“I want to congratulate the Ottawa Muslim Women's Organization on its 25th anniversary. Fifty women started it after 9/11 to fight hate against Muslims and bring people of different faiths together. I want to thank Nazira Tareen for leading this work.”

“Mr. Speaker, I am thrilled to stand today to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Ottawa Muslim Women’s Organization, founded in the aftermath of 9/11. Fifty women in Ottawa came together to build bridges between communities of different faiths and to tackle fear and hate directed at the Muslim community. Today, the group’s membership has grown to include both women and men from many different faith backgrounds, who continue to work tirelessly for respect and understanding between communities. Their famous Festival of Friendship Dinner is an event that is a must-attend in Ottawa. I want to give special thanks to Auntie Nazira Tareen, who is the force behind the Ottawa Muslim Women’s Organization. It is so difficult to say no to Auntie Nazira, because she is out there building community every single day. I want to extend my heartiest congratulations on behalf of all of us to the Ottawa Muslim Women’s Organization on its 25th anniversary.”