The Government of Canada issues a statement to mark Canadian Islamic History Month

OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 1, 2026 /CNW/ -- The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, made the following statement:

"Every year, October marks Canadian Islamic History Month, an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the many contributions of Muslim communities to Canada's history, culture and society.

Today, nearly 2 million Muslims from more than 50 countries call Canada home. At the heart of the Islamic faith are the Five Pillars of Islam, which are closely connected to values such as empathy, humility, gratitude, generosity and care for people who are most vulnerable. These principles resonate with values that Canadians hold dear and help build a more caring, united and inclusive society.

Canadian Muslims have also enriched our country through their diverse cultures, traditions and stories. From entrepreneurship and science to the arts, architecture and the community sector, their creativity, knowledge and dedication continue to help shape our communities and make our country stronger.

Canadian Islamic History Month is also an opportunity to remind ourselves that we must continue to confront the scourge of Islamophobia that affects Muslim communities across the country. We will always stand with Muslim communities and defend the right of all Canadians to express their culture and faith safely.

Earlier this year, we established the Advisory Council on Rights, Equality and Inclusion, bringing together experts and community leaders from across the country to strengthen social cohesion and combat racism and hate in all their forms. We are also strengthening the Canada Community Security Program and taking action through the Combatting Hate Act, Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy 2024–2028 and Canada's Action Plan on Combatting Hate. Together, these efforts are helping build safer, more inclusive communities for everyone.

This October, I invite everyone to discover and celebrate the incredible contributions, cultures and traditions of Muslim communities across the country.

I wish all Muslim communities in every province and territory a very happy Canadian Islamic History Month."

SOURCE Canadian Heritage