Joining hands to end extremism and support peace

Jews and Muslims around the world are reeling from the escalating violence that is distorting the teaching of both our faith communities. Once again we find ourselves condemning a brutal act of violence in the Holy Land. Once again we see Jews and Muslims struggling to come to grips with events occurring half a world away, yet impacting us in Canada as if these were taking place in our own places of worships.  

In this emotionally charged atmosphere, opinions are polarized and feelings are raw. Jews call it a massacre and put the blame squarely on the shoulders of Palestinians and Muslim religious extremists. Muslims link this horrific attack to occupation, illegal settlements, demolition of homes, social injustice, inequalities and loss of hope and dignity. 

As violence escalates, so does anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. Both groups feel increasingly vulnerable, criticized and under attack. At this time, Jews and Muslims of goodwill who hope for a peaceful and secure world for our children and grandchildren need to stand together against hate-mongering and extremism – and call for mutual respect and non-violence. 

We strongly believe that to combat the scourges of Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, we have to address the sources of tension and then try to do something about them. We must be open to difficult conversations within and between our communities to understand what fuels extremism – and condemn those who incite violence. As respectful partners, we need to avoid offering those who spew provocative and hate-filled rhetoric a platform in our religious institutions.   

What happened in Jerusalem must not be allowed to divide Jewish and Muslim communities in Canada. Just the opposite – the Canadian model should be exported to the Middle East so that adversaries can see how a commitment to understanding and peace can achieve desired results.

This can only be achieved if Jews and Muslims embrace each other’s common humanity. Our core belief is that we are all equals; that the life of a Jewish child is as precious as that of a Muslim child; that the grief of a Muslim mother is as intense as that of a Jewish mother; and that kidnapping, imprisonment, murder and acts of violence are horrendous when committed by one group or the other. We cannot justify violence of one and condemn the other.   

We believe that no matter how intense the situation, dialogue is always possible. To listen is to understand and demonstrate respect – even if we disagree. Unless we learn to talk to each other, nothing fruitful can come about. We must choose to move forward instead of remaining stuck in the negative narrative that divides us.

Some will use this tragedy to polarize our communities and fan the flames of hatred. But we must stand together to raise our collective voices against bigotry and prejudice, and to pressure opinion-makers, governments, communities and religious leaders to adopt fairness, justice and peace as their overarching principles. Standing together would be a wonderful way to effectively address our shared desire for peace, security and mutual respect as Jewish and Muslim Canadians. n

Shahid Akhtar and Barbara Landau are co-chairs of the Canadian Association of Jews and Muslims. CAJM was created 18 years ago as the first bilateral Jewish and Muslim organization in North America and offers a venue where Jews and Muslims can come together.