Why are imams who incite violence against Jews in mosque ceremonies not charged with hate speech?
Why are imams who incite violence against Jews in mosque ceremonies not charged with hate speech?
It is important not to generalize about every imam’s conduct. We are working in partnership with Muslim allies, including imams who deplore the spreading of hate through radical religious figures. In relation to those who unequivocally preach hatred against Jews, there is no legal impediment to charges. Sometimes, the failure to charge is a recognition of the high threshold that must be overcome and the protection of freedom of religion under s. 2(a) of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. But unfortunately, the failure to charge or prosecute may also reflect either a misunderstanding of the existing laws or an unwillingness to act in politically charged situations.