The Media Accountability Project  

CJPME President Thomas Woodley was published in The Hill Times, countering Andrew Caddell’s unjust critique of Amira Elghawaby, Canada’s special representative on combatting Islamophobia.

In his letter, Woodley argues that Caddell’s attack is not a reflection of any shortcomings on Elghawaby’s part, but rather a reaction to her effectiveness in amplifying the voices of Canadian Muslims and defending their rights. He highlights Elghawaby’s vital role in confronting rising Islamophobia and standing up for the civil liberties of pro-Palestinian protesters—rights enshrined in Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Woodley strongly condemns Caddell’s misrepresentation of Elghawaby’s human rights advocacy, exposing Caddell’s accusation that she defends "radical Muslims" as rooted in his own deep-seated anti-Muslim bias.

Woodley also addresses the damaging conflation of anti-Zionism with antisemitism, emphasizing that Elghawaby’s principled stance against this conflation has made her a target for pro-Israel advocates. He finally adds that despite Caddell’s claim that Elghawaby has “lost the room,” her voice is resonating with the public now more than ever.

CJPME remains committed to defending the rights of marginalized communities and supporting those who challenge discrimination and injustice across Canada.

"The ”room” that Caddell accuses Elghawaby of having “lost” has been indifferent and discriminatory to Muslims and other racialized groups for far too long.  Far from losing it, Elghawaby has been a clear voice for reform and change, and to Caddell’s horror, the room is starting to listen."