Women from different beliefs gathered recently to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Federation of Muslim Women (FMW) at the Mississauga Grand Conven­tion Centre.

“During the past few years FMW has worked at the grassroots level to educate the Muslim and mainstream communities about Islam and Muslims, and to alleviate poverty both within the local and global contexts,” said Zahida Murtaza, co-chair of FMW.

“We have developed teaching materials that are used by the school system in anti-racism education,” she added.

“Over the past decade, we have also networked with the police, RCMP, and many groups who provide support to victims of poverty and violence,” she said.

Murtaza indicated that FMW has been fortunate to be able to work with many partners on various projects. “Our greatest asset is our diversity,” she said.

Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion said at the celebration, “Now it’s time that all women in different faiths, Christianity, Islam, Judaism and others to work together.

“We all believe in one God, but our practising is different, that make the diversity and make us work together for better society,” she added. “I wish we all work together not only here but throughout the world,” McCallion said.

Premier Dalton McGuinty said in a message to FMW: “The Muslim community has made many contributions to the economic, social and cultural life of our great province.

“You work hard in and with dedication to fostering a greater understanding of Islam and to alleviating poverty both at home and abroad,” he added.

FMW represents many cultures from different geographical regions of the world.
“It works towards the empowerment of women and children through raising awareness and education that ensures the dignity and worth of all people,” Murtaza said.