Two Muslim women of Pakistani origin have been elected to Canada’s Parliament in the 2025 federal election, marking a proud moment for both the Pakistani diaspora and Muslim communities across the country.

Iqra Khalid, a long-serving Liberal Member of Parliament, secured her fourth term with a lead of more than 5,000 votes over her rival.

Salma Zahid, another prominent Muslim and Pakistani-origin politician, also retained her seat, securing over 21,000 votes.

Both Khalid and Zahid have been recognized for their consistent advocacy on issues related to human rights, immigration, and inclusivity. Their re-election is being seen by many as a reflection of the increasing political engagement and influence of Canadian Muslims.

More than ever before, Muslims made their electoral power known in Canada’s 2025 general election.

Muslim Canadians are urging political leaders to move beyond symbolic gestures and adopt concrete policies to combat Islamophobia and uphold human rights—both domestically and abroad.

The urgency of these demands is heightened by the alarming rise in Islamophobia in Canada, Canada currently holds the grim distinction of leading G7 nations in targeted killings of Muslims.

Despite the ongoing challenges faced by the Muslim community, the issue has received little attention in election debates.

Canada’s foreign policy on Gaza is under scrutiny, with Muslim voters expecting the next government to show leadership and integrity.

Recently, The Advocates’ Society canceled an event with Syrian peace advocate Tareq Hadhad after he condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza. Though they apologized, the incident highlighted growing intolerance toward pro-Palestinian voices.

While progress has been made—such as the 2023 appointment of Amira Elghawaby as Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia—advocates say more is urgently needed.

She emphasized the need for education that goes beyond awareness to active resistance against Islamophobia.

Source: AboutIslam.net