Canadian Muslim Forum Deeply Concerned by Islamophobic “Comments” from Montreal Mayoral Candidate

Montreal, October 16, 2025 — The Canadian Muslim Forum (CMF) expresses its deep concern and firm condemnation of the Islamophobic comments attributed to Mr. Thierry Daraize, a candidate for mayor in Montreal’s Sud-Ouest borough, as reported by The Rover .

The remarks, which include targeting Muslims as “bearded radicals” and labeling Canada’s Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia, Amira Elghawaby, as “dangerous,” are both offensive and unacceptable. They contribute to a climate of hostility that endangers Montrealers ,particularly Muslim women, and undermine the city’s core values of respect, inclusion, and equality.

The FMC-CMF notes with additional concern that these posts follow earlier comments by the same candidate making light of the suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza. Such repeated insensitivity reveals a troubling disregard for human dignity and empathy.

“Public figures, especially those seeking elected office, have a moral and civic duty to uphold respect, fairness, and truth,” affirmed the Canadian Muslim Forum. “Islamophobic rhetoric has no place in our society and must be unequivocally condemned.”
The Canadian Muslim Forum calls on:
Mr. Daraize to illuminate and to publicly retract his statements and issue a sincere apology;
Ensemble Montréal to take immediate action and clarify its position on Islamophobia within its ranks;
Municipal authorities to reinforce their commitment to combating hate speech and ensuring safe, inclusive communities for all residents.

Montreal is a city defined by its diversity and solidarity. The FM_CMF reaffirms its commitment to working with partners, civic leaders, and communities to strengthen mutual understanding, protect the dignity of all Montrealers, and stand firmly against hate and discrimination in all its forms.
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Photo source: The Rover