I wonder if those of us who are not immigrants can get a copy of the newly released immigrants' study guide? Immigration minister Jason Kenney introduced it yesterday and explained the areas of discussion which were either beefed up or included for the first time.
The area of special interest to me was around women's rights. Apparently there is a strong emphasis on equality and the reminder that religious practices from other traditions which might treat women as second class citizens or as chattel will not be tolerated. There have been a number of disturbing incidents in recent years in which women have been threatened or murdered as a supposed matter of honour.
While the men who perpetrated these crimes were of other religious traditions, there have been a number of spokespersons from these religions who point out that violence toward women is a distortion of these traditions. Obviously a few lines in a study guide will not automatically change perceptions, but it is important that our government state clearly what we may take for granted.
I was really concerned a couple of years ago when there was talk in Ontario of recognizing Sharia law, the Muslim form of law. It appeared that in the name of diversity and tolerance we might sanction intolerance toward women of a particular religious background.
Thoughts?
I was concerned about that a couple of years ago as well. It seemed odd that there would even be a discussion on it. I think the message of equality for women does need to be repeated over and over.There can be no room left for doubt, not even a hair.
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