. The footage had been taken with a camera phone and passed around through phones. Newspaper reports say three men, two Saudis and a Nigerian, were arrested in connection with the rape.

The Al Arab Yawm daily also reported that a woman had been expelled from university for taking pictures of her female friends and distributing them over the internet. In another incident, high school students in Riyadh complained to their principal about a fellow student with a camera mobile phone. The local head of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice - the feared religious police - was called in to deal with the situation. He reportedly destroyed the phone with a mallet "as a disciplinary act and a lesson for others to learn from".

In July, a wedding turned violent after a female guest was caught taking pictures of other guests in the women-only section of the celebration. Scuffles erupted and several guests were taken to hospital, according to local newspaper reports.

It is unclear why the woman was taking the pictures. But in several Arab countries where men and women mix little, weddings are often an occasion for mothers to pick out possible brides for their sons. In Saudi Arabia, men and women who are unrelated do not mix at all. Women are sensitive about being photographed, especially when they are in private and unveiled.

The official ban did little to deter mobile camera users, however. So in October, the grand mufti issued a fatwa or religious edict banning phones with built-in cameras, blaming them for "spreading vice and obscenity". The International Islamic News Agency also quoted him saying that under sharia or Islamic law the exchange of text messages on mobile phones between boys and girls could lead to "forbidden things" and could pose a danger to the "modesty and chastity of the girls involved".

But now four Saudi ministries have appealed to King Fahd to reverse this ban. They say the phones have become a "fait accompli,like television and the internet" and rather than banning them, the kingdom should teach the public to use them responsibly and find ways to enforce the guidelines.

Saudi Arabia imports about 6m mobiles a year. The ministers argue that most mobile phones will be equipped with cameras. If these are banned in Saudi Arabia, companies will have to produce special phones destined for the kingdom, which will drive up the price.

But even if the ban is reversed, the mufti's fatwa may remain - unless Mr Sheikh can be convinced to let modernisation run its course and allow those calling for a pragmatic attitude towards the advances of technology to score a point in the greater battle for reform in the kingdom.

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Tuesday, November 23, 2004 12:11 PM
Subject: Gazette des femmes


hi daniell I received the magazine, and thank you for the effort you put in this matter, I asked people who work with us to translate the article in to English then we would translate it to Farsi . We will use it for our web site and Persian monthly paper. i just have another request, is it possible for you to send me just the article by itself in order to put it in our french website. 
Best wish, 
Homa arjomand

Hi,

I am sending you the article (pdf version and also just the article by itself). I hope that this is ok for you (excuse my english...).

Is it possible to receive the Persian monthly paper that will reproduce our article ? Where is produced this paper ? What's is name ? Please, could you mention our magazine (la Gazette des femmes, nov.-dec. 2004 issue) and the name of the journalist ? Could you send me the french website where the article will be published ?

Thank you,

Claire Gagnon
Chef editor
la Gazette des femmes
8, rue Cook
3e étage,
Québec (Qc)
G1R 5J7

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Monday, November 22, 2004 6:10 PM
Subject: Information request


Hello,

I would like to know when is the next even in Montréal.

Thank you
Nicole Lemelin

To: noshariacourt@yahoo.com 
Sent: Sunday, November 21, 2004 11:27 AM
Subject: Courage, to oppose evil


Homa Arjoman,

I commend you for your courage and hatred of evil as you oppose the Sharia courts in Canada. These MUST not be permitted. The evil that comes from "sharia law" is self evident throughout the world. 

I am a trial court judge in the State of Kansas in the United States. My observations have reinforced my persuasion that the best protection of our right to exercise faith in God comes from exalting the rule of law which recognizes ALL fundamental rights. May God bless you with success as you continue to speak against the evil of Sharia Courts.

Your friend,

Van Z. Hampton

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Sunday, November 21, 2004 11:20 AM
Subject: Re: Re:Trip to Vancouver.


Dear Homa,
I am very disappointed.
The weather calls for freezing rain and snow tonight, through Princeton and rain or snow for Penticton.
The roads are fine right now but having to be home for work and a cancer function (I committed to weeks ago) tomorrow, I have to remain here.
If you should come out West again and the roads are good, I shall be there.
I shall forward my form to you by mail.
Will you be in Alberta anytime soon?
I have family all over Alberta and I want them to hear you speak.
Thank you for coming to BC.
Jane Turnell
Penticton,BC

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Friday, November 19, 2004 8:07 AM
Subject: URGENT


Hi Homa, 

I am trying to reach you today regarding your efforts to fight sharia's introduction in Ontario. I am updating the story and really need to talk to you. Please call me at -----

Many thanks, 

Sharon Boase 
The Hamilton Spectator 

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Thursday, November 18, 2004 8:44 AM
Subject: FW: Presentation to Board Re Resolution

Hi Homa,

I've forwarded your request for ratification to the Board and there is one member who has questions, specifically about "Faith-Based Arbitrations should not be Permitted in Ontario". I suggested it may be helpful to have you along to explain the resolution further or to answer questions they may have that can be forwarded to me prior to the meeting. Would you be willing to answer some questions on this either to the board directly or in writing that I can take forward?

Please let me know. So far, it's only one board member with questions but there may be others.

Paulette Senior
Executive Director
Yellow Brick House

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Thursday, November 18, 2004 4:16 PM
Subject: RE: Sharia in Canada

Dear Ms. Arjomand,

I called the number on your website, 416-737-9500 as I realized that is the only number that I have. I hope that is the correct number to reach you. In either case, I left a voice message. I will be home all night and basically all day tomorrow. If you'd like, you may call me at ------ or you can email me and I can call you back. Thank you again for agreeing to an interview.

Regards,
Akash Khokhar

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Thursday, November 18, 2004 9:39 PM
Subject: Re: Sharia Resolution

Dear Homa,

Please do add the IHEU (International Humanist and Ethical Union www.iheu.org) to the list of Signatories of the Resolution To Remove Family Law from the Arbitration Act 1991.

I hope you are receiving good support and wishing you success in this important initiative,

regards,

Babu Gogineni
Executive Director
IHEU

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2004 2:19 AM
Subject: RE: 

Homa, 

You may remember we met in August when I came to make a film for the BBC Newsnight programme about Sharia Law in Canada, can you update me on the latest situation, whether the government has decided to accept the court? 

Jonathan 

Jonathan Paterson 
Newsnight
BBC News

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2004 2:40 PM
Subject: stoning in france.


Hi Homa: I don't know how you got my email addy but you are welcome to send me relevant info. on your struggles. In some forums, I have requested info from a self described Afghani-Iraqi male in his 70's regarding the inclusion of females in his enjoyment of western life. There was no response. I have lived all my life in the wilds of northern BC and I value my freedom very much. I also wish the same freedom and a prosperous life to all immigrants who come here. I don't know any Muslims personally and I don't know enough about how free the women are in Islamic society to comment but FREEDOM and all the benefits of our Canadian way of life cannot and will not be denied to anyone. Your assistance in learning to understand your struggles would be appreciated.
Regards. Peter

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2004 6:00 PM
Subject: Interview

Dear Ms. Homa Arjomand,
My name is Asiya Baksh. I am a 3rd year student at McMaster University.
I am currently researching the Sharia law and its implications on immigrant and minority women in Canada. I have come across your name several times during my research and am now wondering if I can interview you within the next three weeks. The interview would not be formal and, if your schedule is tight, can be conducted over the phone
or (as a last resort) through email! I would really appreciate any help you can offer. Thanks!

Asiya Baksh
Faculty of Arts & Science III
McMaster University

Sent: Thursday, November 18, 2004 12:32 PM

Hello Homa Arjmand,

I would be glad to voice my objection to this but I live in Quebec so I don;t think I have a voice in Ontario.
Is there a federal or Quebec office by which I can be heard?

Patricia Campbell

From: Babu Gogineni 
To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Thursday, November 18, 2004 9:39 PM
Subject: Re: Sharia Resolution

Dear Homa,

Please do add the IHEU (International Humanist and Ethical Union www.iheu.org) to the list of Signatories of the Resolution To Remove Family Law from the Arbitration Act 1991.
I hope you are receiving good support and wishing you success in this important initiative,

regards,
Babu Gogineni
Executive Director
IHEU

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2004 2:19 AM
Subject: RE: 

Homa, 

You may remember we met in August when I came to make a film for the BBC Newsnight programme about Sharia Law in Canada, can you update me on the latest situation, whether the government has decided to accept the court? 

Jonathan 

Jonathan Paterson 
Newsnight
BBC News

Please try to get any and every group with which you are associated to have someone sign the final page and fax it to Homa Arjomand who is the Coordinator of the International Campaign to End Sharia Courts in Canada.
Marion Boyd will be presenting her report to McGuinty shortly.
What Ontario does will have an effect on the whole country.
We have many letters of support from individuals and associations and many have signed the online petition.
But, we want McGuinty to realize that there are many diverse groups that not only oppose having Sharia supported by the government, but that these groups are organized and unified in that effort. 
So please, as soon as possible, sign the last sheet and fax it to Homa. 

Thanks 
Elka 

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2004 10:38 AM
Subject: TV panel?

Dear Ms. Arjomand,

I produce a show called I on Politics. Next week, on November 23 at 3:30 pm, we're taping a segment that will look at the issue of Shariah courts in Canada. Are you or someone from your organization available to be a panelist?
Please let me know soonest. Our studio is located in Toronto.

Muhammad Athar Lila
Producer, iChannel
i on Media / i on Politics
iChannel is Canada's only television channel devoted to intelligent public
affairs programming. It is available on digital cable and satellite.

To: 'B. A. LL. B Ruth Ross' 
Cc: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2004 11:40 AM
Subject: A Few Questions About Faith-Based Arbitration in Ontario

Dear Ms. Ross,

On November 4, I attended a panel discussion at University of Toronto, Mississauga campus entitled "Sharia Tribunals in Ontario?".
There were four women speaking and they presented their views about the use of faith-based arbitrations, where Sharia laws are used to settle family legal matters.
Ms. Marion Boyd, former Attorney General of Ontario said in her speech that the Christian community was using arbitration based on the legal codes of their community. This comment intrigued me as I wondered which Canon of Law was being used by the Roman Catholic, protestant and evangelical communities. I asked Ms. Boyd where she got this information and she referred me to your organization.
There are four questions I would like to ask:
Are you aware of how often faith-based arbitration (as opposed to mediation) is used in the various confessions and denominations of the Christian community? 
Could you tell me which ecclesiastical laws are being used by the Roman Catholic, Protestant and Evangelical communities, to settle family legal matters in Ontario? 
Does the Christian Legal Fellowship support faith-based arbitration to settle family legal matters, using religious laws? 
If you answered yes to the above question, does the Christian Legal Fellowship support the use of arbitration to settle family legal matters, based on Sharia law? 
I am the communications advisor for Ms. Homa Arjomand, Coordinator of the Campaign to End Sharia Courts in Canada. For further information on Ms. Arjomand's campaign please visit her website at www.nosharia.com
Your reply is appreciated as we would like to understand the views and practices of other faith communities on this issue.

Thank you.
Sincerely,
Robert Simpson
Communications

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2004 6:51 AM
Subject: Muslim Student Association -- Uninversity of Toronto - November 17th, Shari'a Law and the Status of Women in Islam

Shari'a Law and the Status of Women in Islam
Bahen Centre for Technology and Information
Room BA 2195
November 17, 6 to 8 pm
The Location is at U of T , corner of St; George St and Russell St. (west side of St; George St).
Sponsor Muslim Student Association, U of T.

Map of U of T
http://oracle.osm.utoronto.ca/map/index2.html

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2004 6:00 PM
Subject: Interview

Dear Ms. Homa Arjomand,

My name is Asiya Baksh. I am a 3rd year student at McMaster University.
I am currently researching the Sharia law and its implications on immigrant and minority women in Canada. I have come across your name several times during my research and am now wondering if I can interview you within the next three weeks. The interview would not be formal and, if your schedule is tight, can be conducted over the phone or (as a last resort) through email! I would really appreciate any help you can offer. 

Thanks!
Asiya Baksh
Faculty of Arts & Science III
McMaster University

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Monday, November 15, 2004 3:10 PM
Subject: Re: sharia


Dear Homa,

Thank you very much for letting me know. I continue to keep on top of things. Mike Leach wrote to me last week indicating that Ms. Boyd's report is due out "later this fall". I will continue to write letters to my MP. Again, thank you for your all your hard work. 

sincerely
Jane Moseley

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Sunday, November 14, 2004 6:18 PM
Subject: sharia

Stoning in France

This stoning, which seems to have taken place in or near Marseilles, could be an event comparable to the murder of Theo van Gogh: another herald of the willingness of Muslims in Europe to take it upon themselves to enforce Sharia provisions. A friend in Marseilles has sent in this article from a French-language journal, 20 Minutes. My rough translation:

The alleged murderer of a 23-year-old Tunisian woman, whose stoned body was discovered on October 20, has been placed in police custody. The suspect, 18, arrested Sunday at his home, is an old acquaintance of the victim. He will be presented before the examining magistrate today.

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Sunday, November 14, 2004 5:46 PM
Subject: Sharia Law

Dear Homa,


I haven't had the opportunity to research this subject to the extent I would like to. A constituent, living in my city, brought this subject to my attention. (I am currently campaigning for the Alberta Liberal Party.) I was blown away because I have read nothing about this issue. Admittedly, I don't read the newspaper cover to cover. What I did find on the net:
i.e, Orthodox Jews, Catholics, Ismali's, B'naith have adopted this form of arbitration in matters concerning issues arising from disputes involving people of the same religion who have consented to this quasi-judicial process. I couldn't find anything on the web to substantiate statements related thereto. I am Catholic -- news to me. I spoke with a judge of the court of appeal and raised this issue. News to him -- knows nothing about Catholics, Orthodox Jews, etc., seeking quasi judicial proceedings outside the court.
Perhaps you can enlighten me to the extent that would substantiate the equality issue this group has advanced to suggest that they have equal rights (constitutionally speaking). If such an argument has merit could it well be said it is also an apple & orange situation? I would say so. Canada respects women and therefore respects their rights. I view this issue as a underhanded means of gaining control over women of the Muslim faith. You have made tremendous inroads and I for one want to make sure
that you retain every inch of that road that you have worked so hard to build - there is no going back. 

Best wishes & onward!
Donna

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Sunday, November 14, 2004 6:18 PM
Subject: sharia

Stoning in France

This stoning, which seems to have taken place in or near Marseilles, could be an event comparable to the murder of Theo van Gogh: another herald of the willingness of Muslims in Europe to take it upon themselves to enforce Sharia provisions. A friend in Marseilles has sent in this article from a French-language journal, 20 Minutes. My rough translation:

The alleged murderer of a 23-year-old Tunisian woman, The young woman's name was Ghofrane Haddaoui-whose stoned body was discovered on October 20, has been placed in police custody. The suspect, 18, arrested Sunday at his home, is an old acquaintance of the victim. He will be presented before the examining magistrate today.

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Saturday, November 13, 2004 6:12 AM
Subject: interview tomorrow?!?!

Dear Homa,

I just wanted to make sure if we will still meet tomorrow at 4 pm at the F.P.P.O. office, 747 Don Mills Road to make the interview. I would be very thankful if you could confirm my request.

Thank you very much.
Best,
Imke

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Thursday, November 11, 2004 7:43 AM
Subject: story in National post


Homa: 

Thanks for speaking to me yesterday regarding marriage of underage girls. My editor wants to do a big piece on sharia law, but we would like to talk personally to one of these young women who has been through this ordeal. We don't have to print their name or any other identification, but we would like to feature a personal story to open the piece. Please let me know if this will be possible to arrange. I think it would make your point on sharia that much stronger.

Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,
Isabel Vincent

Dear Homa,

It was great to see you in Toronto!
As I mentioned to you, I am teaching a course at McGill Law School from January to May 2005 (see the description below).

I would LOVE to have you on February 11th 2005 as a guest speaker for the session entitled Muslim Men, Muslim Women, and the Ontario Islamic Court Debate--an Unhappy Marriage?

Would you be willing to come speak to my students? Please let me know as soon as possible.
We would love to have you here!

V.v. warmly,

Pascal

Advanced Problems in Constitutional Law: The Adjudication of Otherness in Constitutional Liberal States
In many constitutional liberal states in the world, members of minority groups have asked for a degree of autonomous jurisdiction in matters as wide-ranging as educational policies, the regulation of marriage and divorce, language rights, and land claims. As a response to these increasing group-accommodation claims, liberals have argued that cultural rights wrongly place the autonomy of the group over the autonomy of the individual, and in so doing suppress the rights of women and children by promoting conservative visions of the community over progressive ones. In adjudicating "differences", what personal and ethical dilemmas are presented by balancing the often competing goals of respecting multicultural values, preserving the interest of the State, and protecting women's equality? This seminar will provide a forum for critically examining the role of law in culturally producing and rigorously disciplining individuals within particular systems of power.

We will begin by discussing key texts on multiculturalism, liberalism, and critical legal studies. Some of the questions we will ask are: What is and what should be the role of law in the constitution, production, and regulation of identities? How does one translate plural, multiple identities into the language, formalities, and structural nature of the law? Can law regulate without recourse to categories that produce and reify preconceived identities? Why is the legal recognition of the "Other" a good thing, and what would a distributional analysis of identity politics entail? Does recognition of law's constitutive effects leave any hope for constructive empowering action? In the second part of the course, we will turn to "multicultural controversies" in a variety of liberal democracies such as the wearing of the hijab in public schools (France, Quebec, Germany), schooling and the Amish (US), Quebec/Canada relations and language rights (Canada), and Muslim demands for Islamic family law (UK, Germany, US, and Canada).

Evaluation: Class participation (20%); three reaction papers of 5 pages, focusing on the reading for that week (no external research required) (20%); final essay of 25 pages (60%).

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 10, 2004 6:50 AM

Dear Ms Arjomand:

I have been reading your press notices about Sharia law and I would like to ask you some questions (I have tried your number but have been getting only an answering machine):
1. You say that a sharia court in Canada would put women and children at risk. Are there arranged marriages that go on in the Muslim community involving girls under the age of consent today?

2. In your opinion, are Muslims in Canada generally moderate or are they more hardline. Could you describe the Muslim response to your petition. I will call you later, but for now I would be really grateful if you could answer these questions.

Best regards,
Isabel Vincent
The National Post

Cc: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Thursday, October 10, 2002 6:34 PM
Subject: I Want to support that cause !


Hello, 

I am an intervenor at the Elizabeth Fry Society of Quebec, wich help the women who faces the penal system. 
I want to know more informations about this subject and how to support you. How can I reach a copy of that petition ?
Thank you in advance.

Karine Toussaint

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Wednesday, November 10, 2004 7:49 PM
Subject: RE: News Release - Sharia_Panel_FINAL.doc


Hello Homa,

I am heading to Toronto Sunday -- would you be available to meet with me for an interview on Monday, November 15th? I'm free anytime after 11 ayem. It shouldn't take too much of your time, perhaps 20 minutes at the most, but would be great for my story.

Allbest, Jackie

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Tuesday, November 09, 2004 10:01 AM
Subject: Marilou to Homa re your resolution 


Hi Homa: 
If you are going to reference section 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and freedoms in your resolution, you may want to also add in refernce to the specific protection in section 28 of the Charter, which strengthens women's religious freedom in s.2 and women's equality rights in s. 15. 
To be genuine, constitutional freedom of religion includes women's constitutional equality rights, as articulated in sections 28 and 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Section 28 is the sex equality guarantee added as a direct result of Canadian women's grass roots activism in the constitution building process 20 years ago, which states 
"Notwithstanding anything in this Charter, the rights and freedoms referred to in it are guaranteed equally to male and female persons." 

I hope you find this information to be helpful. 

Warm regards to you Homa, 
Marilou 

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Tuesday, November 09, 2004 7:08 PM
Subject: RE: Christopher Hitchens


Homa, 

I don't know you feelings about the US election. That said, I heard Christopher Hitchens, the iconoclastic Britain who writes for American publications, on CBC radio last week. Hitchens' view of Bush's war on terror is that the campaign is misnamed. Hitchens would suggest that Bush's war should be called a campaign against the infiltration radical Islam into Western institutions. Whether you agree with Hitchens, or not, his point of view does provide a different perspective on the Sharia problem in Ontario. I've enclosed a copy of his recent article, below.

F. G. Vaughn Marshall

Counsel
Marshall Attorneys
Trial Lawyers
Sun Life Plaza, West Tower
2600, 144 - 4 Avenue SW
Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 3N4
Website: http://www.marshall-attorneys.com

Sent: Monday, November 08, 2004 6:16 PM
Subject: criminal INjustice

Hello,

I recently read Sally Armstrong's article entitles "Criminal Justice" in the most recent issue of Chatelaine and was shocked by the struggles that Muslim women suffer under Sharia law. The story of Minoo Homily and her daughter Tara was well written and researched. I am appalled that Canada, and most recently Ontario, has endorsed Sharia law. I agree whole heartedly with Andre Cote who is quoted as saying that "By accepting Sharia law, we're renouncing 30 years of law reform in Canada. It's a loss for women."
I was given your e-mail address by Rona Maynard, editor of Chatelaine, and told that you are starting a petition. How can I help make my voice heard to
prevent this "Criminal INjustice"?

Thank you very much.
-David Szaraz
Toronto, Ontario

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, November 08, 2004 8:48 AM
Subject: Thank you for all your information

I find your information regarding the Sharia in Canada extremely interesting . I only hope that you can give a speech at sometime in Montreal, people I talk to , find it unbelivable, that this is happening in Canada, have you contacted LE Federation des Femmes de Quebec, what about the National Action Committee on The Status
of Women, there web site is notoriusly quiet regarding this subject. I realise rhat you are a busy woman, I am bilingual , so if you need help IN qUEBEC , THAT IS
WERE i AM FROM mONTREAL TO BE EXACT.,FELL FREE TO DROP ME A NOTE. 

jOANNE

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Sunday, November 07, 2004 11:41 PM
Subject: Re: 

Homa, Thank you for making this speech. 
It is so important that you draw attention to this possible misuse of "arbitration" You are right that some women will have their "Canadian rights" denied.
Have you heard about the situation for women and children in Bountiful BC? This is a fundamentalist Mormon group that abuses women and young girls in the name of Religion.

Thank you,
Karen KIlbride

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2004 1:14 PM
Subject: RE: 


Excellent argument. When are you coming to London, Ontario?

Anything planned for the London area in the future? Demonstrations?

Ted

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2004 2:09 PM
Subject: Re: 


Hello Homa,

A small matter that you may wish to take into consideration the next time you give a presentation like the one below - England still has an official religion - The Anglican Communion otherwise known as The Church of England. I believe that Spain still recognizes Roman Catholicism as its official religion and I'm sure there are others, like Ireland. The thing that's important is that these countries, for the most part, don't force their beliefs on others and that the laws are secular. (However, Ireland still does not allow birth control, to say nothing of abortion.)

Keep up the good work.

Frank O'Hara

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2004 3:43 PM
Subject: list server software


Dear Homa

Did you know that you have available the Mail Man list server on nosharia.com? It can simplify the process of sending numbers of emails and allow people to subscribe and/or unsubscribe from a list. 
One word of caution. A list server needs to be configured to fit your needs and you probably do not want a discussion list where anyone can post a message. Its easy to configure. 
If interested I'll walk you thru the process of setting up one or more lists. 

Al

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2004 9:12 PM
Subject: Re: 


Hi Homa. I am alarmed at the apathy of people to the attack on Canadians and others via the sharia law.
On a survey of students at carleton university concluded Nov.2 2004, 5 of 79 students noted that that they didn't know anything about it. I sent a copy of (your?) spech to the boards of the local humanist group and the 
student freethought group and will get some feedback from them. I can also access their general membership list later. I'll access your www.site now. 

Al Parsons 

To: Homa Arjmand 
Cc: Matin Ahmed 
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2004 1:55 PM
Subject: Re: 


I greatly appciate your speech in the Panel discussion, and I must congratulate you profusely. I particularly like your views on the individual or personal relationship with Allah or God, rather than the communal one, that has been the cause of human sufferings in the annals of history. I also endorse fully your views on multiculculturism policy of Canada. Otherwise well-intentioned, it is now degenerating into obnoxious seperations of communities in ugliest forms. 
Please keep up your fight for the truth. My bestwishes from Ottawa.
Mohammed Jalaluddin

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Wednesday, November 03, 2004 8:08 AM
Subject: RE: News Release - Sharia_Panel_FINAL.doc


Dear Ms. Arjmand,

I am a reporter with National Public Radio and am working on a story about Sharia law. I sent you an earlier message about this but I'm not sure if you received it. Anyway, I will be in Toronto area in mid-November and hope you can spare just a bit of time to do a radio interview with me. I plan to be there Nov. 15-16. Will you be available?

Thank you,
Jackie Northam
National Public Radio

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 03, 2004 8:12 AM
Subject: Fwd: 13-year old Iranian schoolgirl facing death by stoning;
flogged 55 times

Hello Homa, 

Please forward this very disturbing news to others. I hope your group can take some action to prevent this miscarriage of justice on a thirteen year old.
From the religious perspective, stoning to death for adultery is not prescribed in the Qur'an and this can be used as an argument. Mullahs only listen to religious arguments. If you need to further support this through religious arguments please let me know. This is an absolute outrage.

Regards
Farzana Hassan-Shahid
Muslims Against Terrorism

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Wednesday, November 03, 2004 12:42 PM
Subject: I agree with you!

Homa,

How can I and my friends add our names to the list of people protesting this would be addition to Canada law?
Bronwen Yewdall, Winnipeg.
PS I reah the article in the magazine "Scartlett" dated O/N 2004

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 03, 2004 10:59 AM
Subject: Rép. : News Release - Sharia_Panel_FINAL.doc

Dear Homa,

Would it be possible to put my address on your list as well?

Thank you very much
Alexandra Szacka

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Wednesday, November 03, 2004 1:35 PM
Subject: samira and sharia


Hi Homa Joon,

One of my profs told me that you are speaking @ the faculty of law on Thursday, but did not give a time, location etc.
I also can't find it on the nosharia.com website. I am quite eager to attend, i will also do some more research to find out when and where exactly.
I hope you are doing well,

ba mehr,
samira mohyeddin.

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Monday, November 01, 2004 1:51 PM
Subject: Speech of Oct 28-2004


Homa: I am forwarding your speech of Oct. 28, 2004 to various politicians in the federal government and to the Alberta government (justice minister) as well. What you have said is so well written. I will continue to do all I can to support your worthy cause and alert. I do feel ashamed that it continues to be just you fighting for this right - to remove religion from state justice. 

Sonia has told me that Jan 22 and 23 will be good for you to come to Edmonton and Calgary. I have asked her to contact you and determine when is the better times for you to fly here and where to stay over, either Edmonton or Calgary. In any case, Sonia will be contacting you for this information. I prefer Sonia be your main contact since she is organizing and booking lecture rooms. They are very excited about your coming visit as are Judy Johnson and myself.

Talk to you soon. Lynda Anderson

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, November 01, 2004 3:14 PM
Subject: Re: panel speech at the MATRAC on october 28, 2004.doc;


> Thank you for forwarding your speech to me. I will be sure to use some of your points in my paper's discussion and I will email it to you when it is finished - it is due Dec 17, 2004.

If you have more material, please keep it coming.

Thanks,
Polina Hristov.
3rd year law student
Dalhousie University
Halifax, NS

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, November 01, 2004 3:14 PM
Subject: Re: panel speech at the MATRAC on october 28, 2004.doc;


Thank you for forwarding your speech to me. I will be sure to use some of your points in my paper's discussion and I will email it to you when it is finished - it is due Dec 17, 2004. 
If you have more material, please keep it coming.

Thanks,

Polina Hristov.
3rd year law student
Dalhousie University
Halifax, NS

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Monday, November 01, 2004 6:00 AM
Subject: sharia law in Canada


Dear Ms. Homa,

I am interested in helping in any way I can.
I am not Muslim.
I am Christian.
I am white.

But more importantly, I am a woman. 
How can I help??? 

Thank You
Resa Burrows 

To: 'Homa Arjmand' 
Sent: Monday, November 01, 2004 1:51 PM
Subject: Speech of Oct 28-2004

Homa: I am forwarding your speech of Oct. 28, 2004 to various politicians in the federal government and to the Alberta government (justice minister) as well. What you have said is so well written. I will continue to do all I can to support your worthy cause and alert. I do feel ashamed that it continues to be just you fighting for this right - to remove religion from state justice. 

Talk to you soon. 
Lynda Anderson

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Monday, November 01, 2004 7:48 AM
Subject: Re: panel speech at the MATRAC on october 28, 2004.doc;

Good Morning Stella,

I enjoyed speaking with you this morning and am forwarding this information per our conversation. I wish you the very best as you begin to address your own issues around violence against women. Have a great start to this week.

Sincerely,

Dorothy Hogarth
Webspinners on the Net

From: Jane G. 
To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Sunday, October 31, 2004 9:21 AM
Subject: Re: No Sharia Campaign - Planning Meeting - Monday Nov. 1st - 12 Noon

Sunday Oct. 31

Re: No Sharia Campaign

Thanks for your many messages - and for the latest one this morning. I wish I could take part in your work, as I am totally against what is happening in my country. Living on the West Coast, where we have a large Muslim community, there have been rumbles about this very subject, so I gather it is a National issue. Please keep in touch and, if it should come to the point where there is something to be done in B.C., I am willing and able to assist.

Sincerely,

Jane Gaudry
jegaudry@telus.net

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Sunday, October 31, 2004 9:32 AM
Subject: Re: panel speech at the MATRAC on october 28, 2004.doc; 

Thank you very much......That was an AMAZING EMAIL which should be given to all Muslim women on their way to their Mosque's, I am sure there are a lot of them who do not understand what you are trying to do for them.

You are an amazing individual!!!!!

Sincerely
Fran

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Sunday, October 31, 2004 9:25 AM
Subject: Re: Fw: No Sharia Campaign - Planning Meeting - Monday Nov. 1st -
12 Noon

Hi!
Sorry I will not be able to attend as I have a committment at 11:30 - 1:00 p.m. and I would not like to go into the meeting late.

Sincerely
Fran

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Sunday, October 31, 2004 10:44 AM
Subject: RE: panel speech at the MATRAC on october 28, 2004.doc;


Dear Homa,

Thank you for sending a copy of your speech of October 28. I have made a print-out, which I intend to give to my Provincal Member of Parliament. I have already written him, stating many of the facts you mentioned at the Club. I know my MP and MPP fairly well, since I am an active member of the Liberal Party. Let us hope the campaign is very successful!

Mary 

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Friday, October 29, 2004 11:31 AM
Subject: university women's club


Hi Homa
Thank you for an exceptional presentation at the University Women's Club on Oct. 14. Someone said it was one of our best ever and the women are very concerned and will be following the issues. The clubs across the country do a variety of resolutions and this year Kanata ON near Ottawa is doing one on Equality in Family Law. They have a website
www.formark.com/cfuw/kanata which would give contact numbers. Ill see what I can learn.
See you Mon. noon . Please notify club re numbers 

To: <homawpi@rogers.com.>
Sent: Friday, October 29, 2004 10:20 AM


I would like to add my name to the petition against Sharia law in Canada.

Tammy Kay
Penticton, B.C.
Canada

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Friday, October 29, 2004 12:13 PM
Subject: Thank you

Hi Homa,

I just wanted to thank you for your time yesterday evening. It was a very informative and inspiring talk. If you don't mind, I will be calling you Monday or Tuesday, just to double-check the accuracy of my notes. Otherwise, I will come to the panel discussion at the U of T on November 4th.

Have a nice weekend!
Roland

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Friday, October 29, 2004 12:31 PM
Subject: university women's club


Hi Homa,

Thank you for an exceptional presentation at the University Women's Club on Oct. 14. Someone said it was one of our best ever and the women are very concerned and will be following the issues. The clubs across the country do a variety of resolutions and this year Kanata ON near Ottawa is doing one on Equality in Family Law. They have a website: 

www.formark.com/cfuw/kanata 

which would give contact numbers. I'll see what I can learn.
See you Mon. noon . Please notify club re numbers at 416 979 . 2000 on Mon AM.

All the best 
Marilyn Ashby

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 2004 5:18 AM
Subject: Re: Interview on Tuesday?

Dear Homa,

I will in university exactly at this time on the Nov 10. If there would be a chance to meet any other day, I would be very thankful. If not, I would skip class und meet you.
Could you send me your phone numer that I can call you in the beginning of the week of Nov 10?

Thanks and all the best,
Imke

Cc: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 2004 8:42 AM
Subject: lecture


I am preparing a discussion paper for my "justice group" at an Anglican Cathedral in Vancouver. I will not be able to accept the invitation to attend the November 4/04 debate. I am ,however, interested in Professor Shashar's lecture on "the main issues raised by the interaction of religious and state norms"; Would it be possible to forward me a copy to my e-mail address? 

Hilrie Reimer

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 2004 2:11 PM
Subject: RE: 


Thank you, Homa, for the invitation to attend the AGM of METRAC, but unfortunately I shall be busy that evening. Thank you, too, for the other notices you have sent.

May your great efforts for such a worthy cause pay off!

Mary

To: homawpi@rogers.com

Sent: Monday, October 25, 2004 9:46 AM

Subject: Invitation- Human Rights Dialogue

Dear Ms. Arjomand,

I am writing from the Carnegie Council on Ethics and International Affairs to invite you to submit a short essay on Sharia law in Canada for our upcoming issue of Human Rights Dialogue.  Human Rights Dialogue is a forum for advocates, scholars, and policymakers to demonstrate how people around the world receive, respond to, and operationalize the human rights standards enshrined in international law.

The next issue of Dialogue is on cultural rights, and will examine why cultural rights are important, their potential range of application, and the tensions between cultural rights and other rights.  We are very interested in getting an essay about the debate over Sharia law in Canada, and believe that you would be well-suited to write such a piece. 

Ideally, we would like to see an essay that explores the relationship between "cultural" and "religious" rights, using the current debate over Sharia law in Canada as a case study. Is there a difference between cultural rights and religious rights? Are they in conflict? Or, alternately, does the defense of religious rights open the door to cultural rights, that is, as an incipient cultural rights defense?

We hope that you would be interested in submitting a short (1200 word) essay for consideration in this issue, and would be happy to discuss the invitation in greater detail. I'm attaching the Call for Essays below, which contains all of the details and guidelines for submission. (It is also available at www.carnegiecouncil.org/page.php/prmID/114.)

Thank you in advance for your time.  I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Morgan Stoffregen
(Ms.) Morgan Stoffregen
Managing Editor, Human Rights Dialogue
Carnegie Council on Ethics and International Affairs

New York,

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Thursday, October 21, 2004 6:14 PM
Subject: Questions on Legal Research for Sharia in Canada

Hello Ms. Arjomand:

First off, I wish to commend you in your fight and the mission of your group. It is truly inspiring.
I am an Iranian-American law student living in the United States and I am writing a comparative law article on the potential adoption of sharia in Ontario province. The article is slated for publication in my school's Law Review journal in Fall 2005. I am currently doing preliminary research on the web by examining the Canadian Charter of Rights and studying the various schools of sharia to see if implementation of sharia can reasonably be in accord with the standards for gender equality in Ontario. My question to you is this: do you know of any legal sources, books, publications, etc. that deal with any part of this issue that I can use for reference? My research must be original, however, the note I am writing must be 60-100 pages typed so I need a wide variety of on-line and off-line sources.

I know that you are very busy, however, I would greatly appreciate any help you can offer.
In addition, I am also writing a piece about you and The Campaign Against Sharia Court in Canada for the IranDokht website [visit us at www.irandokht.com ] so that Iranian women may read about your campaign and contribute to your cause!

Kind Regards,
Gissou Azarnia

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Thursday, October 21, 2004 3:10 PM
Subject: Re: thank you


Hi Ms. Arjmand: Thank you so much for keeping me informed. I look into this matter daily and will continue writing to my members of Parliament.

Thank you for all your hard work and efforts.

Sincerely, Jane Moseley

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Thursday, October 21, 2004 9:42 AM
Subject: Seeking information on Sharia law protest in Ontario

Hello Homa Arjomand,

I am writing an article on the current movement to oppose Sharia Court in Ontario, for a U.S.-based humanist newspaper, News & Letters, with an international readership (can be found online at www.newsandletters.org). I have been very impressed with your hard work and profound thoughts and ideas in this area that I have found online. I understand there was supposed to be a report filed with the Ontario government by Marion Boyd on Sept. 30 . I have not been able to find out if this happened and what was recommended. My deadline is October 29. Can you tell me if this has occurred, or direct me to where I might find a copy of the report? If you have time, I would, of course, appreciate any thoughts you might want to share with our readers. Thank you for any help or ideas you can give me. 
Mary Jo Grey

NEWS & LETTERS / NEWS AND LETTERS COMMITTEES
36 S. Wabash, Room 1440
Chicago IL 60603
U.S.A.
INTERNET http://www.newsandletters.org

Dear Homa Arjomand

Kudus for your campaign against Sharia law in Canada. I published your speech "Make My Community Safe" in www.faithfreedom.org site. (Look in the main page top)
Please count on me for your future activities and let me promote your cause. 
I also placed a link to your site in my link page.
If you want to reciprocate, here are some nice buttons and banners you might want to use: http://www.faithfreedom.org/linktous.htm

Kind regards.

Ali Sina 

Subject: gazette.column

Religious law has no place in CanadaMontreal Gazette Friday, September 17, 2004 Page: A21 Section: Editorial / Op-Ed Byline: JANET BAGNALL Column: Janet Bagnall Source: The Gazette Recently, a Toronto woman, the mother of four girls age 5 to 15, was put on a plane by her husband. He was sending her back to her parents in Pakistan.The husband later sent the 15-year-old daughter to Pakistan, but not to be with her mother. Instead, the girl is staying with his brother and soon will be married
off to someone she does not know.The three younger girls live with their father in a Toronto suburb. They desperately want their mother home."We cannot reach the mother, we cannot contact the oldest girl," said Toronto social worker Homa Arjomand, who is co-ordinator of the International Campaign Against Sharia Courts in Canada. "We don't know what happened. The only thing we have learned is that the 13-year-old told her school principal that the imam at the mosque got her mother to agree to an Islamic divorce. The girl is so worried about her mother."All this heartbreak and turmoil was caused by the husband's desire for a younger wife. It turns out he has already remarried - to a 19-year-old who is in Pakistan, waiting to join him in Toronto.This, Arjomand warns, is the face of sharia in Canada. Currently, it is a legally binding option only in Ontario. The Ontario government this summer ordered a review of the arbitration act, which allows religious groups to settle civil matters in their own courts. In Quebec, there is no legal standing to private decisions on divorce or child custody.Theoretically, the banished mother had the option of appealing the imam's decision to a secular Ontario court, if in fact there even was something as formal as a ruling made. Given the secrecy of the proceedings, this is not something anyone except the imam and the
husband know.But to appeal, the mother would have had to know an appeal was possible under Canadian law; have the money to hire legal counsel; understand English or French; be prepared to be banished from the Muslim community in Toronto; be able to support herself and her children.Under sharia, generally speaking, the husband's testimony usually prevails, since a woman's testimony counts only half that of a man's. Under sharia, a man can divorce his wife by declaring that fact three times.Ontario opened the door to religious-based arbitration hearings for both civil matters and family law in 1991 with its Arbitration Act. 
Christians and Jews as well as Muslims use the law. The law imposes no standards, limits or training. No records are kept or legal representation required. Only the award goes to court for execution. Muslim women are not the only people concerned by the act's provisions, or lack of them.Evelyn Brook, president in Montreal of the Coalition of Jewish Women for the Get, said in the Canadian Jewish News that one of the issues facing Jewish women is whether they can trust a beit din, a religious court.It doesn't help matters that Ontario's Arbitration Act was designed less for religious freedom than to save money by steering cases away from an overtaxed court system. But at what cost?Pascale Fournier of McGill University law school, speaking of sharia, thinks the cost is proving far too high: "It is too much power to hand to a system whose laws are
unknown to Canada, whose decisions are made in private, whose recommendations can lead to human rights abuses. We just don't know what's going on in these communities."Fournier, who is writing a doctoral dissertation on the interaction between law, Muslim women and constitutional liberal states, said the lack of public scrutiny is critical. No details of a decision ever appear in regular court."Was the woman pressured into giving up child custody? Did she forfeit property rights willingly? None of this is known. Sessions are not open to the public."In Quebec, Salam Elmenyawi, head of the Muslim Council of Montreal, said in a recent interview with the weekly Mirror that his group has been holding quiet talks with the Quebec justice department. 
The group wants the Charest government to change provincial law to recognize binding sharia arbitration - as in Ontario.On no account should the Quebec government follow suit. There is no justification for the introduction of religious-based arbitration tribunals. Multiculturalism cannot be allowed to jeopardize the human rights of Canada's most vulnerable immigrants - women and children.Quebec has secular laws that are applied, or should be, equally to all citizens, whatever their background, religion, language or gender. If they fail in that regard, which they do periodically, at least it's the same set of laws that applies to us all. Failures tend to be open, often spectacular and amenable to correction.None of that is true of religious-based tribunals with their captive populations and secret

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, October 18, 2004 6:40 AM
Subject: ADR and sharia law Question from Law student

Hi Ms. Homawi

I am a 3rd year law student at Dalhousie University, and am currently writing a paper on ADR and the application of shari'a law in settling family disputes. I have read a number of your speeches on the issue and would like to ask for your direction in my research.

Since this is a relatively new issue in Canada, very little is written on the subject. It is a challenge to find acadimic writing or even official government policy. I am also aware that shari'a courts have existed in Britain for decades but I cannot find much information on the subject in legal journals. Also, if there are protests against this practice in Sweden and other countries, sharia courts must be a much more widespread phenomenon than I anticipated.

Would you please direct me to some sources of information, statistics, or anything else that will be useful in uncovering what is already happening. 
I would really appreciate your help, and look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks for your time,
Sincerely,
Polina Hristov
3rd Year Law Student
Dalhousie University.

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Saturday, October 16, 2004 2:04 PM
Subject: Re: Interview availability/ Contacts

Hello Ms. Arjomand,

First of all, I'd like to thank you for the invitation to the HAT event at OISE yesterday. You gave an impressive speech, followed by a lively debate, which showed how complex an issue the approval of Sharia courts in Ontario is.
As I mentioned yesterday, I would be interested in meeting with you in person to talk about your work as an activist, both in Iran and Canada. This pertains the feature profile about your campaign that I am working on. In relation to that, I would appreciate it if you could provide me with some contacts who would be able to comment on you and the issues that you deal with as an activist (including friends, family members, colleagues and adversaries).
Below are some examples of the kind of contacts I am looking for:
--Fellow activists involved in the Campaign against Sharia Courts in Canada (preferably women of Muslim background, since that's the focus of my story). A couple of names that come to mind are Soheila Bayani and Nasreen Shah.
--Co-workers at your job as a transitional counsellor and clients affected by Sharia tribunals (respecting the condition of anonymity).
--Colleagues involved with the International Campaign for the Defence of Women's Rights in Iran.
--Your partner Mahmood Ahmadi, an activist in his own right. Apart from Sharia tribunals, I would also like to discuss the role of the Workers-communist Party of Iran (WPI) in the struggle against the theocratic regime in Iran.
--If possible, fellow activists living in Canada who you know from Iran.
--To my understanding, you have hosted a human rights show on Rogers Television. If possible, I would be interested in talking with some of the people you worked with on the show.
--And lastly, if you can think of some of your most vocal critics. I have talked with Saeed Soltanpour, coordinator of the Center for Thought, Dialogue and the Human Rights in Iran, and I plan to contact Syed Mumtaz Ali, who is an obvious choice, but I welcome any further suggestions.
So, this is more-or-less the list of people I want to talk with. I'd like to thank you again for taking the time to pass this on, and I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Thank you.

Best regards,
Roland Basha

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, October 18, 2004 8:30 AM
Subject: Interview for a german weekly

Dear Homa,

As you might have realized I have been to your event on Friday at the OISE. I found it very interesting and I very much appreciate your commitment as I think that your work is very important. When I contacted you in the beginning of my stay in Toronto I told you that I was thinking to write something about the sharia issue and your campaign for a german left-wing weekly, the Jungle World (www.jungle-world.com).
I told them about you and the event on Friday and was asked to make an interview with you. Another journalist, who lived in Toronto last year, will write an article as there should be released a report by the government. It was expected by the end of Sepetember. Don't know if you heared about it. It would be a very good combination to have an interview with you and an article about acurrent fact in one issue. And in general, it is really time to go into public with this topic in Germany as think that only a very few people are aware of what is going on here and what could come over there...
I wanted to ask if you would make an interview with me and if we could make an appointment. It would be not more than 30 minutes and about 10 or 15 questions. I would ask you about the situation in Canada, what is going on and what the threat is. Then it would be good to hear something about you and why you are committed, about your campaign, how the public reacts and what you think is going to happen in the future.

I hope for a good co-operation as we have the same interests.
Best,
Imke

------------------------------------

Your excellency the Governor General of Canada, Adrienne Clarkson:

I would like to express my dismay on hearing you say at the end of the recent Speech from the Throne that you wished that “divine guidance” would intervene in the Members’ of Parliament administration of their duties. This reference to a supernatural deity has sparked quite an outrage in me regarding the mention of god in our Canadian Constitution as well as in many aspects of government communication and actions.

Religion is strictly a private matter. It should not be allowed to enter in any way into any government communications or dealings; It has no place whatsoever in government speeches, observances and activities. Canadian government must honour the separation of church and state in its words as well as in its actions. What good is it to claim that we have separation of church and state in Canada, if the words or actions of a Head of State and government officials contradict that? Canada must guard not to follow the same path and do what is happening in the U.S.A. where fundamental religious sentiments have crept into all facets of government.

Yes, it is true that god is mentioned in the present Canadian Constitution. I feel that this is wrong and that any references to a supernatural deity have no place in a constitution of a country. I very strongly feel that such references must be excised. Mr Pierre Elliot Trudeau, who was Prime Minister during the repatriation of the Canadian Constitution from Great Britain, also thought this. The original draft of the Canadian constitution did not have any reference to god; Mr Trudeau, even though he was a religious man, insisted and argued that it must not. The powerful religionist lobby, however, bore down on him with such a barrage of pressure, that he finally acquiesced and a reference to god was inserted into the Constitution: "Whereas Canada is founded upon principles that recognize the supremacy of God....". A similar thing happened in the U.S.A. with the Oath of Allegiance—the original version of which did not contain any reference to god.

The Canadian constitution belongs to every Canadian and not just to those who believe in a supernatural deity and the wording in it must reflect that. By putting god in the Constitution and by invoking “divine guidance” in the Speech from the Throne, in effect, the government is excluding all those Canadians who are not religious and who do not believe in god or other supernatural deity. This is a very significant number of Canadians and is increasing every year. According to the last census, 28% of Canadians said that “they had no religion”; This is over 9.5 million people! . By saying “divine guidance” you, in fact, are excluding this large number of people. That is wrong

Another place that this is highly evident is in government Remembrance Day ceremonies. God is imposed on all soldiers. Was every soldier a believer in a supernatural deity? 

Is it not insulting and highly disrespectful to those soldiers who were and are not religious and those who do not believe in god who served our country with valour and even gave their lives for it in many wars? No mention whatever is ever made of those. A Humanist should be engaged to say something on behalf of those soldiers on Remembrance day. This has been delayed for too long. It is time for it now.

It is not fair, not just, and shows Canadian government’s disrespect for those who are not religious and those who do not believe in a supernatural deity. How can the religious be allowed to dictate to all Canadians and to impose the fetters of their beliefs on all citizens of a democratic country? It defies logic. How can that be allowed in a democratic country? It really is preposterous! 

I say: take god out of the constitution and out of all government communications and dealings. Let us make sure that we do, in fact, have a separation of church and state in Canada in word and deed.

I feel that governments must never bend under the high pressure lobbying tactics of groups who do not approve of equality for all. Decisions made as a result of such pressure do not serve the entire Canadian population. These decisions do not belong in a democratic country as they undermine everyone’s freedom and subvert everyone’s right to equality. The most recent case is the powerful lobby from political Islamists who are determined to instigate Shari’a law into the family arbitration process in Ontario’s Family Court. Everyone must fight against that! I heard an interviewee on CBC radio say that justice denied anywhere is justice denied everywhere. How true! Allowing this to take place in Ontario would just be equivalent to laying the first stepping stone to Shari’a spreading not just all over Canada but also all over the world because the Ontario situation could then be used as a precedent. 


Back to the Speech from the Throne.

“Divine guidance”? Exactly what is that? It’s a rather hazy expression--a floating concept not possible of being pinned down. It can mean a myriad of things to different people.

Would it not have been much, much better and meaningful to have said: “May your activities on the part of the citizens whom you represent in this house, in this great country of Canada, be mitigated by intelligence, respect, integrity, open-mindedness, fairness, compassion and kindness”? Now, this statement has some substance that one can sink one’s teeth into, cogitate on and truly use to guide one’s behaviour, does it not?

The duty and the mandate of a democratic Canadian government is to represent equally all Canadian citizens. By the inclusion of the word god in the Canadian Constitution, by talking about “divine guidance” in the Speech from the Throne, by pretending that that non-religious and non-believers in god do not exist in Canada and thereby giving itself the paltry excuse not to recognize and not to acknowledge at least 28% of Canadian citizens (such as in Remembrance Day ceremonies--to give just one example), the Canadian government is derelict in the carrying out of its duty and mandate.

Is the Government of Canada, by its words and actions, contravening Canadian citizens’ rights as described in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms?

A very concerned Canadian citizen,

Maria Kochan

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Monday, October 18, 2004 9:37 AM
Subject: letter to Gov. general and PM


Hello Homa,

I enjoyed meeting you on Sunday very much! I agree with what you say and how important it is not to allow Shari'a into Ontario. 

You are a very warm and passionate person fighting for justice. I was very impressed! too bad I din't hav As a result, I've decided to send you a draft of a letter I'm going to send to the Governor general and to the Prime-minister. At this point, please do not yet forward it to anyone else! I need to verify my statement that god is mentioned in the constitution. Also, I wonder if god is mentioned in the Canadian Bill of Rights? Do you know?

Sincerely,

Maria

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Monday, October 18, 2004 10:41 AM
Subject: Lettter to Gov. General - final draft


Hello again Homa!

Here is the final letter as sent to Gov. General and the Prime Minister: I give you permission to send it to your contacts and use it in your fight against Shari'a.I am also sending the same letter as an attachmenrt.
bye for now,
Maria

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Sunday, October 17, 2004 9:58 AM
Subject: signature


Hello Homa,

I was at the HAT meeting on Friday night and neglected to ask for the petition to sign. (I'm surprised you didn't "close the sale"!) I enjoyed your informative and important presentation.

Can I add my name to the petition online?

I will be sending an email to McGuinty, the minister of justice, and to my local MPP, who happens to be NDP so not so influential with the government. 

Frank O'Hara
www.ohara.com

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Saturday, October 16, 2004 1:13 PM
Subject: Speech 

Thank you very much for your email regarding your Speech at The University Womens Club, it was a "fantastic speech" You are doing an excellent job working for the good of other fellow human beings. Together we can all make a difference.
Please keep up the excellent work you are doing.....One day it will all pay off and others will have you to thank. We need more people like you.

Sincerely
Fran 

-----------------------------------


----- Original Message ----- 
From: Mary Pickup 
To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Saturday, October 16, 2004 2:11 PM
Subject: Thank you for coming to the University Women's Club


Dear Homa,

On behalf of the members of the University Women's Club I would like to thank you for the very informative and interesting talk you gave on Thursday. Most of us did not know how hard the Sharia Law is on women and children. I, for one, will now write to my M.P.P. to protest its use in Canada.

It was a pleasure to meet you, Homa, and I hope we shall see you again at the Club.

With best wishes for success in your wonderful campaign,

Sincerely,

Mary Pickup

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Sunday, October 17, 2004 8:44 AM
Subject: Your work with the Arbitration Act


Dear: Homa

Hello, my name is Heather Frederick and I got your contact information through Bev Lefrancois. I have read through many article and reviewed your website, and am very nervous about the potential introduction of a Sharia Court in Canada. I am still educating myself with respect to the background issues at this stage, however I am dedicated to writing a research piece on this issue. I wanted to contact you to introduce myself, and let you know what I am working on. I am currently a third year law student at the University of Toronto. For my Internatinoal Protection of Women's Rights class I have chosen to write about Sharia law under the Arbitration Act in Ontario, more specifically with respect to the potential infringement in practice of this act of women's rights and equality. I will be taking primarily an international perspective, looking at the Act through Canada's International obligations under the CEDAW convention and customary law. I also hope to touch on s.15 and 28 of the Charter in light of our international commitments.

My ultimate goal is to make recommendations, or at the very least point out the potential violations of intl law. I hope the paper might actually be useful to those working in the campaign? I am not sure if you have any thoughts or comments on my project? I noticed on your website that you will be coming to my law school in early November as part of a panel. I will definitely be there.

Thanks for all of your hard work,

Heather

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Friday, October 15, 2004 11:44 AM
Subject: RE: fatemeh 2


HOMA,
I think your talk at the club last night was a fantastic idea as the people there seem most helpful and I am sure they will get your message out to a lot of people in Ontario. You spoke very well.

Keep up the good work.
Nasreen

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Friday, October 15, 2004 9:14 AM
Subject: No Sharia Law Support


Good Morning Homa,

The Sharia Law issue was recently brought to my attention by my mother, my sister lives in Ontario and was outraged when she heard this was ready for 2nd reading in the Ontario legislature and word has spread through the family.

I am an independent business woman providing services for marketing and decided to use some of my recent connections to get some profile on this issue. I've recently worked on a national First Nations Conference and am aware that they are also trying to get protection from violence (often resulting in death) for Aboriginal women in Canada. First Nations people are being granted independent governement status for self-determination and have the ear of Government at both Federal and some Provincially levels. Yesterday morning I sent petition information to the "Institute of Advancement of Aboriginal Women" and had a response by phone this morning from the President, Dela Martin. She is circulating the information about your petition throughout her network to support this cause -- you have an ally! I have also circulated the petition information throughout my network of women associates and relatives. (See their website at: www.iaaw.ca See a copy of the message in blue below signature that was sent to IAAW yesterday).

Is there a key contact person I can name for additional information or possible offers of other support for your Petition? I have been asked this morning by Dela, if I am the contact person and confess I don't feel well enough informed to provide detailed information. Please advise at your earliest convenience. 

I've moved two weeks ago and am pretty busy getting re-established; however, if you can get me a contact name, phone number and e-mail, I will try to prepare a press release for local and other national media contacts in my media file. If you wish to preview the press release prior to my sending it, let me know. I am offering this assistance on a voluntary basis and expect no renumeration -- I absolutely don't want to see universal rights in Canada revoked. Especially the rights of women and children! 

Sincerely

Dorothy Hogarth
Webspinners on the Net
URL: www.webspinnersonthe.net
-------------------------------------
Sales, Marketing & Promotions for Independent Business Operators
- Websites, New and Existing Development, Marketing Preparation, Search Engine Optimization & Registration
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- Research & Reporting: Website, Search Engine Terms, Marketing and Sales
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I've read an article in Sweetgrass, Alberta's Aboriginal Newspaper, about the 2004 "Sisters in Spirit" walk in Edmonton. Over the past couple of years I've become increasingly aware of the inequities that still exist for women, especially minority women and feel that "under heaven we are all sisters". Today is the first time I've come to your site and after reading your objectives feel that the time is right for Canadian women to work together.

First Nations women are often victims of violence and abuse, Islamic women in Canada are not protected by basic human rights laws. Neither of these situations is correct or acceptable. I'm not sure what initiatives your organization may be taking to promote safe lives for First Nations women, but Islamic women are in trouble in Canada. Please see the petition at: www.nosharia.com for more information. An excerpt from this petition explains the plight of women Today in CANADA....
"On October 21st 2003, Muslim leaders in Canada elected 30 member council to establish a judicial tribunal for Muslims known as " the Islamic Institute of Civic Justice". The move is designed to persuade Canadian court to uphold decisions made under the Muslim Law. 

The International Campaign for the Defense of Women's Rights in Iran is running an International Campaign against this new move in Canada.

We strongly believe that this move is anti women's move and will push back women in the society in general. In the past 20 years, women's rights have been increasingly under attack by the Islamic governments and groups. Women are subject to abuse for disobeying social Islamic standards. Daily degradation of women, prohibition from many forms of employment, field of study and sports, sexual segregation in buses, schools and public places, Stoning to death of women or murdering them for sexual relations outside marriage, acid-throwing in the faces of women, and flogging for transgressing Islamic laws for improper behavior have been imposed on women under Islamic influence not only in countries such as Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan but also in Western countries."

Muslim leaders are claiming that this law, can be compared to Native Healing Circles used for Community justice. This simply is not true, your Healing Circles from what I understand are based upon the welfare of all concerned. In Muslim law, women (and children) as a man's property; can be beaten, banished to never see their children again, or killed with impunity.

If you could circulate this as far as possible in your own network and have women sign this petition soon -- this initiative is in the SECOND reading in Ontario from the information that I have received. ALL women must rise to address violence and safety issues for women and children. If there is anything your organization is initiating that I can assist with or support, please let me know. Thank you for taking the time to read this message and hopefully for your support for women in Canada.

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Thursday, October 14, 2004 9:59 AM
Subject: Re: Fw: fatemeh 2

Hello Homa,

I published your petition in the front page of faithfreedom.org 

Regards 
Ali Sina 

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Thursday, October 14, 2004 12:20 PM
Subject: wanting to help


Hello Homa,
I am a young, Canadian woman living in Toronto, Ontario. I found out about your campaign in November's edition of Chatelaine Magazine. I have put my name on your online petition. Is there any other way I can assist with your efforts?

Yours Truly,
Emma Hayfield

To: "Homa Arjmand" <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, October 13, 2004 7:12 AM
Subject: Re: Pictures for Gazette des femmes

Hello Homa,

Thank you for the information about the pictures. They will be easier to use since we can describe them now.
By the way, you didn't give me the address where I can mail you our magazine. We would like to send you a copy when it comes out.

Have a good day.

Annie Savoie
Rédactrice en chef adjointe
Gazette des femmes

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Wednesday, October 13, 2004 7:12 PM
Subject: Re: fatemeh 2


HI Homa,
Thanks for sending this. Have you seen the Chatelaine article on Sharia yet? It's out now. Getting lots of reaction. When is Marion Boyd suppose to report? Thank you very much for your help with this article. I really appreciate it.

Hope you're well.
Sally Armstrong

To: Homa Arjmand 
Sent: Monday, October 11, 2004 4:28 PM
Subject: Fwd: Shariah Law in Canada


I am fifth generation Canadian. 
My ancestors fought hard and long to help Canada develop into a land of freedom of speech, equality, open heart and kindness.
Canada is a sovereign nation with its own laws. 
Canadians must fight to protect Canadian Laws. 
“Oh Canada, we stand on guard for thee….

Of course there should never be shariah law in Canada. It is repressive and cruel. 
Perhaps the best and simplest argument to stop shariah law from entering our legal system 
is that we already have our laws. 

There should be no debate
as to whether this or that foreign law is good or bad.
It is simple. The laws of any other nation do not
belong in Canada.

I urge you to spread the word and the petition via the internet. Send an email to everyone you knowand tell them to go to www.nosharia.com


Sincerely,

Diane Williams

Diane F. Williams
International Executive
NSE
604-970-7789
diane_williams@shaw.ca
www.diane.mynuskin.com

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Tuesday, October 05, 2004 5:51 AM
Subject: Directions to interview location

Dear Homa,

We have completed arrangements to tape your Person 2 Person interview with Paula Todd at the King Edward Hotel in Toronto tomorrow (Wednesday, Oct 6).
The King Edward is located at 37 King St. East. This is just 2 blocks east of Yonge St. so it is very easy to reach by subway. Please arrive at the hotel lobby at 1:00 p.m. (or a few minutes before) and I will be waiting for you at the desk of the Concierge to take you up to the room. I have seen your picture in the newspaper so I'm quite sure
I'll recognize you.
If possible, I would appreciate it if you could bring along any family photos, videos, or other artifacts that will help us illustrate your biography. If you cannot bring them along tomorrow, I can arrange to meet with you another time to go over these.
I would appreciate it if you would acknowledge receipt of this email so I can be sure we are on the same page. Please don't hesitate to call me today if you have any questions. 

I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Best wishes,
Frances Petruccelli
Associate Producer
Person 2 Person with Paula Todd

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Wednesday, October 06, 2004 4:31 PM
Subject: Information from Lynda Anderson


First, dates January 22 and 23 were selected as a starter. If those days are not suitable for you, make any necessary changes. Second, spoke with a lovely lady Sonia Bitar from Changing Together. The organization has a web site www.changingtogether.com
She is anxious to meet you and was thrilled to hear about you. She did request, once the dates for your trip here were set, that you fax a little "bio" on yourself (sort of general interest about you for others to read) and she will start to fax and email to all her contacts the dates of the speaking and about you as well. If perhaps just emailing the info to her office is better for you and avoids unnecessary costs, that would be ok, I am sure. I will be meeting with Sonia on Oct 12. She graciously invited me
(and Judy Johnson who is also helping organize and her husband is paying for your flight here and back) to coffee - I am delighted to go and meet with her. She sounds like a very "together" lady. 
Third, my next contact was Kamanl Soghal in Calgary. She would have loved to have you speak at a conference they are having this month in Edmonton. However, I do not feel that the full potential of your coming here would be realized - we want to cover all our connections and arrangements. I often find that haste is not good in matters as important as this.
Fourth, we will make more specific times and places when Judy and I meet with Sonia. Then Judy and I will be attending two conferences in Edmonton - and Kamanl will be coming for them. That will allow us to coordinate Edmonton and Calgary.
The ladies are so excited about your coming. They have wonderful ideas and are very enthusiastic. This will, I know, be a very excellent "news" item and will make a difference.
I will call you Thursday - October 7th - If I miss you do not worry, I will try through the week until I link up with you. 
Take care and talk with you soon.

Lynda Anderson

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Tuesday, October 05, 2004 2:21 PM
Subject: Panel Discussion

Dear Homa:

As per our discussion today, I have checked with our facilities and Metro Hall Council Chambers is available on NOV 9th from 2 to 5 p.m. Also Councillor McConnell who has lead Women's Issues at the City is available on that day. 
1) Please let me know if this is good for you. 
2) We also need to include on the panel, women/men from other Muslim communities within the context of the diversity of Muslim communities in Toronto.
3) I know Tarek Fatah has spoken out against it. Let me know if you would like to include him on the panel.
Would Marilou McPhedran, Charter lawyer be of value to your panel?
4) Would you prefer hosting a debate with the pros and cons i.e. invite Syed Mumtaz Ali or Mohd ElMasry, Bnai Brith to present their views ....at this panel?
5) Any particular person who can talk about the Arbitration Act?

Thanks and Take Care,
Cassandra Fernandes
Diversity Management and Community Engagement Consultant
CITY OF TORONTO
Chief Administrator's Office
Strategic and Corporate Policy Division
100 Queen Street (W), 10E
Toronto, ON, M5H 2N2

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Friday, October 08, 2004 8:44 AM
Subject: SHARIA IN CANADA


My name is Joanne Scullion I work in an Emergency room , I an trying to find a positive approach when dealing with Muslim Women especially their husbands . The
problem is when there is no female doctor available and as health care providers we are faced with a moral and of course ethical dilemma. when their husbands
refuse care for their wives I am talking about emergency treatment, especially for pregnant women .
The reality of Canadian society is that we are not gender segregated, which is very difficult for the husbands to understand.In another vein do we discriminate against male doctors because of someones religious beliefs I have written to many Muslim women's groups to no avail. In my self avowed ignorance I have read the Koran , I am in no way a scholar but Ihave not found anything , does it not say that the husband should provide for the necessities of live please excuse my , what could be perceived has
presumptuous on my part. 
I would like to find an approach that can help these women, 
please write back 
Joanne

To: homawpi@rogers.com 
Sent: Monday, October 04, 2004 10:04 AM
Subject: the sharia in canada two sets of laws 


Tell us the non muslims how to combat this medieval law that it does not take root on canadian soil, What can I do as a ordinary woman born in Canada of Irish and Scottish heritage should we write our m.p Quebec seems to be more aware of this possibility , I have reas Yolande Gheada her book in french le voile demasque and of course Gearldine brooks Nine parts desire I do not want this , law to have any legality in Canada tell me what I can do gender equality is so important to Joanne

To: <homawpi@rogers.com>
Sent: Monday, October 04, 2004 1:07 PM
Subject: Your interview with Danielle Stanton


Dear Ms. Ardjomand :

I left you a message on your answering machine earlier. Danielle Stanton, who did an interview with you about the Islamic court in Ontario, just gave me your e-mail.
First of all, I would like to thank you for giving us an interview. We appreciate it very much.
I thought it might be easier for you to send me a e-mail than to reach me by phone. So, as I said in my message, I wanted to know if you have a picture of you that we could reproduce in our article. It can either be on paper (we would send it back to you) or a digital picture that you could send us by e-mail.

Thank you in advance for taking time to answer me.

My best regards,

Annie Savoie
Rédactrice en chef adjointe
Gazette des femme

From:

To: homawpi@rogers.com

Sent: Tuesday, September 07, 2004 11:20 AM

Subject: Urgent need of the Petition in French

Would you post the petition in French as well if I would give it to you?  I
am a writer/managing editor of a Canadian governement publication and could
get the translation done and revised by a professional editor free.  This
petition could receive a lot of support in Quebec, a French canadian
province, and surely France as well.  Thanks you!

Francine Roy

fax:+44 870 135 8385

Sazman e azadi zan
azadizan@yahoo.com

THE MAIN GOALS OF IFLAC

(Voluntary Association No. 58-035-275-5)

To strive toward the promotion of peace and mutual respect between people and nations.

To promote social, cultural and religious tolerance between people.

To eliminate violence in all its forms.

To organize peace culture researchers, writers, intellectuals and friends of literature.

To encourage creativity that promotes culture and peace.

PURPOSE OF THE IFLAC ORGANIZATION

We believe that culture and literature can promote peace, freedom, and the enrichment of the quality of life. We shall endeavor to pave the way towards the fulfillment of our main ideal “one world and one humanity, all living in peace”. Our goal is to help build a Middle East and a world beyond war in the 21st century, by means of literature, culture and art. This endeavor is in harmony with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights embodied in the Charter of the United Nations. We strive for freedom of speech and expression, and for freedom from hostile and oppressive violence, whether it is war, or gender, physical, mental or moral oppression. We believe in the right of people everywhere to live in peace, and in their rights to pursue their various cultures, as well as human endeavors, and to obtain equal civil justice.

ACTIVITY

Toward these ends, we organized an "International Congress on Conflict Resolution Through Culture and Literature," in Shavei Zion, Galilee, in June 1999, the Second Iflac Conference, in Sydney in 2001, the third Iflac Conference was held in London in 2002, and the fourth one was held in Bursa, Turkey, in October 2003. All these international conferences were greatly successful.

There are several branches of IFLAC in the world, including several Jewish, Muslim, Christian and Druze sectors in Israel, actively and harmoniously working together.

We hold regular literary and cultural meetings including: Lectures, Poetry Reading, Story-Telling, New Books celebrations, Literary Weekend Seminars, Cultural Festivals, Symposiums, Congresses.

PUBLICATIONS:

Galim: WAVES – PEACE CULTURE Anthology (1987-2003)

Horizon PAVE PEACE: online magazine (1996-2003)

www.New-Horizon.up.co.il

Lirit: Israeli Poetry in English Translation (1999-2003), in conjunction with the Hebrew Writers’ Association.

Ms Homa Arjomand,
Coordinator
International Campaign for the Defense of Women's Rights in Iran,
Canada.

Dear Ms. Homa

Congratulations for launching this timely and important international campaign against the reactionary move of some Muslim leaders to establish a judicial tribunal for Muslims known as 'the Islamic Institute of Civic Justice', in Canada.  Anyone who knows about what constitutes justice in the Sharia and its enforcement in Sudan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan and Pakistan must surely join your campaign against the worst designs of Muslim leaders in Canada.  It is also important to exert international pressure on the Canadian government to stop listening to the anti-women undemocratic and anti-secular claims of Muslim clerics and leaders.  Let not such forces gain hold.  We are here to stand in support of your campaign.

Please let us know what best we could do further to check this impending menace which is to affect thousands of Muslim sisters in Canada. 

Please let me know the address, email, fax details of the Prime Minister of Canada for further action.

With solidarity greetings,
Jaya Gopal
Coordinator
International Committee to Protect Freethinkers,

From Nader Baktash

615. Jacqueline FICHET Je suis libre-penseuse, féministe, nous avons le même problème en France. bravo pour ce que vous faites au Canada.

Man yek azad-andish va feministe hastam. Dar farance ham haman masaleh ra darim. Bravo baraye in karha.