discrimination

Forty-five percent of Americans would not want a Muslim president, according to a poll conducted by the Pew Research Center in August 2007. That compares to 25 percent who said they would be less likely to vote for a Mormon candidate and 11 percent who would be less likely to vote for a Jew.

Sound Vision interviewed Sipes about his former racism, what brought about his change and why he ultimately chose Islam. This is an edited version of that interview.

In the land of opportunity, a person is free to choose or not to choose wearing Hijab, practicing homosexuality and drinking, as well as to spout personal opinions about Muslim women and Hijab. That is the starting point of any discussion.

Today, America's Muslims are enjoying the fruits of the civil rights struggle and its impact on the country's immigration laws. Were it not for the sacrifices of African-Americans and their supporters, it is highly unlikely that discrimination based on color and ethnicity would have changed in America. 

Cases of Hijab discrimination against Muslim girls and women in Canada and the United States are not uncommon. However, there are measures sisters can take in both countries to fight against such intolerance.

The Muslim community must become more proactive in educating Quebec society about its beliefs and practices. It must also put aside differences for the common good of the community. It must be ready to defend its rights by using the appropriate channels readily available.

As Muslims we are taught from the instructions in the Quran and the life of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, not to judge one another based on surface things, for the only thing that distinguishes us is piety.