EDITORIAL: Let’s shut the door on hatred

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At a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East and with anti-Semitism rampant in major cities, you’d think the federal government would be extra vigilant about who’s allowed into this country.

If their plan is to peddle hatred, it would be a good idea to stop them at the border and tell them they’re not wanted here.

Sadly, that didn’t happen with Assam Al-Hakeem, a Saudi Arabian-based Imam accused of fomenting anti-Jewish hatred.

As Toronto Sun columnist Brian Lilley has documented, Al-Hakeem broadcasts around the world to mostly English-speaking audiences. He sees Jews as enemies and conspirators plotting against Islam. His messages are not just anti-Semitic. They’re considered by some to be misogynistic and anti-gay.

In one video, Al-Hakeem describes how, when Islam comes to your country, you have two options — submit or pay a tax for not being Muslim. If you don’t accept either of those outcomes, then Islamists will fight you, he says.

He also preaches that Muslims should not take up the citizenship of Kafir countries. (Kafir is generally translated as an infidel or someone who’s a non-believer in Islam). Al-Hakeem names Canada as Kafir and says Muslims should not follow the laws of a Kafir country.

He’s already visited Calgary, Milton, Mississauga, London, Montreal and Vancouver. We don’t need irresponsible views in this country right now.

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Freedom of speech has its limits. Creating panic by yelling “fire” in a crowded theatre that’s not ablaze is an example. Right now, this country is a tinderbox. Bomb threats were sent to more than 100 Jewish institutions last week. Jewish schools have been shot up and businesses vandalized.

While a handful of noisy agitators have tried to disrupt our streets with pro-Palestinian demonstrations, thousands of other Canadian Muslims live peaceably beside their neighbours. They neither want nor need this kind of extremism. Many came here to get away from such repressive views.

The federal government has been quick to ban fundamentalist Christians with extreme views. It’s time for some soul-searching on the part of our politicians and Immigration department. They must weed out those who would spew hatred and make sure they get the message that they’re not welcome here.