Muslim Girl
The Quebec Human Rights Commission is pursuing a $13,000 settlement on behalf of a 12-year-old Muslim girl who was expelled from her karate class in Canada for wearing a hijab, as reported by Canadian media.
According to CTV News, the Commission stated, “For their part, the plaintiffs felt a feeling of injustice and exclusion. They remain worried about the effects of the situation in dispute for their daughter.”
The controversy arose at Montreal’s Karate Auto Defence Lamarre when an instructor informed the girl that she could not participate unless she removed her hijab.
The girl left the class in tears. The instructor defended her decision by citing the uniformity required in karate martial arts philosophy, where all students must wear the same attire.
However, Karate Canada, the national association, clarified that head coverings are permitted.
They have actively advocated with the World Karate Federation to allow athletes to wear head coverings, and this has been approved for use in competitions.
Despite this, Karate Auto Defence Lamarre operates independently and is not affiliated with Karate Canada.
The Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW) expressed deep concern over such incidents, noting the emotional impact on young individuals.
Shaheen Ashraf, a board member of CCMW, commented to CTV News, “I can well imagine a 12-year-old being told off like that because she joined the sport because she loved it. It’s about time that people stood up for their rights, you know, and it’s a basic human right.”
This case underscores broader issues of inclusivity and religious accommodation in sports and educational settings.
The rights commission’s intervention reflects ongoing efforts to address discrimination and ensure that all individuals, regardless of religious attire, can participate fully in activities they choose.
As discussions continue on ensuring inclusive practices across all sectors, incidents like these prompt reflection on upholding fundamental rights and accommodating diverse cultural and religious practices in Canadian society.
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