The ICC board of directors is pleased to announce that the next ICC annual general meeting (AGM) will be held on July 6 from 1 PM ET (10 AM PT). The meeting will be held on a videoconferencing platform.   

An online election will also be held for the 2 available seats in the ICC board of directors. We encourage all interested members to consult with Section 2 of Article 5 of the ICC by-laws for nomination eligibility, and if eligible, declare their nomination by sending an email to elections@iccongress.ca. The deadline for sending nomination emails is June 17, 2024, at 11:59 pm ET. The email must include and attach the following:  

• A confirmation by the nominee that he or she has nominated himself or herself, or that he or she has been nominated by others and has accepted such nomination, for election to the ICC board of directors;  
• A confirmation by the nominee that he/she meets the eligibility criteria, as set out in Section 2 of Article 5 of the ICC by-laws;  
• A government-issued ID; and  
• A synopsis of the nominee’s background/biographical sketch and the reasons they wish to serve as a director on the ICC board of directors (maximum 300 words in English. Farsi is optional. This information is to be provided in MS Word or pdf file format). A passport size photo of the nominee in digital format is also optional. Information and the photograph provided by the nominees will be posted on the ICC website.  

Please note that only ICC members who have joined/renewed their membership by June 25, 2024, at 11:59 pm ET will be entitled to attend the upcoming AGM and vote in the election. For any membership questions, you may contact secretary@iccongress.ca.  

• In the upcoming election, members will choose two new board members. The election will be held online, starting and ending prior to the AGM. Members will receive a link through email to participate in the election after June 25th. Election results will be announced in the AGM.  
• The proposed charter of ICC and modifications to article 15 of the by-laws will also be presented to the members to vote on the same ballot.  
• The ICC board of directors has selected an election committee, consisting of three ICC members, to oversee the election process. These individuals are Mr. Moslem Noori, Mr. Habib Ghaffari, and Mr. Ahmad Ehsandar. 

Further details such as instructions for attending the AGM, the link for online voting, and the AGM videoconferencing will be shared with the members in future communications. 

The ICC Charter and modification to Article 15 of the bylaws, approved by Board of Directors, proposed to AGM 2024 to be voted by members:

ICC Charter

Article 15

Statement in Support of Student Encampments for Palestine

As of late April, student encampments have sparked up in universities across Canada as part of the global movement in support of Palestine, heeding the call for divestment and echoing a longstanding tradition of student peace activism.  

This brave statement by Canadian students and academics, which has overwhelming support from the broader community, is a positive step towards reaching a just and sustainable peace in Palestine and West Asia. ICC is in full support of this global and grassroots movement and urges academic institutions to support these students in their calls for divestment, which is beneficial to the preservation of the dignity and interests of Iranian Canadians.  

The American Civil Liberties Union, says: 

Freedom of speech, of the press, of association, of assembly and petition — this set of guarantees, protected by the First Amendment, comprises what we refer to as freedom of expression. The U.S. Supreme Court has written that this freedom is “the matrix, the indispensable condition of nearly every other form of freedom”. Without it, other fundamental rights, like the right to vote, would wither and die. 

Freedom of speech should be guaranteed for all citizens—limiting it in universities, which exist for the purpose of creating and discovering knowledge, is especially unreasonable. The broad movement of student encampments is a protest against the continued investment of Canadian academic institutions in the Israeli state—despite the latter’s violation of international laws and Geneva Conventions. Challenging narratives, asking difficult questions, making people uncomfortable—that's the price of living in a democracy. These are not threatening behaviors, as confirmed by the judge who ruled against the injunction against the McGill encampment.  

As Pulitzer-Prize winning journalist Chris Hedges put: 

It exposes the abject failure by the ruling elites and their institutions to halt genocide, the crime of crimes. These students watch, like most of us, Israel’s live-streamed slaughter of the Palestinian people. But unlike most of us, they act. Their voices and protests are a potent counterpoint to the moral bankruptcy that surrounds them. 

Violation of international law while ignoring ICJ recommendations and UN Security Council resolutions enables and perpetuates the cycle of violence in the region. We once again urge universities to follow the lead of their academics and students, protect their right to free speech and free assembly, and pay attention to their voice, which calls for peace and freedom for all. 

It is deeply troubling in the time of the genocidal killing of tens of thousands of Palestinians, to witness the suppression of freedom of speech of students and academics, and the threats against political dissidents around the world. 

ICC is heartbroken to see various forms of state violence and takes a stance to condemn any form of intimidation, violence, imprisonment, or criminal prosecution that violates an individual's right to freedom of speech; such as the sentencing of Iranian rapper, Toomaj Salehi, to death; a sentence which we hope will never be executed.  

The ICC strongly believes in the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, ICC advocates for a grassroots-led approach in the fight against violations of human rights instead of foreign interventions in domestic politics in any country.  

ICC emphasizes that any form of sanctions against the Iranian people violates their human rights to pursue a healthy and prosperous life, and therefore we oppose the adoption of any such policies by the Canadian government.  

Closing submission by Iranian Canadian Congress

Stage 1 Hearings of Public Inquiry Into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions

Statement on Recent Escalation of Tensions in West Asia

Last week’s Israeli forces missile strikes targeting the Iranian Consulate, which also damaged the Canadian Embassy in Syria raised major concern within the Iranian Canadian community. Such breaches of united nations resolutions and violations of international law, which should have been condemned, led to Iran's retaliatory strike against Israeli military installations on April 13th.  

We implore the Canadian government to champion the enforcement of UN Resolutions regarding Palestine and actively promote peace, equity, and stability in the region. 

The following letter has been sent to the Commission Counsel of the Public Inquiry Into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions:

We are writing to express our concerns about certain comments made by Mr. Hamed Esmaeilion during the Public Hearing on March 27, 2024. 

We wish to clarify that our organization holds immense respect for Mr. Esmaeilion’s advocacy for the families affected by the Ukrainian Flight PS752 tragedy, as well as his pursuit of justice and accountability. Since the tragic incident in which the civilian airliner was shot down by the Islamic Republic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), our organization has consistently expressed solidarity with the victims' families. We have also advocated for the federal government to ensure full accountability for the Canadian citizens and all innocent lives lost, in accordance with international law and civil aviation conventions. However, we find the following remarks concerning. 

Mr. Esmaeilion stated: 

“A very small minority of Iranians in Canada are engaged directly or indirectly as either sympathizers or sometimes even overt operatives of the Islamic regime. It’s a small minority, however, leverages financial advantages that mostly originate from inside Iran and political backing advantages that -- political backing from the Islamic regime to create institutions disguised as community advocacy groups, media, social media, or even research institutes, but effectively seek to undermine the majority of the community that opposes the regime, as well as to meddle with the influence Canadians or influence Canadian government and non-government institutions in favour of the regime’s agenda.” 

This claim broadly categorizes diverse organizations and individuals within the Iranian Canadian community as having illicit ties to the Islamic regime, without providing concrete evidence. It is critical to question such allegations, especially when considering Canada’s legal and security frameworks that would address any such 'overt operatives'. 

Further, Mr. Esmaeilion commented: 

“Just recently, a member of the Iranian community in Canada sought to run for as a member of the federal Parliament. The intensity of the smear campaign against him went far beyond the normal fervor of political competition in Canada. We believe that this is indicative of a much  more sophisticated and multi-layered attempt by the regime and its operatives to hinder the participation of Iranians opposed to the regime in the Canadian democratic institutions.” 

In this instance, Mr. Esmaeilion seems to refer to a recent Conservative Party nomination race in Richmond Hill, for which he has not provided any evidence of foreign interference yet. According to publicly available information and reports, the campaign against the mentioned member of the Iranian Canadian community appears to have been a domestic initiative by Canadians, including those of Iranian heritage, rather than a result of foreign meddling. Notably, a Progressive Conservative Member of Provincial Parliament in Ontario emerged as the most vocal opponent of the individual who was referred to by Mr. Esmaeilion. It is essential to recognize that Canadians of all ethnic backgrounds have the right to freely participate in civic activities, supporting or opposing political candidates as they see fit.  

In a democratic society such as Canada, members of political parties should not be intimidated by potential retaliatory accusations of foreign interference by their opponents. We hope that the commission will require Mr. Esmaeilion to provide evidence and will thoroughly investigate the merit of the claim of foreign interference in the internal procedures of the Conservative Party of Canada, through all available channels. 

In addition, Mr. Esmaeilion stated: 

“We have organizations here that they don’t have any relations with the civic organizations in the community, with the cultural organizations in the community like Tirgan civic association, civic organizations like us or even political members of the community like our Parliament member, Mr. Ali Ehsassi, but they are everywhere, and they get funded by -- unfortunately, by our governments.” 

This statement suggests a biased view that legitimate Canadian entities are only those affiliated with certain cultural groups or political figures. By not mentioning other Iranian Canadian members of parliament or the many cultural organizations of the Iranian Canadian community, it fails to recognize the diversity within the Iranian Canadian community and undermines the legitimacy of various organizations that operate independently of the mentioned affiliations. Furthermore, the commission may take note that the Canadian government’s funding of organizations that “don’t have any relations with the civic organizations in the community”, does not, per se, indicate foreign interference. 

We trust that the commission will exercise utmost caution in evaluating these claims and will mandate that all witnesses substantiate their statements with evidence and factual data. 

Our apprehension stems from the potential for such claims to perpetuate long-standing internal divisions and conflicts within various diaspora and ethnic communities, including the Iranian Canadian community. Historically, certain factions within the Iranian Canadian community have engaged in discrediting individuals of Iranian origin based on their political beliefs and opinions, often leveling unfounded accusations of association with the Islamic Republic. This has particularly affected young Iranian Canadian activists including second-generation Iranian Canadians and civil society organizations with progressive and left-leaning stances on foreign policy, subjecting them to baseless defamation and smear campaigns, typically without any evidence.  

The primary source of discord in our community stems from differing views on Canada’s foreign policy toward Iran. Iranian Canadian activists who oppose military action or sanctions, citing their detrimental impact on the Iranian populace and regional peace and stability, are frequently discredited by hardline political factions. These factions prioritize regime change in Tehran over all else, disregarding both Canada’s interests and the potential harm that increased instability may inflict on the people of Iran and the broader region. We are concerned about the potential misuse of the commission’s public hearings by some parties, by framing and exclusion, to limit the diversity of expressed opinion by Iranian Canadians. 

We oppose those assertions, by Mr. Esmaeilion, that conflate foreign influence with the legitimate and varied perspectives of Canadians of Iranian descent. We unequivocally support his appeal for the federal government to actively pursue and investigate corrupt Iranian officials who seek refuge in Canada, along with their illicit financial activities. Our organization has been at the forefront, leading the Iranian Canadian community in advocating against the laundering of corruption proceeds within our borders. This advocacy underscores our commitment to uphold justice and integrity, not just within the Iranian Canadian community, but also in safeguarding Canada’s financial system against such abuses. 

In closing, we express our deep concern regarding the potential misapplication of the Commission’s esteemed platform to propagate personal biases and unsubstantiated claims. Such actions could detract from the Commission’s fundamental objective of conducting a fair and fact-based inquiry. We place our trust in the Commission’s commitment to thorough, objective, and unbiased examination of all testimonies and evidence. It is our hope that the Commission will handle these sensitive matters with the high level of diligence and impartiality they demand, ensuring that the inquiry remains a credible and respected instrument of justice and truth-seeking. 

We are pleased to inform you that the ICC has been granted standing at the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes in Canada. This is a crucial opportunity for us to actively participate in ensuring the transparency and fairness of our electoral system.

As an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and interests of Iranian Canadians, this is a pivotal moment for us to contribute to safeguarding the democratic process in our country. However, we cannot do this alone.

In order to effectively represent our community's concerns and interests at the inquiry, we need your support. We are reaching out to our members, donors, and supporters to ask for your assistance in this matter.

Here's how you can help:

1. Financial Contributions: Your donations will enable us to cover legal expenses, research costs, and other necessary expenditures related to our participation in the inquiry. No amount is too small, and every contribution makes a difference.

2. Spread the Word: Please share this news with your networks and encourage others to support our efforts. The more people we have standing with us, the stronger our voice will be.

3. Volunteer: If you have expertise or skills that could be valuable to our efforts, we welcome your volunteer assistance. Whether it's legal expertise, research skills, or outreach support, your contribution can have a meaningful impact.

4. Stay Informed and Engaged: Keep up to date with developments related to the inquiry and participate in relevant advocacy efforts. Your engagement is vital in ensuring that our community's concerns are heard and addressed.

We are committed to representing the interests of Iranian Canadians and advocating for a fair and transparent electoral process. With your support, we can make a meaningful impact at this critical juncture.

If you would like to contribute or get involved, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@iccongress.ca .

Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the Iranian Canadian community.

Iranian Canadian Congress expresses disappointment in Canada’s decision to participate in the US-led military operation in the Red Sea. Given the exceptionally heightened tensions, these military interventions pose a significant risk of escalating West Asia into a full-scale war, which would be catastrophic for all parties involved, particularly the civilian population throughout the region.  

For over three months, Canadians have been fervently urging their elected representatives to advocate for an immediate and lasting ceasefire to bring an end to the ongoing genocide in Gaza. It is imperative for the Canadian government to demand a ceasefire alongside South Africa in the International Court of Justice against the genocide in Gaza and call for the immediate removal of the blockade affecting the fundamental livelihood of the Gaza population, including access to clean water, food and medication.   

We urge Canada to assume a constructive role in the region, fostering implementation of UN Resolutions, peace, justice and stability rather than contributing to war and destruction. Canadians seek a sustainable ceasefire between Israel and Palestine, fearing the potential expansion of the conflict into neighboring countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq and Iran.  

Participating in military actions that jeopardize Canadian lives and perpetuate the loss of innocent men, women, and children in West Asia offers no benefit to Canadians and is instead a stain on Canada’s global reputation. It is crucial for Canada to prioritize diplomatic solutions and actively work towards a peaceful resolution in the region.  

Le Congrès Iranien du Canada exprime sa déception face à la décision du Canada de participer à l’opération militaire menée par les États-Unis en mer Rouge. Compte tenu des tensions exceptionnellement accrues, ces interventions militaires présentent un risque de déclancher une guerre à grande échelle en Asie de l'ouest, ce qui serait catastrophique pour toutes les parties impliquées, en particulier pour la population civile.

Depuis plus de trois mois, les Canadiens exhortent avec ferveur leurs représentants élus à plaider en faveur d'un cessez-le-feu immédiat et durable afin de mettre fin au génocide en cours à Gaza. Il est impératif que le gouvernement canadien exige un cessez-le-feu aux côtés de l'Afrique du Sud devant la Cour internationale de Justice contre le génocide à Gaza et appelle à la levée immédiate du blocus qui prive la population de Gaza des nécessités essentielles, notamment l'accès à l'eau potable, à la nourriture et aux médicaments.

Nous exhortons le Canada à jouer un rôle constructif dans la région, en favorisant la mise en œuvre des résolutions de l'ONU, la paix, la justice et la stabilité plutôt que de contribuer à la guerre et à la destruction. Les Canadiens recherchent un cessez-le-feu durable entre Israël et la Palestine, craignant l'expansion potentielle du conflit dans les pays voisins comme le Liban, la Syrie, le Yémen, l'Irak et l'Iran.

Participer à des actions militaires qui mettent en danger la vie des Canadiens et perpétuent la perte de vie d’hommes, de femmes et d’enfants innocents en Asie de l'Ouest n’offre aucun avantage aux Canadiens et constitue plutôt une tache sur la réputation mondiale du Canada. Il est crucial que le Canada accorde la priorité aux solutions diplomatiques et œuvre activement à une résolution pacifique des tensions dans la région.

Iranian Canadian Congress expresses disappointment in Canada’s decision to participate in the US-led military operation in the Red Sea. Given the exceptionally heightened tensions, these military interventions pose a significant risk of escalating West Asia into a full-scale war, which would be catastrophic for all parties involved, particularly the civilian population throughout the region.  

For over three months, Canadians have been fervently urging their elected representatives to advocate for an immediate and lasting ceasefire to bring an end to the ongoing genocide in Gaza. It is imperative for the Canadian government to demand a ceasefire alongside South Africa in the International Court of Justice against the genocide in Gaza and call for the immediate removal of the blockade affecting the fundamental livelihood of the Gaza population, including access to clean water, food and medication.   

We urge Canada to assume a constructive role in the region, fostering implementation of UN Resolutions, peace, justice and stability rather than contributing to war and destruction. Canadians seek a sustainable ceasefire between Israel and Palestine, fearing the potential expansion of the conflict into neighboring countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq and Iran.  

Participating in military actions that jeopardize Canadian lives and perpetuate the loss of innocent men, women, and children in West Asia offers no benefit to Canadians and is instead a stain on Canada’s global reputation. It is crucial for Canada to prioritize diplomatic solutions and actively work towards a peaceful resolution in the region.  

Le Congrès Iranien du Canada exprime sa déception face à la décision du Canada de participer à l’opération militaire menée par les États-Unis en mer Rouge. Compte tenu des tensions exceptionnellement accrues, ces interventions militaires présentent un risque de déclancher une guerre à grande échelle en Asie de l'ouest, ce qui serait catastrophique pour toutes les parties impliquées, en particulier pour la population civile.

Depuis plus de trois mois, les Canadiens exhortent avec ferveur leurs représentants élus à plaider en faveur d'un cessez-le-feu immédiat et durable afin de mettre fin au génocide en cours à Gaza. Il est impératif que le gouvernement canadien exige un cessez-le-feu aux côtés de l'Afrique du Sud devant la Cour internationale de Justice contre le génocide à Gaza et appelle à la levée immédiate du blocus qui prive la population de Gaza des nécessités essentielles, notamment l'accès à l'eau potable, à la nourriture et aux médicaments.

Nous exhortons le Canada à jouer un rôle constructif dans la région, en favorisant la mise en œuvre des résolutions de l'ONU, la paix, la justice et la stabilité plutôt que de contribuer à la guerre et à la destruction. Les Canadiens recherchent un cessez-le-feu durable entre Israël et la Palestine, craignant l'expansion potentielle du conflit dans les pays voisins comme le Liban, la Syrie, le Yémen, l'Irak et l'Iran.

Participer à des actions militaires qui mettent en danger la vie des Canadiens et perpétuent la perte de vie d’hommes, de femmes et d’enfants innocents en Asie de l'Ouest n’offre aucun avantage aux Canadiens et constitue plutôt une tache sur la réputation mondiale du Canada. Il est crucial que le Canada accorde la priorité aux solutions diplomatiques et œuvre activement à une résolution pacifique des tensions dans la région.

In January 2022, the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs used a fake term for the Persian Gulf during a series of tweets.
The Iranian Canadian Congress protested this issue in various ways and shared this protest with the members of the Canadian Parliament.
Last week, Mr. Francis Scarpaleggia,MP, sent the official response of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Canada to Mr. Mohammad Vahidi Rad, a member of the Board of Directors of the Iranian Congress of Canada.
In an official letter, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Ms. Melanie Jolly, while acknowledging the permanent name of the Persian Gulf in her official letter, in a way explained the tweet of the Foreign Affairs  to a physical border and emphasized that the federal government also uses and will use the term Persian Gulf in their communications regarding the body of water. 

در ماه ژانویه 2022 وزارت امور خارجه کانادا در طی یک رشته توئیت از عبارت جعلی برای خلیج فارس استفاده کرد.
کنگره ایرانیان کانادا از طرق مختلف به این موضوع اعتراض کرد و این اعتراض را با نمایندگان پارلمان کانادا نیز در میان گذاشت.
هفته گذشته، آقای فرانسیس اسکارپالجیا، یکی از نمایندگان کهنه کار پارلمان کانادا، پاسخ رسمی وزارت خارجه کانادا به اعتراض آقای محمد وحیدی راد، عضو هیات مدیره کنگره ایرانیان کانادا را به ایشان ارسال کرد.
وزیر امور خارجه کانادا خانم ملانی جولی طی یک نامه رسمی ضمن اذعان به نام همیشگی خلیج فارس در نامه رسمی خود، به نوعی عمل سال گذشته وزارت امور خارجه را به مرز سیاسی تشبیه کرد و تاکید داشت که دولت فدرال نیز از عبارت خلیج فارس استفاده می‌کند و خواهد کرد.

Foreign media outlets are widely publicizing articles in Persian regarding cases of suicide, without following proper guidelines for responsible reporting. Irresponsible media coverage of suicide can potentially lead to what is known as "suicide contagion" or the "Werther effect," where the reporting of suicide incidents can increase the risk of copycat suicides.  

رسانه های فارسی زبان خارج از ایران اخبار خودکشی را به طور گسترده وبدون رعایت پروتکل های خبری منتشر می کنند. انتشار غیرمسؤلانه اخبار خودکشی دررسانه های پرمخاطب، عواقب خطرناکی برای جامعه به همراه دارد که یکی از آنها به عنوان «خودکشی تقلیدی» یا «اثر ورتر» شناخته می شود. پرداختن به جزییات خودکشی وبزرگنمایی وقهرمان سازی، موضوعاتی است که ممکن است افراد مستعد را ترغیب به خودکشی کند. در مواردی دیده شده که افراد از نحوه خودکشی افراد مشهور کپی برداری کرده اند.   

Les médias étrangers diffusent largement des articles en persan concernant des cas de suicide, sans suivre les directives appropriées pour un reportage responsable. Une couverture médiatique irresponsable du suicide peut potentiellement conduire à ce que l'on appelle le "contagion suicidaire" ou l'"effet Werther", où le reportage sur les incidents de suicide peut augmenter le risque de suicides imitatifs. 

رسانه های فارسی زبان خارج از ایران اخبار خودکشی را به طور گسترده وبدون رعایت پروتکل های خبری منتشر می کنند. انتشار غیرمسؤلانه اخبار خودکشی دررسانه های پرمخاطب، عواقب خطرناکی برای جامعه به همراه دارد که یکی از آنها به عنوان «خودکشی تقلیدی» یا «اثر ورتر» شناخته می شود. پرداختن به جزییات خودکشی وبزرگنمایی وقهرمان سازی، موضوعاتی است که ممکن است افراد مستعد را ترغیب به خودکشی کند. در مواردی دیده شده که افراد از نحوه خودکشی افراد مشهور کپی برداری کرده اند.  

 تلفن مراکز کمک رسانی به خانواده ها و افرادی که دچار مشکلات سلامت روان هستند وکسانی که افکار خودکشی دارند ، در کانادا و کبک در زیر آمده است. این مراکز در تمام ساعات شبانه روز آماده کمک رسانی در مواقع بحران های روانی هستند:   

Suicide help line across Canada: 1-833-456-4566 ----Text Message: 45645  

Ligne d’aide au Suicide au Québec : 1-866-appelle ----- Message Text : 535353  

English: 

Foreign media outlets are widely publicizing articles in Persian regarding cases of suicide, without following proper guidelines for responsible reporting. Irresponsible media coverage of suicide can potentially lead to what is known as "suicide contagion" or the "Werther effect," where the reporting of suicide incidents can increase the risk of copycat suicides.   

Public health guidelines, such as those recommended by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), stress the importance of responsible media reporting to prevent suicide contagion. These guidelines typically include:   

1. **Avoiding sensationalism: ** Media should avoid presenting suicide in a sensational or glorified manner. Graphic details and sensationalized headlines should be avoided.
2. **Minimizing explicit details: ** Media should refrain from providing explicit details about the method or location of the suicide, as this can be triggering for vulnerable individuals.
3. **Avoiding photographs and images: ** Avoid using images or photographs related to the suicide, as visual representations can have a strong impact.
4. **Promoting help-seeking: ** Media should include information about available mental health resources, helplines, and crisis services for those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts.
5. **Reporting responsibly: ** Reporters should use accurate language and avoid making sweeping generalizations or using stigmatizing language when discussing suicide.
6. **Highlighting prevention and recovery: ** Stories about suicide should also include stories of hope, recovery, and prevention efforts.

Contact the Media Outlets: If you come across foreign media outlets that are not following responsible reporting guidelines, consider reaching out to them directly. Express your concerns and provide them with the guidelines recommended by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC)   

Hotlines for psychological distress support in Canada and Quebec, aimed at those who may require it for themselves or a family member, in a social context exacerbated by social media and other forms of media. 

Suicide help line across Canada: 1-833-456-4566 ----Text Message: 45645 

Ligne d’aide au Suicide au Québec : 1-866-appelle ----- Message Text : 535353  

French 

Les médias étrangers diffusent largement des articles en persan concernant des cas de suicide, sans suivre les directives appropriées pour un reportage responsable. Une couverture médiatique irresponsable du suicide peut potentiellement conduire à ce que l'on appelle le "contagion suicidaire" ou l'"effet Werther", où le reportage sur les incidents de suicide peut augmenter le risque de suicides imitatifs.   

Les directives de santé publique, telles que celles recommandées par des organisations telles que l'Organisation mondiale de la santé (OMS) et les Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), soulignent l'importance d'un reportage médiatique responsable pour prévenir la contagion suicidaire. Ces directives comprennent généralement :   

1. **Éviter le sensationnalisme : ** Les médias devraient éviter de présenter le suicide de manière sensationnelle ou glorifiée. Les détails graphiques et les gros titres sensationnels doivent être évités.
2. **Minimiser les détails explicites : ** Les médias devraient s'abstenir de fournir des détails explicites sur la méthode ou le lieu du suicide, car cela peut être déclencheur pour les personnes vulnérables.
3. **Éviter les photographies et les images : ** Évitez d'utiliser des images ou des photographies liées au suicide, car les représentations visuelles peuvent avoir un fort impact.
4. **Promouvoir la recherche d'aide : ** Les médias devraient inclure des informations sur les ressources en santé mentale disponibles, les lignes d'assistance et les services de crise pour les gens vulnérables qui pourraient leurs aider à lutter contre des pensées suicidaires.
5. **Reporter de manière responsable : ** Les journalistes devraient utiliser un langage précis et éviter de faire des généralisations hâtives ou d'utiliser un langage stigmatisant lorsqu'ils parlent du suicide.
6. **Mettre en avant la prévention et la guérison : ** Les récits sur le suicide devraient également inclure des histoires d'espoir, de guérison et d'efforts de prévention.

Contactez les médias : Si vous tombez sur des médias étrangers qui ne respectent pas les directives de reportage responsable, envisagez de les contacter directement. Exprimez vos préoccupations et fournissez-leur les directives recommandées par des organisations telles que l'Organisation mondiale de la santé (OMS) et les Centers for Disease Control (CDC).   

Lignes d'écoute pour le soutien en cas de détresse psychologique au Canada et au Québec, destinées à ceux qui pourraient en avoir besoin pour eux-mêmes ou pour un proche, dans un contexte social où l'influence des médias sociaux et autres médias est particulièrement préoccupante :   

Ligne d’aide au Suicide au Québec : 1-866-appelle ----- Message Text : 535353  

Suicide help line across Canada: 1-833-456-4566 ----Text Message: 45645 

Since 2008, the Iranian Canadian Congress (ICC) has worked tirelessly with the interests of the Iranian Canadian community in mind, and with the core values of peace, solidarity, freedom, justice and transparency. It is unfortunate that the ICC and its board members have frequently been the target of cyberbullying by individuals who oppose our core values, who choose aggression over peace, bullying over freedom of speech, and trolling while cowardly hiding behind their -sometimes unknown- online identity. 

The ICC board members, and the members of the public alike, have been targeted by such bullies on many social media platforms, who aim to create a toxic atmosphere or hoping to interfere with or to discourage the board members from their peaceful activities. 

The ICC board members are and have been aware and prepared to face the trolls and the toxic environment that they wish to create, finding encouragement instead of being discouraged, and determination instead of distraction. After all, the harder the trolls try, the more we have reason to believe in the positive impacts of ICC’s overall strategies, giving us more reason and determination to continue working toward our peaceful ambitions. 

Despite the above, we condemn the acts of cyberbullying, and encourage our members and the public to stay sensitive about such activities. Cyberbullying, especially when it involves physical threats, is a criminal activity and the ICC will assess such activities going forward and may choose to report them to the respective social media platform, or in more serious cases to the police. For further information about cyberbullying please consult the following resources. 

https://www.unicef.org/end-violence/how-to-stop-cyberbullying 

https://ssd.eff.org/module/your-security-plan 

https://womensmediacenter.com/speech-project/tools-resources 

https://www.datasociety.net/pubs/oh/Online_Harassment_2016.pdf 

http://cdeacf.ca/boite-outils-cyberintimidation 

https://onlineharassmentfieldmanual.pen.org/protecting-information-from-doxing/ 

Iranian Canadian Congress is proud to join with a broad and representative group of pan-Canadian organizations that is raising our voices together for an immediate ceasefire to the escalating violence in Israel-Palestine and for the urgent restoration of humanitarian aid to Gaza and access to the basic necessities of life. We are among the leading pan-Canadian labour, faith, community, civil society, peace and justice organizations in Canada and Quebec. 

You can read our joint statement here.

Le texte en français suit.

Ceasefire now, end the siege, for a just and lasting peace

Issued on Saturday, October 21, 2023

People in Canada are watching in horror as the violence in Israel-Palestine has escalated towards an all-out war.

On Tuesday, the bombing of the Anglican Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City killed hundreds of people, most of them children. Over 5,000 people had been sheltering inside. This is an atrocity.

Since October 7, thousands have been killed following Hamas’ attack and the Israeli government’s response.

We unequivocally condemn the targeting of innocent Palestinian and Israeli civilians.

As representatives of leading pan-Canadian labour, faith, Arab, Jewish, and civil society organizations, we are calling on the Government of Canada to take these steps: 

• Call for an immediate ceasefire in Israel-Palestine

• Call for an end to the blockade of Gaza and for the restoration of humanitarian aid and access to the basic necessities of life

We endorse the Canadian government’s call for humanitarian aid to Gaza and the safe return of hostages. These demands cannot be meaningfully addressed without an immediate ceasefire and while Israel's blockade of Gaza continues.

Gaza is facing a “complete siege” as food, water, electricity, and fuel have been cut off. Gaza’s last functioning seawater desalination plant shut down on Sunday after running out of fuel. Water and sanitation services have collapsed in the wake of widespread bombing.

UN shelters have also run out of water and hospital workers are warning that thousands more civilians could die if access to water, fuel, and medicine is not restored.

The already dire humanitarian crisis is rapidly deteriorating.

The Israeli government’s order to a million Gazans to evacuate to the south–an impossible feat in 24 hours–suggests that a ground war and intensifying bombing are imminent.

Our most urgent task is preventing the further loss of life and an even greater humanitarian disaster than what we have already witnessed in Gaza. An all-out war would bring catastrophe to the entire region.

As hostilities escalate, they are fuelling a rise of Anti-Arab and anti-Palestinian racism, Islamophobia, and antisemitism in Canada–which we also unequivocally condemn.

Beyond these immediate steps, the world must support efforts for a just and lasting peace in Israel-Palestine and address the root cause of the violence: Israel’s decades-long occupation of Palestinian territory.

Palestinians, Israelis, and all people in the region deserve to live in peace and security and with justice for all.

 Signatories: 

The third annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada is on Saturday, Sept. 30.

روز حقیقت یابی و آشتی ملی با بومیان کانادا گرامی باد

21st of September, Peace to the world on International Peace Day.

۲۱ سپتامبر، روز جهانی صلح گرامی باد

Iranian Canadian Congress' board of directors has sent an open letter to Mr. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada regarding the presence of Stephen Harper at MEK Convention in Paris. 

A copy of this letter was sent to all leaders of political parties in Ottawa including Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau. 

The full text of the letter is here:

Subject: Concerns Regarding Stephen Harper's Presence at MEK Convention in Paris

To: The Honorable Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada

Dear Mr. Poilievre,

We, the board of directors of the Iranian Canadian Congress, wish to raise our concerns and seek clarification regarding the presence and speeches of several members of the Conservative Caucus, including former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, at a convention organized by the Mujahedin-e Khalq (MEK) in Paris.

 The Iranian Canadian community, along with concerned members, finds it troubling that Conservative Caucus members are associated with the MEK. It is worth noting that the MEK was listed as a terrorist organization in Canada until 2012. The group has a notorious reputation among Iranians due to its involvement in terrorism, violent acts during and after the Iran-Iraq war, and the targeting of innocent Iranian civilians. 

The presence of multiple Conservative party members at MEK events raises questions about the party's stance on this matter. Their participation could be interpreted as an endorsement of an organization with a highly controversial history, which has caused immense suffering for countless Iranians. The community deserves to know whether the attendance of present and former Conservative Caucus members at the MEK meetings represents an official party position.

 Moreover, it is crucial to demonstrate a commitment to accountability and respect for our citizens. Just like other communities in Canada, the Iranian Canadian community seeks reassurance that any association of the party with organizations or individuals aligns with the values of peace and democracy.

 Therefore, we kindly request that the Conservative Party of Canada clarify its stance regarding the MEK and explain the reasons behind their participation in these controversial political conventions. 

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to receiving your response.

Mr. Eric Claus,  CEO of Mountain Equipment Company, 

On behalf of The Iranian Canadian Congress, we are reaching out to you as our members and our community are shocked and outraged by reports in the media about how Mr. Amir Ghassemzadehnaghedhi and his wife Mrs. Andrea Sotomayor were treated in one of Mountain Equipment Company’s stores.  

Furthermore, we are disappointed with the way the Mountain Equipment Company decided to handle the incident. As Canadians, we are proud of our diverse and multicultural nation. As a country that aspires to anti-hate and antiracist values, we must hold our businesses accountable to respect the humanity of all people.  The reported punitive measures taken do not address the root cause of the problem, and we hope that appropriate actions are taken to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents. 

Our mandate includes supporting the wellbeing and defending the interests of all Iranian Canadians. Respectfully we would like to know what will come of this, how it is handled, and how we will be represented. Please consider the consequences of such lack of sensitivity and care.   

Sincerely, 

Iran Canadian Congress  

The Iranian Canadian Congress have identified three main issues for the Iranian Canadian community in Toronto and we have prepared three questions below in that regard. We have asked 6 candidates who are ahead in the polls to answer to these questions and we are relaying their answers to the community to help them decide better in the coming election:  

1. What specific plans do you have to address the housing crisis in Toronto, particularly in terms of affordable housing options for low-income individuals and families? 

Mark Saunders:  '' Every family in Toronto deserves to have a safe and affordable home. City Council's plan to create any kind of housing has been a failure, especially for low-income families. The waiting list for rent-geared-to-income housing is in the tens of thousands, however this segment of the housing market has not been a priority for either City Council or my opponents.  

To create more deeply affordable / RGI and supportive housing, I will embrace and expand the highly successful Toronto Community Housing model where the City provides land free-of-charge to builders of condo and market rental projects (also needed as part of the overall housing mix) in return for including affordable and supportive units, and replacing crumbling rent-geared-to-income units and adding new ones. As part of this model, the city will also receive a share of the condo sales, which can in turn be used to provide additional services that these families need. ''

     2. Toronto's public transit system has faced numerous challenges, including overcrowding and delays. What steps will you take to improve and expand public transit infrastructure in the city to ensure efficient, reliable, and accessible transportation for all residents? 

Mark Saunders:  '' I am committed to improving the expanding transit infrastructure in Toronto, starting with accelerating an extension of the TTC’s Line 4. 

North York and Scarborough residents have been frustrated for decades by the politicians at City Hall who have constantly started, stopped, and restarted major transit projects, contributing to huge delays and ballooning costs. Even Olivia Chow called the Scarborough subway extension a “waste” in 2014 and promised to cancel it, which would have left residents waiting another decade or more for the Scarborough RT replacement. The next year, she flipped and said she was supporting the subway - because her own NDP party was supporting it in the middle of a federal election. 

To expand the access and convenience of transit options, I will: 

Work with provincial and federal levels of government to accelerate the time to completion for the Scarborough subway extension of Line 4 to Sheppard and McCowan, and in doing so, finally give Scarborough and North York residents the transit options they deserve; 

Work with key transit and infrastructure partners to speed up recently announced intentions to study an extension of Line 4 to the west from Sheppard-Yonge Station to Sheppard West Station. North York residents can’t wait another decade for a study; they need a more sensible and convenient option of moving across the city right now; and 

Work with the provincial government to undertake a planning assessment for extending the Ontario Line northbound to Sheppard Avenue East, which will give North York residents another north-south option and further relieve congestion on Line 1. 

I have also pledged to offer free TTC to seniors 65+ every Monday from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. to make it more affordable for them to get to grocery stores and medical appointments and to help reduce social isolation. I will also ask the province to come to the table to provide funding to further expand this initiative. 

To see my complete TTC transit safety plan, please see Mark Saunders Launches Comprehensive TTC Safety Plan to Protect Commuters and Workers | Mark Saunders for Toronto. ''

    3. The dismissal of a police constable from the Toronto Police Department has brought attention the issues of workplace harassment and the treatment of women in law enforcement. What steps will you take to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment within the Toronto Police Department, to the issue of harassment, and to gender equality and diversity in law enforcement? 

Mark Saunders: '' As Chief, I prioritized a safe and inclusive workplace for all members of the Toronto Police Service and introduced training and measures to ensure TPS employees were treated with dignity and respect regardless of their gender. This work should and will continue when I am Mayor. ''

President of Iranian Canadian Congress, Dr. Saïdeh Khadir, has sent a letter to Premier of BC David Eby to call for urgent Support for Justice and Accountability in the Case of Amir Sedghi's Tragic Death:

 Dear Premier Eby, 

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to you today regarding a grieving family and to seek your compassionate support in pursuing justice and accountability for a profound injustice that has befallen them. https://intheirname.ca/our-stories/amir/ 

Amir Sedghi, a talented and promising young man with a bright future, tragically lost his life in a plane crash while at work. As a dedicated data analyst, he was capturing crucial aerial images of ongoing underground wildfires using a unique technological approach. Regrettably, the plane he was operating encountered technical difficulties that could have been prevented, leading to the fatal accident. 

Amidst the sorrow and grief that the Sedghi family has endured, they have discovered that their pursuit of justice and compensation is hindered by an archaic death legislation that has remained unaltered since its inception in 1846. This outdated law fails to acknowledge the immeasurable value of a young life lost, denying the family the right to seek restitution or to hold the parties responsible for their negligence. 

The Sedghi family's profound sense of injustice is shared by many within our community who believe that the law should adapt to the evolving needs of our society. Considering this tragic incident and the ongoing impact it continues to have on the family, I implore you to support their plea for justice by championing the reform of British Columbia's death law. 

We must ensure that no other family suffers the same indignity and disregard for their loved ones' lives. By modernizing the legislation surrounding death compensation, we can provide a path for accountability, and support this grieving family in their pursuit of justice. The Sedghi family's case is a poignant reminder that our laws must reflect the values of fairness, compassion, and empathy that define our great nation. 

I kindly request that you use your esteemed position and influence to address this pressing matter promptly. Your support in advocating for the reform of BC's death law will not only provide solace to the Sedghi family but also demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of all British Columbians. 

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I remain hopeful that you will take the necessary steps to address the injustice faced by the Sedghi family and work towards creating a more just and equitable society. 

Yours sincerely, 

Dr. Saïdeh Khadir, M.D. 

President, 

Iranian Canadian Congress   

CC:

Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources Canada

Honourable Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness of British Columbia 

The Iranian Canadian Congress strongly condemns the harassment of women in the workplace and call on the relevant authorities to take immediate action to prevent such reprehensible acts. Harassment is a violation of women's fundamental rights, affecting both their mental and physical health, and it is our duty to stand together to end it. 

In the current context, we are dismayed to learn of reported dismissal of a police officer of Iranian origin who claims to have been the victim of harassment on several occasions in the course of her work. This case and the case of other officers who had similar complaints in 2020, highlight the urgent need to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for all women, regardless of background or profession. 

It is imperative that the authorities take preventive measures to educate and sensitize employees, employers and colleagues on the devastating consequences of harassment. Strict policies must be put in place, accompanied by regular and mandatory training in respecting fundamental rights and the fight against harassment. 

 In addition, we urge the authorities to pay special attention to the situation of women who have been victims of harassment in their professional environment. It is essential to provide them with adequate support, both legal and emotional, in order to help them obtain justice. This requires the establishment of secure and confidential reporting mechanisms, independent rigorous and impartial investigations, as well as appropriate sanctions against harassers. 

The recovery of the mental and physical health of the victims is an essential step in this process. We therefore encourage the authorities to put in place specialized support programs, including access to mental health professionals, legal advice and assistance with professional reintegration. 

Together we must work to eliminate harassment of women in the workplace. Only by creating respectful, egalitarian and safe environments can we ensure the development and full participation of women in all aspects of society. 

We therefore call upon the authorities, employers, workers and all citizens to mobilize against harassment in the workplace. By acting collectively, we can create lasting change and build a future where every woman is free to work without fear or discrimination. 

Iranian Canadian Congress 

The Board of Directors of the Iranian Canadian Congress (ICC) held its first official post-AGM2023 meeting on Tuesday April 18th, 2023. The board discussed administrative matters related to the transition of documents and records from the former directors and also appointed new executive officers and department chairs. The following appointments were unanimously approved by the Board:

President: Dr. Arezou Khadir
Vice-President: Mona Ghasemi
Treasurer: Mohammad Vahidi Rad
Secretary: Dr. Amirhassan Ghassemi Tafreshi

Co-Chairs of the Administration and Finance Department: Dr. Arezou Khadir, Mona Ghasemi

Chair of the Policy Department: Dr. Amirhassan Ghassemi Tafreshi

Chair of the Culture Department: Asoudeh Novin

Co-Chairs of the Public Relations Department: Dr. Arezou Khadir, Mona Ghasemi

Chair of the Culture Department: Asoudeh Novin

Chair of the Service Committee: Daniel Sarvestani

Chair of the Mental Health Committee: Dr. Raheleh Tarani

Chair of the Research & Education Committee: Mona Borghei

Chair of the Organizational Structure Committee: Reza Namdari

Chair of the Communication policy Committee: Dr. Amirhassan Ghassemi Tafreshi

Chair of the Content Development Committee: Mohammad Vahidi Rad

Chair of the Cyberspace Committee: Reza Namdari

ICC ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AGM 2023 RECORDING

ویدیوی کامل جلسه مجمع عمومی سال 2023 کنگره ایرانیان کانادا

https://youtu.be/z5dUxx46By0

The election committee announced the following new Board of directors have been elected for a period of two years: 

1. Ms. Mona Borghei
2. Mr. Amirhassan Ghasseminejad-Tafreshi
3. Ms.Mona Ghassemi
4. Ms.Arezou Khadir
5. Ms. Asoudeh Novin
6. Ms. Raheleh Tarani
7. Mr. Mohammad VahidiRad

ویدیوی کامل جلسه مجمع عمومی سال 2023 کنگره ایرانیان کانادا

https://youtu.be/z5dUxx46By0

گزارش دکتر مسلم نوری، رییس کنگره ایرانیان کانادا درباره فعالیت های کنگره ایرانیان کانادا ارائه شده در مجمع عمومی سال 2023 این سازمان