The Mayor of Toronto, Wearing a Hijab, Met with the City’s Muslim Community Leaders to Discuss What They Consider the Biggest National Problem in Canada: Islamophobia
Toronto, ON — April 22, 2025
In a powerful gesture of solidarity, the Mayor of Toronto attended a community dialogue with Muslim leaders on Monday evening while wearing a hijab, signaling her commitment to standing against rising Islamophobia in Canada.
The event, held at a community center in the heart of Scarborough, brought together over 100 leaders, activists, and faith representatives from across Toronto’s Muslim population. The central topic: the growing concern over Islamophobia, which many in attendance called the most urgent national issue facing Canada today.
“Islamophobia is not just a Muslim issue — it’s a Canadian issue,” the mayor said during her opening remarks. “Wearing the hijab today is a symbol of respect and unity, but real change goes beyond symbolism. We need policies, education, and accountability.”
Leaders from various mosques and community organizations shared stories of increased hate crimes, discrimination in schools and workplaces, and online harassment. Several referenced recent national incidents — including verbal assaults on women wearing hijabs and vandalism of mosques — as signs of a disturbing trend.
“Muslims in Canada are being told, directly and indirectly, that they don’t belong,” said Dr. Saima Qureshi, a community organizer. “But we do belong. And we need our leaders to protect that belonging.”
The mayor pledged to support stronger hate crime enforcement, funding for anti-racism education, and more inclusive community programs. She also proposed launching a city-wide task force focused on combating Islamophobia and other forms of religious discrimination.
Critics online questioned the mayor’s choice to wear religious clothing, calling it a political stunt. But for many in the room, the gesture felt meaningful.
“She listened. She showed up. That’s a start,” said Abdul Malik, an imam from North York. “Now we’ll be watching what happens next.”
As the meeting closed, the mayor reaffirmed her commitment to working with Muslim communities year-round — not just during moments of public pressure.
“This city is stronger because of its diversity,” she said. “And I will always stand with those fighting to be seen, heard, and safe.”
