NCCM endorses and echoes Imams’ denunciation of ISIS

-For Immediate Release-

(Ottawa – August 22, 2014) The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), a prominent Muslim civil liberties advocacy organization, endorses and reiterates the declaration today by the Canadian Council of Imams (CCI) which denounces violent extremism and terrorism by the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and Sham (ISIS).

“The NCCM joins the CCI today in reaffirming its categorical condemnation of extremist violence and terrorism of any kind, for whatever stated reason, by anyone and against any individual or group.

“We emphasize the sacredness of life and reject any express statement or tacit insinuation that anyone should harm innocent people. Our message to anyone who espouses, endorses, or in any way supports this ideology of violence, is that you have nothing to do with our faith.

“We call on the federal government to take all measures to ensure the safety of any Canadians in the region, and to continue to promote the safety and well-being of all religious minorities. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims of violence and atrocities committed by ISIS including, most recently, journalist James Foley.”

In July 2005, the NCCM coordinated a national statement by Canadian Imams which condemned terrorism and religious extremism. In August 2010, the CCI issued another declaration echoing a similar message.

CONTACT: Ihsaan Gardee, Executive Director, 613.254.9704 or 613.853.4111

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