Canada Muslims say no problems over face veil ban during oath-taking

Toronto Sun

TORONTO, Dec 13: Some Muslim women will be hesitant to remove their niqab (face-veil) for a citizenship judge but others feel the new law requiring is in the best interest of Canadian security.   The face-veil worn by some Muslim women is not a requirement in Islam “I think this is something women would consider doing,” said Alia Hogben, executive director of the Canadian Council of Muslim Women. “In this case the niqab is being removed for safety and security reasons.” Muslim females are now required by law to remove their niqab or other face-coverings in front of a judge while taking an oath of Canadian citizenship. They can be refused Canadian citizenship if they do not remove the ‘sacred’ garment after two warnings by the judge. “Some women will be uncomfortable with this,” Hogben said. “It is not a big issue but both sides must be accommodating with each other.” Hogben said there are certain conditions that requires a person’s face to be seen. “I can understand it for safety or security concerns,” she said. “I think most of the women will go along with this.” Some Muslim women said the niqab can only be removed in front of their husband and immediate family inside their home. Raheel Raza, a womens’ activist and member of Forum for Learning, said its about time Ottawa ordered women to remove veils. “This is a very, very positive move because it is something that some women have been lobbying for,” Raza said on Monday. “This is part of a tribal custom that was brought to Canada.” She said the niqab should not be worn to vote or in public places. “We need to see the face of these people who are wearing the niqab,” Raza said. “A citizenship officer needs to take a close look at who these people are.” Sohail Raza, former president of the Muslim Canadian Congress, said he’s pleased that Ottawa has ordered the niqab off. “This is a fantastic move that has pleased many people,” Raza said. “It is an excellent move by the government.” Raza said the wearing of a “face-mask creates a security hazard and has led to a number of bank heists in Canada and overseas.” In response to the niqab issue, Ontario Citizenship and Immigration Minister Charles Sousa made a point of noting the province values the social, cultural and economic contributions made by immigrants. “This decision falls within the federal government’s jurisdiction,” Sousa said Monday. “That said, we always want to ensure changes don’t hinder our diversity, which we believe is one of Ontario’s biggest strengths. We are committed to creating a society where all newcomers and members of diverse communities feel welcomed and respected.”