CJPME Published in Toronto Star Addressing Racist Backlash Over Arabic Song
On Nov. 29, 2024, CJPME Media Analyst Anthony Issa published a letter in The Toronto Star responding to an op-ed by Mark McQueen, a former advisor to Brian Mulroney’s PMO, titled “The Left Is Exposing Its Moral Inconsistencies.”
The op-ed uncritically parrotted the misinformed claim that the Arabic song أهذا سلام (“Is This Peace?”) by Japanese Kuwaiti YouTuber Maryam Shehab, should not have been included in a school ceremony. Critics falsely labeled it as a “Palestinian resistance” song, despite its lyrics promoting harmony and aligning well with the themes of Remembrance Day.
In his letter, Mr. Issa condemned the columnist’s statement as baseless and highlighted the anti-Arab racism underlying McQueen’s exaggerated attack on the song.
While we appreciate The Toronto Star for publishing CJPME’s response to this unjust backlash, we remain deeply concerned about media figures like McQueen. The manufactured backlash, fueled by conservative outrage and media sensationalism, culminated in the defacement of the school’s welcome sign with the words “Hamas High.” By framing “Is This Peace?” As controversial, the media perpetuates anti-Arab sentiments and escalate needless hostility. This form of rage-baiting must end before it causes even further harm.
CJPME is steadfast in its commitment to defending marginalized communities and standing against all forms of discrimination and injustice across Canada.
Re: “The left is exposing its moral inconsistencies”
"If the school had played an Arabic rendition of Baby Shark, would that, too, be deemed a “resistance song”? One could easily find Arabic songs about سلام (peace) accompanied by discussions on Gaza, given it’s a main news topic for many Arab-Canadians affected by the situation. This includes Arab students who attend Sir Robert Borden High School."
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