ABOUT US
Fighting for a world Free from islamophobia.
From legal battles to policy reform, we are committed to ensuring Islamophobia has no place in our society. We stand against racism, challenge systemic discrimination, and work for a Canada where no one fears for their safety because of their faith.
OUR STORY
VISION/MISSION/VALUES
Change begins with one bold action. Ours started over two decades ago. In 2000, a small group of brave Canadian Muslims in Montreal and Ottawa decided to challenge Islamophobia. Since then, the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) has become Canada’s largest Muslim advocacy and lobby organization.
We are an independent, non-partisan, and non-profit organization combating Islamophobia and protecting civil liberties at every level.
NCCM engages in policy advocacy, public education, legal actions, and community engagement to build a more inclusive society.
Where does the strength to take on injustice and discrimination come from? It comes from the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who stand for what is just and right. Above all, it comes from the mercy of the Merciful.
“When truth is hurled against falsehood, falsehood vanishes, for falsehood is by its nature bound to vanish.”
From fighting discriminatory laws like Bill 21 in the Supreme Court to protecting schools and mosques and advocating for Palestinians and Uyghur Muslims, we are taking action to rid the world of Islamophobia.
Today, NCCM has more than 200,000 supporters, advocates from coast to coast, and offices nationwide, fighting abuse, systemic racism, and Islamophobia. We are vigorously defending the right of people to be who they are and to worship as they choose to worship.
What a group of dreamers and idealists started has turned into a powerful voice fighting for Muslims’ rights nationally and globally. Join this journey to end hate in the world.
VISION/MISSION/VALUES
VISION
NCCM envisions a Canada where Muslims are fully engaged, empowered, and recognized as a driving force for positive change.
MISSION
Our mission is to protect human rights & civil liberties and dismantle Islamophobia through advocacy.
VALUES
We believe in a Canada where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.
We stand for civil liberties, justice, inclusivity, and active citizenship.
We believe in empowering grassroots Muslim communities to create meaningful change together.
OUR HISTORY
2025
Challenging Bill 21 in Supreme Court
Ever since the Quebec government passed Bill 21 on June 16, 2019, we have been fighting tirelessly to overturn the discriminatory law violating the religious freedom of women in Canada. NCCM and other organizations, including the World Sikh Organization (WSO) are pursuing legal actions.
We are raising public awareness and calling for petitions to repeal Bill 21. With the support of the CCLA, we areour relentless efforts we takingook Bill 21 to Supreme Court and we will continue fighting until it is dropped.
2023
Special Office on Islamophobia
When a family was murdered by an Islamophobe in London, Ontario on June 6, 2021, the horrific incident shook the Muslim community. To challenge deadly hate crimes, NCCM pushed for the policy to create a federal office combating Islamophobia across Canada and advocated relentlessly for its implementation.
In January 2023, NCCM applauded the federal government’s creation of the Office of the Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia – a historic step towards fighting Islamophobia in Canada.
2023
NSIRA’s Review of Canadian Review Agency’s for systematic bias
NCCM and leading community organizations have called for the suspension of the Review and Analysis Division (RAD) at the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) due to systemic racism and Islamophobia.
In 2023, the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA) launched a review of CRA’s unfair audit practices. It has been years since we have been working on this issue. We will continue to demand the suspension of RAD until substantial action is taken.
2021
Dismantling White Supremacist Groups
After the tragic murder of mosque caretaker Mohamed-Aslim Zafis in Toronto by a member of a neo-Nazi occultist group, NCCM called on the government to take action and ban white supremacist groups.
After more than a year of advocacy, NCCM succeeded in getting the extremist groups dismantled. On June 25, 2021, the federal government placed the Three Percenters and Aryan Strikeforce as terrorist entities on the Criminal Code list.
2017
Successfully Beating Bill 62 in Quebec
On October 18, 2017, the Quebec National Assembly enacted Bill 62, restricting Muslim women wearing a veil from receiving public services. NCCM and the Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) filed a constitutional challenge, arguing the law directly targeted Muslim women who wear the niqab.
Represented by IMK LLP, the lawsuit sought to halt the enforcement of Section 10. This legal battle was a critical stand against Islamophobia, protecting religious freedoms and civil liberties for Muslim women.
Bill 62 was successfully stayed in court through our injunction.
2015
Defending the Religious Freedom of Rania El Alloul in Court
In February 2015, Quebec Court Judge Eliana Marengo refused to hear Rania El-Alloul’s case unless she removed her hijab, wrongly comparing it to a hat or sunglasses.
NCCM strongly condemned this violation of religious freedom and supported Rania El Alloul’s case. In a powerful rebuke, Quebec Superior Court Justice Wilbrod Décarie later ruled that the decision had no legal basis and deeply regretted how El-Alloul was treated. This ruling reaffirmed that religious beliefs cannot be dismissed in court.
2013
Intervened In Harakat Case
In 2013, NCCM intervened in Mohamed Harkat v. Minister of Citizenship and Immigration case, challenging Canada’s controversial security certificate system. This system allowed indefinite detention of non-Canadian Muslim men without charges or due process.
Led by NCCM legal counsel, we argued before the Supreme Court that security certificates violate core civil liberties and urged the Court to strike them down.
This isn’t the first case for NCCM to intervene before the Supreme Court. In 2012, we intervened in the R. v. N.S. case on the matter of giving testimony while wearing a niqab.
2013
Bill 60 and the Charter of Values in Quebec
In 2013, when the Parti Québécois introduced the so-called Values Charter, NCCM took a stand. The proposed law sought to ban public employees from wearing religious symbols and limit religious accommodations. In response, we launched the Quebec For All Campaign—a national initiative to defend human rights and diversity.
In December 2013, we submitted a brief to the Quebec National Assembly, warning that Bill 60 would institutionalize discrimination. We proposed amendments to protect religious freedoms while upholding true state neutrality and gender equality.
2012
Opposed Bill S-7 “Combating Terrorism Act”
In November 2012, we, NCCM, alongside leading civil liberties and human rights organizations, testified before the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security to oppose Bill S-7. Known as the Combating Terrorism Act, this bill reintroduced expired provisions allowing preventive arrests and secret investigative hearings.
NCCM stood firm against laws that threatened civil liberties, joining voices like the British Columbia Civil Liberties Association (BCCLA), the Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA), the International Civil Liberties Monitoring Group (ICLMG), the Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) and La Ligue des Droit et Libertes.
2009
Repatriation of Abousfian Abdelrazik
We successfully fought for the repatriation of Abousfian Abdelrazik, who had been unjustly detained and tortured with the complicity of the Canadian government. Our now Vice-Chair Khalid Elgazzar served as one of Abousfian’s lawyers in the case.
2007
Represented Correctional Officer Fired For Wearing a Hijab
In 2007, we represented a correctional officer at Montreal’s Bordeaux Detention Centre who was fired for wearing the hijab. She had already passed all preliminary tests and was halfway through training when she was told she couldn’t wear a hijab for safety reasons. We supported her case before the Quebec Human Rights Tribunal, providing hijab options addressing safety concerns. With our assistance, she successfully challenged the ban, which led to Quebec’s Ministry of Public Security modifying the dress code to accommodate a safe, approved hijab.
2004
HELPED BRING MAHER ARAR HOME
We led a national campaign urging the federal government to hold a public inquiry into the case of Maher Arar, which the government did January 2004.
We participated as a key intervenor in the Arar Public Inquiry. The Commission of Inquiry into the Actions of Canadian Officials in Relation to Maher Arar was a public inquiry investigating the rendition and torture of Maher Arar.
The Commissioner of the inquiry was Justice Dennis O’Connor. The report concluded that Arar was innocent, that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s intelligence was unreliable, and that the RCMP deliberately orchestrated a smear campaign by leaking false information to the media to prolong Arar’s detention and prevent a public inquiry into its conduct.
2000
Our beginnings
NCCM was initially founded in 2000 as CAIR-CAN by a small group of brave Canadian Muslim leaders fighting against Islamophobia. From the beginning, we led and fought for some of the most defining moments in Canada’s civil liberties history.
We’ve always been a separate and independent organization from CAIR in the United States, but we initially chose to operate under a similar brand during the early years of our founding due to CAIR’s advocacy work. Then, over 10 years ago we became NCCM. Our distinct identity and question of independence were tested in court proceedings and validated by our successful defamation case against the Harper government in 2014.
Now, as NCCM, we continue to stand strong against hate and injustice, fighting for religious freedom every day.
WHO WE ARE
MISSION
Our mission is to protect human rights and civil liberties, challenge discrimination and Islamophobia, foster understanding, and advocate for the concerns of Canadian Muslims.
VISION
NCCM envisions a Canada where Muslims are fully engaged, empowered, and recognized as a driving force for positive change.
VALUES
We believe in a Canada where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. We stand for civil liberties, justice, inclusivity, and active citizenship, empowering Muslim communities to raise their voices, fight for their rights, and create meaningful change together.
MEet the team advocating for your rights everyday!
A team with the courage to confront injustice and the power to change. As legal experts, organizers, and advocates, we fight Islamophobia, shape policy, and amplify voices—all in pursuit of justice.
Stephen started his career as a continual improvement professional in the manufacturing sector. He returned to university to earn his Commerce degree in business technology management at Concordia University in Montreal, where he joined the student movement and became the director of the Concordia Student Union Advocacy Centre. There he founded the office for graduate students, managed operations, and advised student leaders on student rights and academic issues.
After starting his own tech start-up that he ran for a number of years, Stephen went on to become an organizer for one of the largest labour unions in Canada, where he dealt with accreditation cases and organized tens of thousands of workers where he managed labour relations, negotiated collective agreements, and took on grievances and health & safety cases. Stephen held consecutive mandates as the head labour representative for large locals in the healthcare and municipal sectors where he led teams of litigators, lawyers, and pension fund specialists.
Stephen comes from an Afro-Canadian family that was active during the civil rights movement.
Stephen has been a long-standing leader within the Quebec Muslim community, working to promote human rights, interfaith dialogue, and Muslim youth initiatives as well as helping community groups to develop various advocacy initiatives and implement best practices. A prolific speaker, his writings have been published in various news media and he has been a commentator on public policy matters including Bill 21, civil liberties and Islamophobia, and Muslims in Quebec.
Raised in Aurora, Ontario, Omar has been involved in community service since his teens, leading youth engagement and mosque fundraising initiatives. After earning a degree in Economics from the University of Waterloo, he pursued a successful career in the private sector as a Sales Director before dedicating himself full-time to advocacy. Omar previously served as NCCM’s Community Engagement Officer for the GTA and Director of Community Engagement.
Omar’s leadership has been transformational, spearheading national campaigns that challenge systemic Islamophobia and promote inclusion. His deep commitment to community organizing has solidified his place as one of Canada’s most influential advocates. Alongside his advocacy, Omar has built a thriving social media presence, where he leverages his platform to engage with and mobilize communities across the country.
Over the past six years, Aasiyah has designed and facilitated anti-Islamophobia training programs for more than 10,000 educators, students, and community members. She also contributed to the Peel District School Board’s groundbreaking anti-Islamophobia strategy—the first of its kind in North America—and continues to collaborate with other school boards and institutions to shape policies and strategies that address systemic discrimination.
With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master’s in Social Work, Aasiyah’s work is firmly rooted in anti-oppressive practice. She led a research project that amplified the voices of young Muslim women in the Greater Toronto Area, highlighting both the impact of Islamophobia and the resilience within these communities. Through her role at NCCM, Aasiyah remains committed to creating transformative change in educational settings and advocating for equity and justice across Canada.
As a founding member of multiple impactful initiatives such as National Zakat Foundation Canada, Nisa Foundation, Nisa Helpline, Nisa Homes, and others, Zubair has played a pivotal role in shaping the Canadian Muslim community’s support infrastructure. His nine-year tenure as CEO of National Zakat Foundation Canada reflects his commitment to empowering and uplifting the community.
Zubair’s leadership also extends beyond executive roles, as he actively contributes to the boards of National Zakat Foundation and Nisa Foundation, channeling his passion for fostering positive change and growth within the Muslim community in Canada.
Nusaiba received her Juris Doctor from Western Law, where she was the recipient of the Margaret H. McNulty Prize awarded to a student who shows great promise and where she obtained a Certificate of Mediation from the Dispute Resolution Centre. She graduated with distinction and was honoured to receive the Law Society of Upper Canada Prize for academic achievement. Following her call to the bar, Nusaiba practiced as a corporate and commercial lawyer before transitioning into human rights based and advocacy work at NCCM.
As NCCM’s Director of Legal Affairs, Nusaiba is responsible for helping community members seeking legal assistance in matters related to Islamophobia, hate and discrimination and for developing legal and policy solutions for a more just and inclusive Canada.
ANY QUESTIONS?
WE GOT YOU.
You may have questions about our fight against racism and Islamophobia, our advocacy for justice, or how you can be part of the change. Whether it’s our legal actions, policy impact, or ways to get involved, we’ve got the answers you need.
What is NCCM?
The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) is an independent, non-partisan, and non-profit organization dedicated to protecting civil liberties, advocating for human rights, and combating Islamophobia in Canada. NCCM works through policy advocacy, public education, legal support, and community engagement to build a more inclusive society.
We are the largest Muslim advocacy and lobby organization in Canada.
What does NCCM do?
NCCM focuses on a wide range of initiatives, including:
- Advocating for policy changes to protect the rights of Muslims and other marginalized communities.
- Providing legal support to individuals facing discrimination or hate crimes.
- Educating the public and stakeholders about Islamophobia and systemic discrimination.
- Engaging with government officials, media, and community leaders to promote inclusion and justice.
Why is NCCM’s work important?
With rising hate crimes and discrimination, NCCM’s work is crucial in protecting civil rights, advocating for justice, and ensuring that Canadian Muslims have a strong and unified voice in policy and public discourse. Our efforts contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society for all Canadians.
Who works at NCCM?
Learn more about the NCCM staff, who fight against Islamophobia, stand in solidarity with affected communities, and fight for our civil liberties. Click here.
I want to join the fight against Islamophobia. How can I help?
- NCCM has several current action alerts that help you push on a range of important issues. You can also join our team and help us advocate on the key issues.
- If you want to volunteer – whether as a fundraiser, a community organizer, or a student – sign up below!
- If you want to report an incident, fill out an Incident Report Form below. Our team will connect and support you with wrap-around services.
- Action requires resources. Donate today to help us keep fighting for Muslims.
How does NCCM support victims of Islamophobia?
NCCM offers legal assistance and advocacy for individuals who have experienced Islamophobic incidents, discrimination, or hate crimes. We also provide educational resources to empower communities and work with policymakers to address systemic issues that contribute to Islamophobia.
What are some of NCCM’s recent campaigns?
NCCM has worked on hundreds of impactful campaigns. Here are just a few recent examples:
- Fighting for justice in cases of racial and religious discrimination.
- Advocating for stronger laws against hate speech and violence.
- Calling for government accountability on human rights issues, including Palestinian human rights and policies in Quebec.
- Promoting inclusive policies in schools to combat Islamophobia.
How can I get involved with NCCM?
- Volunteer: Join our advocacy and outreach initiatives.
- Donate: Contributions help fund legal support, public education, and advocacy work.
- Stay Informed: Follow NCCM on social media and subscribe to our newsletter.
- Report Incidents: If you experience or witness an incident of Islamophobia, report it to NCCM.
How can I contact NCCM?
You can reach NCCM through our website, email, or social media channels. If you require legal assistance or want to report an incident, visit our website for more details on how to get in touch.
See Contact Us.
Join our fight to
end islamophobia
If you’re ready to use your skills to make a real difference, there’s a place for you here.
ENGAGE WITH NCCM
Make Your Voice Heard
Unjust laws change when voices come together. By sending an email today, you help push for stronger policies to combat Islamophobia and discrimination.
Volunteer
Whether you’re passionate about advocacy, education, or community outreach, NCCM offers volunteer opportunities where your time and skills can make a real impact. Join us in protecting rights and shaping policies.
Join the Movement
We need your help every day. Want to learn more about every campaign, as they are happening, live? Join our email list below to join the movement to end Islamophobia in Canada.
Make A Donation
Justice requires action. Action requires resources. Your donation supports legal aid, advocacy for policy change, and the fight against Islamophobia at every level. Give today and stand up for the right of Canadian Muslims.