Authorities in Mississauga are working to uncover the location of a controversial Islamic conference organized by Hizb-ut-Tahrir Canada, scheduled for January 18. The event, which focuses on the theme “The Khilafah: Eliminating the Obstacles Delaying Its Return,” has sparked widespread concern, though its venue remains undisclosed.
Promotional material circulating on social media invites participants to explore strategies for establishing a Caliphate, a societal structure governed by Islamic principles. Hizb-ut-Tahrir Canada describes itself as a political entity advocating for Islam as its ideology. Despite public outcry, the group has not issued a statement addressing the controversy.
It appears as though Hizb ut-Tahrir Canada has hidden or deleted this video from its Facebook page.
Watch it here 👇 pic.twitter.com/DcoZi43bPD
— Jarryd Jäger (@JarrydJaeger) January 3, 2025
Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish has expressed strong opposition, emphasizing that preaching hate is a federal crime. “Our municipality refuses to rent facilities to groups promoting hate,” Parrish stated on X (formerly Twitter). She confirmed efforts to track down the event’s location and collaborate with police to ensure community safety. Parrish also revealed that airport authorities have been alerted to monitor individuals entering Canada who may appear on banned lists.
Journalist Jarryd Jager of the Western Standard highlighted that Hizb-ut-Tahrir promotes Sharia law and an Islamic world order. A video linked to the event, filmed against recognizable Mississauga landmarks, calls for Muslims to overcome global powers like the U.S., Europe, and China, asserting that no force can rival divine power.
Meir Weinstein of Israel Now has vowed to protest the conference, should it proceed. “We will oppose any gathering that declares war on Western civilization, including Jews, Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and even Muslims who reject this doctrine,” Weinstein said.
The City of Mississauga strictly adheres to the following CONDITIONS OF USE when renting City facilities to any group or organization. The City will refuse access to groups exhibiting “contempt or hatred” in any form and can remove permits should such behaviour be reported. pic.twitter.com/uI6nrfQtxU
— Mayor Carolyn Parrish (@carolynhparrish) January 3, 2025
While critics argue that authorities are slow to respond to events promoting radical ideologies, Parrish defended her proactive stance. She noted that Hizb-ut-Tahrir has been banned from municipal facilities for over a decade due to its history of promoting anti-democratic ideologies.
Richard Robertson, Director of Research and Advocacy at B’nai Brith Canada, voiced similar concerns. “Hizb-ut-Tahrir is internationally recognized for its extremist views,” he said. “This event could have serious implications for Canadian society.”
This conference is a declaration of war against Western civilization. The event must be shut down wherever it is. https://t.co/GlnFKi4Zt7
— Israel Now (@neveragainlive1) January 3, 2025
The conference is being marketed as a family-friendly gathering, featuring speeches on topics such as nationalism, colonialism, and Palestine. Hizb-ut-Tahrir is also offering free lunch and childcare for attendees.
Peel Regional Police confirmed they are monitoring the situation and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for hate or violence. However, they assured residents that no immediate threats to public safety have been identified.
Preaching hate of any kind is a federal criminal offence. All we as a municipality can do is not rent our facilities to potential hate mongers, try to track down where the conference is being held and inform the police.
— Mayor Carolyn Parrish (@carolynhparrish) January 3, 2025
As Mississauga grapples with this contentious event, questions remain about its potential impact on local and national security. While the RCMP and the Prime Minister’s Office have yet to comment, the event’s fate is uncertain, with Mayor Parrish and community leaders remaining vigilant.
