Re: Speakers at Muslim Conference noted for disparaging gays and Jews, Oct. 12

Daniel Dale’s article has set off a series of controversies that have affected many people including myself. I would like to set the record straight. I was never interviewed by Mr. Dale for this article. Instead the reader was presented with selections from sermons and lectures that were taken out of context and that stretched over 30 years.

Left out was my public apology to anyone who felt threatened by remarks attributed to me. He also failed to mention that I have openly spoken against wanton, craven acts of violence toward homosexuals. As an African American with Caribbean and First Nation ancestry who grew up in the civil rights era, I have first-hand knowledge of the power of hate speech and violent threats. As a Muslim religious leader who believes in traditional marriage, I have always advocated my views peacefully and in accordance with Canada’s secular laws.

All my life I have worked to advance the rights of women, the disabled and young people. In 1990 I pioneered the first social service agency for Muslims in Toronto. Our doors were open to all religions and all people, gay or straight. I have never called Christians or Jews filthy but condemned the wrong acts of people of all religions, including Muslims.

Many commentators have said that, post 9/11, statements demonizing Muslims are instantly believable often without need for further investigation. The fallout from Mr. Dale’s article is proof of this reality. In our society there are divisions between the secular and the sacred but there are also many shades of grey. Religious leaders and those who have a strong commitment to spiritual ideals try to navigate through shades of grey every day. Muslims are no exception.

The challenge for any secular society is to have a healthy debate and examine where people agree, disagree and where the shades of grey exist. True understanding cannot occur by trying to convert “the other” to “our side.” We share the public space but not always opinions and ideas. We will disagree, but we must continue to live together in peace and harmony.

Abdullah Hakim Quick, Toronto