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One recommendation contained in the report is something we cannot support, however. It calls for investigating options “for the training and certification of imams in Canada.” In their explanation, the senators explain that some “foreign-trained imams have been spreading extremist religious ideology and messages that are not in keeping with Canadian values.” Doubtless this is true, but the conclusion that the state should thereby take it upon itself to certify imams is a red line which should not be crossed.

Surely readers of other faiths would not appreciate a government claiming the authority to decide which of their own religious officials would be allowed to serve their community.

Many commentators, including Canadian Muslims, have denounced this recommendation as discriminatory. They’re right. Surely readers of other faiths would not appreciate a government claiming the authority to decide which of their own religious officials would be allowed to serve their community. Indeed, the idea of a state-approved priest, rabbi, or minister would be unthinkable. To single out Muslims for such treatment, therefore, would be grossly unfair.

It is, second, an assault on religious freedom, one of the core principles of Canadian society, enshrined in the Charter of Rights. The state may not dictate what religion we practice, or how, or in what terms. Neither can it decree who may or may not conduct religious services or represent the faith.

Third, the proposal is too broad. It would cast all foreign-born or trained imams under suspicion. Islam is a global religion. Surely the senators did not mean to suggest that being an observant Muslim from another country is itself cause for alarm?