LETTER

Malala Yousafzai

 

Granting Malala Yousafzai with an honorary citizenship has re-emphasized that Canada continues to operate synonymously with the values of peace, tolerance and acceptance. My family and I were personal recipients of Canada's mercy, as we fled to Canada as refugees from religious persecution that plagued my country. Living in this country that offers equal opportunity for all - irrespective of race, gender, culture - it may be easy to take these values for granted.

An example is education. Malala spoke about the importance of equal education amongst genders. It is important for all Canadians to understand that in some parts of the world, these "rights" are non-existent. As an Ahmadi Muslim, I am extremely grateful to the country of Canada that has accepted my family and me with open arms, and hope that we continue to be world leaders in matters of tolerance and diversity.

Abdullah Ahmad
Hamilton, ON