Miracle 617, February 23, 2024

Vancouver Rallies for Rafah: Thousands March for Peace in Gaza

Over a thousand demonstrators rallied in Vancouver, echoing global calls for peace in Rafah, Gaza. As Israeli attacks threaten innocent lives, protestors demand an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid.

Reported :Sakchi Khandelwal

I found myself in the midst of a sea of protestors, their chants echoing off the steel beams of Vancouver’s Burrard Bridge. “Rafah, Rafah, Rafah,” they cried out, their voices a unified call for peace in the wake of an Israeli attack on the Gaza Strip town.

Cont. @ page 5

Poilievre’s support continues to rise as fewer think Trudeau should be leader, new Nanos surveys find

Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives have increased their support as the party Canadians would vote for and the Liberals are at a statistical tie with the New Democrats, according to the latest Nanos Research ballot tracking, which measures popular support for the major federal

parties.Poilievre’s personal numbers continue to trend sharply upwards while his party saw a 17-point advantage over the federal Liberals in the new Nanos tracking.

On the ballot question, Conservatives are leading with an uptick in support over the past four weeks

Cont. @ page 5

Aisha reported: The most beloved month to the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, for fasting was Sha’ban, then he would connect it with Ramadan. Source: Sunan

Scientific Miracles In The Quran – Quran And Science

By: Abdullah Ansari

Among the miracles of the Holy Quran is its preservation, which is unlike that of any other Holy Book. It’s an established fact that the Quran remains in its original form, free of any corruption by human beings. This guarantees that every word within it was revealed over 14 centuries ago. Hence, there can be no dispute over the fact that the numerous scientific facts in the Quran were revealed to our Prophet (PBUH) many centuries before being corroborated by modern science.

There’s no denying that science was archaic and thoroughly outdated at the time of our Prophet (PBUH), in comparison to the present. Certainly, there were none of today’s technological marvels that aid science available in that era. There were no telescopes, microscopes, etc. in the 7th century! Therefore, what were the odds of an illiterate desert-dweller like Muhammad (PBUH) producing the scientific miracles of the Quran? Verily, the only plausible answer is that he received a revelation from God. It wasn’t conceivable for the advanced science in the Quran to originate from a man in the seventh century. The remarkable preservation of the Quran, by virtue of the memorization and recording of its text, makes it clear that none of its scientific miracles were added separately, after the Prophet’s (PBUH) demise. We will now cover some scientific examples of miracles in the Quran.

Source: quranforkids.com

Kin a new region or for someone who is always traveling.

There are multiple ways to determine Qibla direction, such as using the compass or online websites and applications are relatively easy and reliable options. Whereas one can also determine the Qibla direction with the help of Sun positioning, mosque minarets with markers, or asking the locals; however, these alternatives are somewhat inaccurate.

Using a compass:

Hold the compass flat in your hands and make sure there are no metal objects that may affect the correct operation of the compass or an object producing magnetic fields. The red end of the needle typically points north. Turn yourself so that the red needle coincides with the north (N) in the compass housing.

Find the Qibla angle from the north (N) in

the compass housing for your place or city.

This should provide the direction of Qibla for your prayer.

Keep in mind that Qibla’s direction can vary slightly based on the specific location and the magnetic declination in that area.

Does Qibla’s direction have t be exact?

One should strive to make sure he is fac ing in the right direction, but in Islam, the intention and effort to do so remain an im portant element.

Does Qibla’s direction change?

The direction of Kaaba changes based on the change in the location of a person.

Source:muslimandquran.com/qibladirection

Qibla Direction from Vancouver, United States

From Vancouver, United States, the direction of the Qibla is 100° E directly to Mecca, and a distance of 12349.5567 kilometers separates the two places.

Qiblal Direction: 100° degree

Distance between Vancouver and Mecca 12,349.56 km

Latitude, L ongitude

45.6372, -122.5965

https://timesprayer.com/en/directionqibla-vancouver.html

Please don’t keep your Cell phone to check Qibla direction at Crapet or Metal surface.

(best is on wooden floor)

By: Naseer Pirzada

A

Message from Hon. Harry Bains, MLA for Surrey Newton

On this momentous occasion of the 23rd anniversary of The Miracle Newspaper, I extend my warmest congratulations to the entire team. As the first Muslim biweekly newspaper in both English and Urdu, The Miracle has been a beacon of information and unity for our community.

The Miracle holds a special place in the hearts of our local Muslim households, and its influence extends beyond, resonating with other communities as well. As the MLA for SurreyNewton, diversity and multiculturalism remain a focus for our government, and we appreciate the role the Miracle plays within the community Through thick and thin, even during the challenging times of the pandemic, The Miracle has stood tall, continuously publishing biweekly. This unwavering commitment is a testament to the newspaper’s dedication to “Bringing Harmony to all the Communities.”

As we celebrate this milestone, let us recognize the tireless efforts of the Miracle team. Your reporting and community engagement have fostered understanding, bridged gaps, and promoted goodwill. Thank you for your insightful journalism and commitment to unity.

Harry Bains MLA Surrey- Newton

Ph:604-597-8248 105-7327 137 Avenue Surrey, BC V3W1A4 harry.bains.MLA@leg.bc.ca

Sukh Dhaliwal

Member of Parliament Surrey Newton

RE: Miracle’s 23rd Anniversary

I am so pleased to be able to send my heartfelt congratulations to the Miracle newspaper on your 23rd anniversary.

The impact of the publication throughout British Columbia’s Muslim community cannot be underestimated. There is real power to providing coverage, discussion and analysis in both English and Urdu, rendering the Miracle as an immense pillar behind the sense of togetherness amongst community

Ottawa

Room 350, Confederation Building Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A6 Tel.: 613-992-0666

sukhdhaliwal.liberal.ca

Focus on achieving the goal of nation building by Muslim media to be continue

Important is the increasing presence of Media in our daily life cannot be denied anyone.

It is not uncommon today to be watching Social Media rather than TV, while scrolling through news on your smartphone or tablet with online streaming playing in the background.

Now the Digital Media is superseding print media, the print media has been transitioning to electronic editions, and accessible technology has made such bridging easier.

Malcolm X once said,

“The media is the most powerful entity on earth. They have the power to make the innocent guilty and that’s power. Because they control the minds of the masses.”

The role of media is being defined and redefined constantly as people around the world gain access to various types of media.

Media has been applauded for promoting free speech and at the same time accused of inciting violence and spreading propaganda.

It is a fine line that all media outlets, regardless of the audience, need to walk all the time.

The Miracle Media Group has been very conscious of this need for balance from day one.

Twenty Three years ago, the environment in which the newspaper was launched was quite different than today. This was pre-9/11, and the ideals on which the newspaper was founded were giving Muslims a voice in the mainstream through

their own platform and promoting the community while “Bringing

harmony among all communities in Canada.”

Circumstances changed in less than a year and Muslims all over the world found themselves on the defence, protecting their families, fighting hate crimes, negative portrayals in the Mainstream Media while trying to increase the awareness about Islam and Muslims.

At that time, the role of Muslim media become more pivotal than ever as it was incumbent on them to use all their means to combat ignorance, and discriminatory attitude of some powerful Mainstream Media. As Muslims are legally entitled to proceed in an organized manner to protect their faith, their media too is equally entitled to publish literature to give the true picture to the public regardless of ethnicity, colour or creed.

The fact is media is always bound by a code of ethics to continue as competitive and credible under all circumstances. A successful journalist has to be conscientious, because presenting the distorted facts is unethical and unlawful.

Fortunately, the Muslim Media of today has genuine encouragement to become more and more assertive with an improved degree of confidence. In other words, they are more involved and getting closer to be competitive even in the commercially focused media market. Better late than never, the Muslims

are comfortable to troubleshoot the negative status quo through their own electronic and print media.

They are catching up gradually and hopefully would be able to free the Canadian audience of Islamophobia. Misreporting, exaggerating, or ignoring coverage for the Muslims did lead to the formation of such independent voice of Muslim community through their own print and electronic media throughout Canada.

Moreover, utilizing Muslim friendly apparatus, pro-Islamic media advocates may go ahead with repairing the tarnished image of Islam. Regularly airing of the constructive interfaith dialogues can be further fruitful.

The Miracle Media Group has strived to uphold these ideas.

While it has not been a perfect journey, we are constantly learning from our mistakes and building on our experiences.

Over the past 23 years, the landscape has changed within the BC Muslim Community.

The community has grown exponentially, and various media outlets are now representing the community and different viewpoints.

In the spirit of unity and harmony, The BC Muslim Electronic and Print Media Think Tank formed a Canadian Muslim Media Club (CMMC) in 2019. The Miracle Media Group is one of its key members and being a President term of 2023-24 of CMMC we committed to taking action.

As Muslim Media reaches full force on daily basis, the Muslim youth would be encouraged to benefit, preserve, and strengthen their Islamic identity.

In addition to the print media, a daily Muslim presence in the broadcast media and the internet would correct the anti-Islam feelings among the non-Muslim Canadians. We seen Muslim female journalists like Ginella Massa on television, hosting a prime-time show on Canada’s own CBC and breaking the glass ceiling for Muslims, in particular, hijab-wearing Muslim sisters.

Progress cannot happen in a vacuum. The community continues to work together to strengthen its voice and representation in the media.

Whether it is supporting through advertising in free newspapers, writing for a Muslim publication or reading a newspaper and sharing your feedback and suggestions, we all have a part to play in strengthening Muslim Media. Meanwhile, Muslim Media should continue to focus on achieving the goal of nation building based on balanced truthful journalism on merit. Together, everything is possible. Waan Laysa Lil Insana illa ma’ sa’aa

“That man can have nothing but what he strives for.”

By: Misbah Naseer Asst. Miracle Editor

Poilievre’s support continues to rise as fewer think Trudeau should be leader, nandos...

News Coninued from Page 1

at 40.6 per cent versus Justin Trudeau’s Liberals, whose support dipped to 23.8 per cent. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and his party saw a slight rise in support at 21.9 per cent. ”The reality is still (a) big advantage for Pierre Poilievre on the ballot numbers,” said Nik Nanos(opens in a new tab), CTV News’ pollster and chief data scientist of Nanos Research, on the latest episode of CTV News Trend Line.

“When you see those Liberal num-

bers get towards the NDP numbers, who knows what Jagmeet Singh might do? Especially since … we’re in 2024 (and there’s) not a big gap between the New Democrats and the Liberals.”

Poilievre ‘in the driver’s seat’

For another Nanos survey on Canadians’ preferred prime minister, about 36 per cent of respondents say Poilievre is their best choice, a 16-point advantage over Trudeau, who has 20 per cent. Singh is at 15 per cent.

“The trend line for Pierre Poilievre

is at a level that is higher than any Conservative leader, including Stephen Harper, in the past decade,” Nanos said. “He’s basically in the driver’s seat in terms of the ballot numbers and also in the driver’s seat when it comes to who Canadians today at least would prefer as prime minister.” For the ballot support and preferred PM surveys, the data is based on a random fourweek telephone poll of 1,032 Canadians (aged 18 years and older), which is accurate 3.1 percentage points, plus or minus, 19 times out

of 20. The interviews ended Feb. 16. Moreover, a Nanos survey with The Globe and Mail asked Canadians what would be the best way for the Liberals to improve their chances of winning the next federal election. “(Trudeau) took the party out of the wilderness in 2015,” Nanos said. “The party could go back into the wilderness if he’s leader, except if there’s something major that happens where he does really well and Pierre Poilievre really blows up.”..

Source: ctvnews.ca

Vancouver Rallies for Rafah: Thousands March for Peace in Gaza

News Coninued from Page 1

The March for Rafah

On February 12, 2024, thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators took to the streets of major Canadian cities. The largest gathering, held in Vancouver, saw over a thousand people come together in solidarity with the people of Rafah. They marched, they chanted, and they demanded an immediate ceasefire.“We cannot stand idly by while innocent lives are being lost,”

said Sarah, a young woman clutching a homemade sign that read ‘HandsOffRafah.’ “We need to let our government know that we do not support the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza.”

A Global Cry for Peace

The Vancouver demonstration was not an isolated event. Similar protests have been held in cities around the world, from London to Sydney, as concern grows over the potential for a large-scale offensive attack by the Israeli military.

World leaders, including U.S. President Biden, have expressed their concerns about the situation in Rafah. The town, located along the Gaza-Egypt border, is the only checkpoint for humanitarian aid from Egypt. An attack on Rafah would cut off this vital lifeline, putting thousands of lives at risk.

ple from all walks of life, united by a common goal: peace for Rafah. The road ahead is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the people of Rafah will not be forgotten. The global community is watching, and we will continue to demand an end to the violence.

The Road Ahead

As I stood on the Burrard Bridge, surrounded by the passionate cries of the protestors, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of hope. Here were peo-

As the sun began to set over Vancouver, the protestors slowly dispersed, their chants fading into the evening air. But their message remains, echoing through the streets and across the world: ‘Rafah, Rafah, Rafah.’ Source: bnnbreaking.com/

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Canada

liberal, Green MPs probe universities’ free speech policies as Israel-Hamas war grinds on

As the conflict in the Middle East rages on, 13 Liberal and Green MPs are asking 27 Canadian universities to explain how they’re protecting faculty, staff and

students from blowback over advocacy for Palestinians or Israelis.

“We have seen a rise in antisemitism, anti-Arab discrimination, anti-Palestinian discrimination and Islamophobia,” said Liberal MP for Brampton-Centre Shafqat Ali, who initiated the letter. It was sent to the universities on February 4. “We thought we should have a conversation with university presidents about how they’re dealing with this situation.” Ali was one of the five MPs who travelled to the Occupied West Bank and Jordan Source: cbc.ca/

Gas pipeline blown up in Balochistan

QUETTA: Gas supply was suspended to Mach town and surrounding areas after a gas pipeline passing through the Bolan River was blown up on Wednesday, officials said. A portion of the

six-inch pipeline caught fire after the powerful explosion, officials said. Engineers of the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) stopped the supply and a repair and maintenance team, along with required machinery, had been dispatched to the affected site. They immediately started repair work, according to SSGC spokesman Safdar Hussain. He said the team on the ground was focusing its energies on repairing the line at the earliest to ensure supply is resumed by Thursday evening. Source: Dawnnews

Yemen’s Houthis claim attacks on Israeli, US ships NATo head expects Canada to say when it will meet defence spending target

Houthi rebels say ships in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea are their latest maritime targets. Houthi followers hold a Palestinian flag during a parade in solidarity with the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and to show support to Houthi strikes on ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, in Sanaa, Yemen January 29, 2024. Houthi followers in Sanaa, Yemen, wave a Palestinian flag during a parade to show solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and support for Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.Yemen’s Houthi rebels say they have targeted what they claim to be an Israeli cargo ship, the MSC Silver, in the Gulf of Aden near the entrance to the Red Sea with a number of missiles. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea did not elaborate, but in a statement on Tuesday said the group had also used drones to target a number of United States warships in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea as well as sites

in the southern Israeli resort town of Eilat. However, the British maritime security firm Ambrey said the container ship targeted by the Houthis on Tuesday was Liberia-flagged and headed for Somalia.“The Houthis characterised the vessel as Israeli. The operator was publicly listed as [in] cooperation with ZIM and regularly called [at] Israeli ports,” the Ambrey advisory note said. Zim Integrated Shipping Services Ltd, commonly known as ZIM, is a publicly held Israeli international cargo shipping company based in Israel...Source:aljazeera.com

US vetoes another UN Security Council resolution urging Gaza war ceasefire

US vetoes another UN Security Council resolution urging Gaza war ceasefire Majority of members voted to call for an immediate ceasefire in Israel’s war on Gaza that has killed more than 29,000 people.

The United States has vetoed another United Nations Security Council draft resolution on Israel’s war on Gaza, blocking a demand

for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Arab nations, led by Algeria, put the draft resolution to a vote on Tuesday with the expectation that it would not pass after the US – Israel’s key ally – had warned it would not back the text and proposed a rival draft instead. The US was the only country to vote against the draft text while the United Kingdom abstained. The UN Security Council’s 13 other member countries voted in favour of the text demanding a halt to the war that has killed more than 29,000 people in Gaza, according to Palestinian authorities, and displaced more than 80 percent of the population.For a UN Security Council resolution to be adopted, it requires at least nine votes in favour and no vetoes by any of the five permanent members: the US, UK, France, Russia or China... Source: aljazeera.com

Bangladesh: International Mother language Day: languages we may lose soon

speakers, all of whom are elderly, of Rengmitcha language. Mang Pru Marma, 78, from Kranchipara of Bandarban’s Alikadam upazila, is among the last seven speakers, all of whom are elderly, of Rengmitcha language. Mang Pru’s son Singrao Mro, 49,

however, only knows a few words in Rengmitcha, which, he said, is spoken only in a few families in their community. With the deaths of these few remaining speakers, the death of the entire language seems inevitable. Sisters Veronica and Christina Kerketa, aged 70 and 65, are the last two women who can fluently speak the Kharia language. A resident of a remote village in Moulvibazar’s Sreemangal upazila, Veronica said, “Once we are gone, no one will speak this language. I tried to teach the younger people of our community our language, but they show no interest. No one in our own family even speaks Kharia anymore. We need to communicate in Sadri [spoken by a majority of tea-worker in Sylhet division] of Bangla with them.”..Source: thedailystar.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says he expects Canada to lay out when it will reach the alliance’s target of spending two per cent of GDP on defence. In an exclusive Canadian interview airing on CTV News Channel’s Power Play with Vassy Kapelos on Tuesday, Stoltenberg said Canada has yet to set a precise date to fulfill its spending commitment. “But I expect Canada to deliver on the pledge to invest two per cent of GDP on defence, because this is a promise we all made,” Stoltenberg said, pointing to Canada’s geographic significance on the world stage as the country with the second longest coastline.

does,” he added, also citing Canada’s announcements about increasing funding for Norad, plans to purchase F-35 fighter jets, and an increased presence in Latvia as moves in the right direction. “All of this is good, all of this matters,” Stoltenberg also said. “But of course, Canada should, as all other allies, deliver on the pledge to invest two per cent, because we need that in a more dangerous world.”..

“Canada is a big economy, (and) a member of the G7 … It really matters what Canada

Source: dawn.com/

UK parliament speaker gives labour Gaza ceasefire vote reprieve

Government and SNP condemn Speaker Lindsay Hoyle for his handling of the Gaza ceasefire debate. The UK’s House of Commons has descended into chaos as the government and the Scottish National Party (SNP) condemned Speaker Lindsay Hoyle for his handling of a key vote on support for a ceasefire in Gaza. SNP members of parliament (MPs) and some Conservatives walked out of the chamber on Wednesday

in an apparent protest at the speaker’s actions as the debate reached its conclusion. Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt claimed Hoyle had “hijacked” the debate and “undermined the confidence” of the House in its longstanding rules by allowing MPs to vote on a Labour amendment to an SNP motion calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza and Israel. The initial SNP motion also called for an end to the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people” by Israel. But Labour’s motion included language that caveated calls for a ceasefire by noting that “Israel cannot be expected to cease fighting if Hamas continues with violence”...

Source:aljazeera.com

FIJI: Ministry warns employers against oHS breaches

The Ministry of Employment has warned it will act against employers found to be in violation of occupational health and safety law. Ministry permanent secretary Maritino Nemani said those employers would be dealt with to safeguard the well-being of workers and prevent avoidable workplace incidents. Yesterday, the ministry slapped a $5000 fine on a prominent employer for occupation health and safety breaches. Those breaches, under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HASAWA) 1996 and the Health and Safety at Work (General Workplace Conditions) Regulations 2003, were: unsuitable transport for workers, unhygienic work environment;

and poor and lack of facilities provided. “It is imperative that employers take proactive measures to ensure compliance with safety standards, implement necessary safety Source: fijitimes.com.fj

Mang Pru Marma, 78, from Kranchipara of Bandarban’s Alikadam upazila, is among the last seven

The modern newspaper is a European invention.The oldest direct handwritten news sheets circulated widely in Venice as early as 1566. These weekly news sheets were full of information on wars and politics in Italy and Europe.

The first printed newspapers were published weekly in Germany from 1605. Typically, they were censored by the government, especially in France, and reported mostly foreign news and current prices. After the English government relaxed censorship in 1695, newspapers flourished in London and a few other cities including Boston and Philadelphia. By the 1830s, high-speed presses could print thousands of papers cheaply, allowing low daily costs.

16th century to 1800

Avvisi, or gazettes, were a mid-16th-century Venice phenomenon. They were issued weekly on single sheets and folded to form four pages. These publications reached a larger audience than handwritten news had in early Rome. Their format and appearance at regular intervals were two huge influences on the newspaper as we know it today.

The idea of a weekly, handwritten newssheet went from Italy to Germany and then to Holland.

First Newspapers

The term newspaper became common in the 17th century. However, in Germany, publications that we would today consider to be newspaper publications, were appearing as early as the 16th century. They were discernibly newspapers for the following reasons: they were printed, dated, appeared at regular and frequent publication intervals, and included a variety of news items (unlike single item news mentioned above).

Early forms of news periodicals were the socalled Messrelationen (“trade fair reports”) which were compiled twice a year for the large annual book fairs in Frankfurt and Leipzig, starting in the 1580s. Nevertheless, the German-language Relation aller Fürnemmen und gedenckwürdigen Historien, printed from 1605 onwards by Johann Carolus in Strasbourg, is commonly accepted to have been the first newspaper.

The emergence of the new media branch was based on the spread of the printing press from which the publishing press derives its name. Historian Johannes Weber says, “At the same time, then, as the printing press in the physical, technological sense was invented, ‘the press’ in the extended sense of

Why is Family Day celebrated?

We should know about the local and Statutory Holidays.

In Canada, Family Day was originally observed in Alberta in recognition of the importance of home and family to its founding pioneers.

The first Family Day was in observed in 1990. Almost 2 decades later additional provinces throughout Canada have adopted Family Day as well.

In most provinces of Canada, the third Monday in February is observed as a regional statutory holiday, typically known in general as Family Day (French: Jour de la famille)—though some provinces use their own names, as they celebrate the day for different reasons. The third Monday of February is observed as “Family Day” in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia (BC), New Brunswick, Ontario, and Saskatchewan; as Louis Riel Day in Manitoba; as Nova Scotia Heritage Day in Nova Scotia; and as Islander Day in Prince Edward Island.

In Canada more generally, the third Monday in February has also been celebrated as Heritage Day, though this is not as an official holiday. This “Heritage Day” is observed by some in celebration of the country’s collective his-

the word also entered the historical stage.”

Other early papers include the Dutch Courante uyt Italien, Duytslandt, &c., founded by Caspar van Hilten in 1618. This Amsterdam newspaper was the first periodical to appear in folio- rather than quarto-size.

As a center of world trade, Amsterdam quickly became home to many foreign newspapers as well, that were originally styled in much the same way as Van Hilten’s publication, sometimes even having a similar name.

North America

In Boston in 1690, Benjamin Harris published Publick Occurrences Both Forreign and Domestick. This is considered the first newspaper in the American colonies even though only one edition was published before the paper was suppressed by the colonial officials, possibly due to censorship and control issues. It followed the two-column format and was a single sheet, printed on both sides. In 1704, the governor allowed The Boston News-Letter, a weekly, to be published, and it became the first continuously published newspaper in the colonies. Soon after, weekly papers began publishing in New York and Philadelphia.

The second English-language newspaper in the Americas was the Weekly Jamaica Courant. These early newspapers followed the British format and were usually four pages long. They mostly carried news from Britain and content depended on the editor’s interests. In 1783, the Pennsylvania Evening

Post became the first American daily.

India

Robert Knight (1825–1890), founded two English language daily papers, The Statesman in Calcutta, and The Times of India in Bombay. In 1860, he bought out the Indian shareholders, merged with rival Bombay Standard, and started India’s first news agency. It wired news dispatches to papers across India and became the Indian agent for Reuters news service.

In 1861, he changed the name from the Bombay Times and Standard to The Times of India. Knight fought for a press free of prior restraint or intimidation, frequently resisting the attempts by governments, business interests, and cultural spokesmen and led the paper to national prominence.

Knight’s papers promoted Indian self-rule and often criticized the policies of the British Raj. By 1890, the company employed more than 800 people and had a sizeable circulation in India and the British Empire.

In 1766, a Dutch adventurer, William Bolts, proposed starting a newspaper for the English audience in Calcutta. He was deported by the East India Company, before his plans could come to fruition.

Modern newspapers since 1800 Technology

In 1814 The Times acquired a printing press capable of making 1,100 impressions per hour. It was soon adapted to print on both

what’s Family Day (Canada)?

tory, architecture, and cultural heritage.

In Quebec and the three territories, the third Monday in February is a regular working day. The same is true in Newfoundland and Labrador except in Corner Brook, where it is an unnamed civic holiday. In Yukon, however, one Friday in February (typically the last/near-last Friday)—rather than a Monday—is deemed Yukon Heritage Day.

Two-thirds of Canadians live in a province that observes a February statutory holiday. Some provinces have changed the observance day of their holiday to match the other provinces. As Family Day is not a

federal statutory holiday, employees of the federal government (such as public servants and postal workers) work on this day in all provinces. The timing of Family Day also coincides with the United States’ holiday of Presidents’ Day (also known as Washington’s Birthday, among other names).

British Columbia

In British Columbia, a private member’s bill to establish Family Day on the third Monday in February was introduced in the BC Legislature by Liberal MLA Bob Chisholm in 1994 but failed to pass. Although there were renewed calls to introduce Family Day in

sides of a page at once. This innovation made newspapers cheaper and thus available to a larger part of the population.

In 1830, the first penny press newspaper came to the market: Lynde M. Walter’s Boston Transcript.Penny press papers cost about one-sixth the price of other newspapers and appealed to a wider audience. Newspaper editors exchanged copies and freely reprinted material. By the late 1840s, telegraph networks linked major and minor cities and permitted overnight news reporting.

The invention of wood pulp papermaking in the 1840s significantly reduced the cost of newsprint, having previously been made from rags. Increasing literacy in the 19th century also increased the size of newspapers’ audiences.

The Times

The paper began in 1785 and in 1788 was renamed The Times. In 1817, Thomas Barnes was appointed general editor; he was a political radical, a sharp critic of parliamentary hypocrisy and a champion of freedom of the press. Under Barnes and his successor in 1841, John Thadeus Delane, the influence of The Times rose to great heights, especially in politics and amongst the City of London. It spoke for reform. Peter Fraser and Edward Sterling were two noted journalists, and gained for The Times the pompous/satirical nickname ‘The Thunderer’ (from “We thundered out the other day an article on social and political reform.”) The paper was the first in the world to reach mass circulation due to its early adoption of the steam-driven rotary printing press. It was also the first properly national newspaper, as it was distributed via the new steam railways to rapidly growing concentrations of urban populations across the country. This helped ensure the profitability of the paper and its growing influence...

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/

BC between 2007 and 2011, it was opposed by the BC Chamber of Commerce and the government of Gordon Campbell.

On January 10, 2011, while running for the leadership of the BC Liberal Party, Christy Clark proposed establishing a Family Day holiday on the third Monday of February. Clark subsequently became premier; the Speech from the Throne, delivered on October 3, 2011, said that BC would observe its first Family Day on February 18, 2013.

In 2012, a two-week consultation process was held in order to determine if British Columbians preferred the holiday to fall on the second or third Monday in February.

On May 28, 2012, it was announced that Family Day would be observed on the second Monday in February each year, starting February 11, 2013.

As this did not coincide with Presidents Day, it also provided two consecutive long weekends for tourism, particularly at BC’s many ski resorts.

On February 9, 2018, the Government of British Columbia announced that Family Day would be moved to the 3rd Monday in February in 2019, to align their holiday with the rest of those provinces who observe it on that Monday.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/

Trudeau

downplays liberal divisions on israel-Hamas war, NDP calls for firmer stance

OTTAWA - Diverse views in the Liberal party are a source of strength, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau insisted Thursday as questions persisted about caucus discord over the government’s policy on the Israel-Hamas war. “We have a large number of Muslim MPs. We have a large number of Jewish MPs,” Trudeau said at a news conference in Winnipeg.“The kinds of conversations that go on within our party are not always easy, but they reflect the diversity of conversations happening across the country.”

Trudeau was responding to a question about a CBC News report detailing a leaked phone call between a constituent and Rob Oliphant, a parliamentary secretary to Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly.

In that call, Oliphant told the constituent that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is “hurting Israel,” CBC reported. He also criticized the government’s communication around a genocide allegation

against Israel at the International Court of Justice and its decision to pause funding for a UN agency as it investigates staff members accused of involvement in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. On Parliament Hill, NDP foreign-affairs critic Heather McPherson said Oliphant should be brave enough to say such things publicly. He told CBC he didn’t say anything on the call he would not be willing to defend in public.

Asked whether Oliphant should resign, McPherson said the Toronto MP “is the only one saying the right things, albeit privately.”

“I don’t understand how this government can have people within their own caucus that are calling for us to adhere to international law, to adhere to the rules of humanitarian law, and the government’s not listening,” she said.

“It feels very much to me like a very Liberal thing to say one thing publicly and to say a different thing privately.”

The prime minister did not specifically refer

to Oliphant on Thursday.

World leaders, he said, are actively discussing how best to respond if Israel proceeds with a major offensive in the southern Gaza city where most of the population has taken shelter. Trudeau said in French that he is “very preoccupied” by the situation as it unfolds. The planned offensive in the city of Rafah was discussed in a conversation between the prime minister and a member of Israel’s war cabinet on Thursday. A readout of Trudeau’s call with minister Benny Gantz said the prime minister expressed concern about the “severe humanitarian implications” for civilians in the area.

In a joint statement late Wednesday with the prime ministers of Australia and New Zealand, Trudeau said an Israeli military offensive into the southern city of Rafah would be “catastrophic.” The message marked Canada’s strongest language yet on Israel’s conduct in the Gaza Strip, more than four months into

its war with Hamas. “There is growing international consensus. Israel must listen to its friends and it must listen to the international community,” the statement said. “The protection of civilians is paramount and a requirement under international humanitarian law. Palestinian civilians cannot be made to pay the price of defeating Hamas.”another 250 hostage. Source: ctvnews.ca

B.C. has gained 708 family doctors over the last year. Here’s where they’re working

Last week, B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix announced that 708 more doctors are practising longitudinal family medicine in

the province this year than last year.

This week, his office shared statistics on where those net new family doctors are plying their trade. Of the 708, the largest portion – 211 – are practising in the Vancouver Coastal Health region. Island Health saw the next-largest net gain, with 179 more family doctors this year than last.

Totals grew by 138 in Interior Health and 132 in Fraser Health, while Northern Health saw a net increase of 35 family doctors.

The remaining 13 of the 708 are classified in the Health Ministry’s statistics as coming

from an “unknown health authority.” Asked for clarification of what this means, the ministry said in an email to CTV News that these family doctors have service contracts with the province that see them fly in and out of remote communities, primarily in the Northern Health region.

‘A triumphant thing’

During his announcement last week, Dix attributed the increase in physicians practising family medicine to the province’s new payment model, which took effect last year.

“I think that is a success that is not only

significant in terms of doctors choosing the new model … but doctors choosing to practice family medicine in the community,” he said. Earlier this week, B.C. Family Doctors president Dr. Tahmeena Ali told CTV Morning Live the transition away from a fee-for-service model has helped retain family doctors and attract new ones, calling the effects of the change “a triumphant thing.” The statistics the ministry shared Friday, however, suggest this triumph is not being felt equally across the province’s five health regions. Source: bc.ctvnews.ca

Man shot during attempted jewelry store robbery in Surrey’s Guildford area

Mounties are investigating an attempted robbery in Surrey’s Guildford neighbourhood that left one man seriously injured Sunday evening. Officers found the victim after responding to a report of gunfire at a jewelry store near 101 Avenue and 152 Street, close to Guildford Town Centre, at around 6:20 p.m. Mounties are investigating an attempted robbery in Surrey’s Guildford neighbourhood that left one man seriously injured Sunday evening.

Officers found the victim after responding to a report of gunfire at a jewelry store near 101 Avenue and 152 Street, close to Guildford Town Centre, at around 6:20 p.m.

“One person was shot by the suspects, who had fled the area prior to police arrival,” Surrey RCMP said in a news release Monday.

The victim was hospitalized with injuries that are not life-threatening, authorities said. There were no more RCMP in the area Monday morning, but broken glass and what ap-

3 armed youth arrested after robbery at Tsawwassen Mills

Delta police say three armed youth were arrested after a robbery at a Tsawwassen Mills store. Police shared details about the Feb. 13 incident on Friday, saying one young man distracted store staff while two others “seized the opportunity to steal various items.”

When an officer responded to the reported theft, they found the three suspects, who attempted to run away. One suspect was apprehended “on the spot” and had “multiple stolen items, bear spray and an imitation firearm,” police said.

“Further investigation led the officer to a discarded bag linked to the other suspects,” Del-

ta police’s news release said. “The bag, upon search, was noted to contain additional stolen property and a second imitation firearm.” The two other suspects were found later in a residential area and police recovered a third imitation firearm. All three suspects are from Surrey and were released to their parents “pending further legal proceedings.” Delta police said they’re recommending charges against all three of theft under $5,000 and obstructing a police officer. Investigators are also recommending a robbery charge against two.

Source:bc.ctvnews.ca

peared to be blood stains could be seen at a strip mall.

Surrey RCMP said officers spent Sunday evening canvassing the neighbourhood and speaking to witnesses, but asked anyone else with information that could assist in their investigation to come forward. Authorities are also looking for dash cam video captured near 101 Avenue and 152 Street between 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday.

Source: bc.ctvnews.ca

M. Naseer Pirzada

ANJUMAN-E-JAMALI, VANCOUVER

ANJUMAN-E-JAMALI, VANCOUVER

February 20, 2024

ANJUMAN-E-JAMALI,VANCOUVER

The Miracle Media Group Inc.,

February 20 2024 (Editor in The Miracle Media Group Inc., Surrey, BC V3V 7Z8

February 20, 2024

Re.: Miracle Media’s 23rd Anniversary

Re.: Miracle Media’s 23rd Anniversary

M.Naseer Pirzada (Editor in-chief) The Miracle Media Group Inc, Surrey, BC V3V 7Z8

Dear Sir,

Dear Sir,

On behalf of the Dawoodi Bohra community of Greater Vancouver, I am honoured to extend our Heartiest Congratulations on the occasion of the 23rd Anniversary of your publication, “Miracle Media”.

On behalf of the Dawoodi Bohra community of Greater Vancouver, I am honoured to extend our Heartiest

Congratulations on the occasion of the 23rd Anniversary of your publication, “Miracle Media”.

I take this opportunity to commend you and your team for the outstanding outreach activities and social services performed; all of this supported by your lofty values of “Bringing Harmony to all the Communities”

I take this opportunity to commend you and your team for the outstanding outreach activities and social services performed; all of this supported by your lofty values of “Bringing Harmony to all the Communities”

The Dawoodi Bohra community shares many of the values in common with Miracle Media, and we look forward to working together with you in areas of mutual concerns where we can affect meaningful improvements in the broader society.

The Dawoodi Bohra community shares many of the values in common with Miracle Media, and we look forward to working together with you in areas of mutual concerns where we can affect meaningful improvements in the broader society.

Yours sincerely,

Yours sincerely,

Shk. Huzeifa Aftab

Shk. Huzeifa Aftab

President and Aamil Saheb, Anjuman-e-Jamali, Vancouver Jamaat

email: vancouvermasool@alvazarat.org

1-236-863-5253

President and Aamil Saheb, Anjuman-e-Jamali, Vancouver Jamaat email: vancouvermasool@alvazarat.org

www.canada.thedawoodibohras.com/vancouver

1-236-863-5253

By: Itrath Syed

For the last 23 years the Miracle newspaper has been working to unite and build the local Muslim community.

My father, Marhum Azhar Syed, was always a friend and supporter of this important community institution. He was on the

editorial board for many years and always was quick to call and offer his sincere opinions, his praise, and his critique of every issue. He was always honest with both Nusrat uncle and Pirzada uncle because he valued the work they did. In later years, when he was ill and his declining vision meant that he

could not read the paper himself, my mother would read every issue to him from beginning to end. In his memory, we continue to support this institution and pray for its ongoing success. May it continue to inform all of us and highlight all the important events in our growing community.

By: Khadija Nadeem, Youth Columnist and Editorial Board Member, 17 years old

Working with the Miracle has been such a privilege and is an opportunity I appreciate so much.

Starting off as a regular reader and evolving into the primary columnist for the youth

section as well as amember of the editorial board, I’m incredibly grateful to have been writing with this team for 7 years. Writing has always been a passion of mine and this position has aided me in improving so many of my skills. Not to mention the safe space that The Miracle has provided to Muslims and Pakistanis across British Co-

ISyed Riaz Khan, hailing from the princely state of Hyderabad, embarked on a transformative journey to become a renowned Immigration Consultant. Armed with a Bachelor of Science from APAU University, Hyderabad, and a master’s from the University of Guelph, Ontario. After mar-

rying Shahana Khan, I arrived in Canada in February 1971. Upon completing my master’s degree, I served as a Police Officer in the city of Don mills, demonstrating commitment to public service. Also, worked as a Country Sales Manager for the largest furniture manufacturing company from the United States Steelcase. In 1994, prior to regulatory bodies’ establishment, I transitioned into the immigration field, offering invaluable guidance. Since 2003, I have owned and operated I CAN HELP IMMIGRATION Services in Surrey, British Co-

lumbia, giving them the chance to see a reflection of themselves in print media and hear and read about the news that they want to see. I hope that I can continue writing with The Miracle as well aswork with the team to help develop the newspaper further. InshAllah, I hope for many more years of success to come.

lumbia, specializing in applications, including PR, Family sponsorship, PNP, Study Permits, and visitor visas. I extend my expertise to individuals seeking immigration advice both within and outside Canada.

As a current member in good standing with the College of Immigration Consultants of Canada and the Canadian Association of Immigration Consultants, I uphold professional standards. My unwavering dedication to facilitating immigration processes reflects my commitment to serving others, making me a trusted ally in navigating Canada’s immigration landscape.

The Miracle Newspaper has been a cornerstone of English and Urdu journalism

for over two decades, offering insightful coverage of issues impacting the Muslim community locally and globally. With a commitment to fostering connection and understanding among diverse cultural groups, The Miracle has played a crucial role in creating a more inclusive society in our province. As the first bilingual newspaper serving the Muslim community, it has provided essential news and local events coverage, reflecting the strength of diversity and multiculturalism.

Congratulations to The Miracle on its 23rd anniversary, and here’s to many more years of success in serving our communities and province.

ICNA Vancouver Profile and Miracle 23rd Anniversary Felicitation

We congratulate Miracle News on completing 23 years of consecutive service to the Community and partnership with ICNA.

ICNA (Islamic Circle of North America) Vancouver is known for the Community Services and Mega Events, Food Bank, Women and Youth Camps and Workshops, Da’wah Booths, Family Events, Children Classes, Quiz Competitions and Fun activities to realize its objective to build an exemplary Canadian Muslim Community.

Who We Are?

ICNA Relief Canada is part of a global humanitarian relief and development organi-

zation responding to human suffering in emergency and disaster situations around the world. In addition to our emergency relief efforts, resulting from natural or humancaused catastrophes, we also maintain long term aid and development programs.

Who We Serve?

ICNA Relief Canada was established to serve the needs of fellow humans, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, class, location, religion, colour, cultural background, political affiliation, or social status. We are especially focused on countries in which the majority of their people live below the poverty line.

Where We Serve?

ICNA Relief Canada is globally engaged and our partners include small and large community support groups, national alliances, and international relief organizations.

Our Donors

ICNA Relief Canada’s programs and projects are funded mainly by individual donors like you, along with generous support and cooperation from other community organizations and Islamic centres across the country.

Become a Volunteer Today

Be a part of our amazing team, work for one of the 11 food banks across Canada to

serve those in need, strive to raise funds for humanitarian and relief causes, organize events, or help out in the office; anything helps! E-transfer donations via email: VANCOUVER@ICNACANADA.CA.

Write using the above email and we will get in touch with you. Visit: 209-7750 128 Street Surrey BC, V3W 0R6, Canada.

By: Abdul Ghaffar Ghaffari

It is a Miracle 23 years of hard work and keep going in any circumstances.

Congratulation on the 24 anniversaries of Miracle, our beloved news paper and true representative of Muslim community. I personally witnessed the birth of Miracle 23 years ago, Miracle founder Nusrat Hussain is good friend he worked hard to put all the pieces together and was able to start publishing, Mr. Pirzada took over Miracle in very beginning years and since than it is moving forward and

serving the community.

We must admire the love, enthusiasm, and dedication Mr. Pirzada showed and continue the printing of Miracle; it is a Miracle 23 years of hard work and keep going in any circumstances.

I am thankful to the team of Miracle and Mr. Pirzada printing my articles in Urdu section, Miracle is providing opportunity to many businesses in the community to advertise and improve their business ,cover-

ing almost all the events in the city and specially Muslim community events . Thanks again for Miracle team and Mr. Pirzada we pray for your success and good health , Keep going you are doing wonderful job .

Asad Syed, Miracle’s Writer and Activist

Islamic Relief has been dedicated to creating a compassionate and just world for the past 40 years. Since 1984, they have positively impacted over 120 million lives in 40 countries, aiding 3.4 million people in 2023 alone to alleviate suffering and combat poverty.

Today, Islamic Relief Worldwide is among the world’s largest relief and development charities. With operations in more than 40 countries.

Your Sadaqa, Zakat and donations helped fund over 176 projects in 2023,

• Sponsor 24,000 orphans

• Bring emergency humanitarian aid to 750,000 people

• Transform the lives of 1.9 million people through sustainable food, clean water and livelihoods

Islamic Relief’s 10-Year Strategy

Islamic Relief’s 10-year strategy (20232033) is rooted in the Maqasid Framework, inspired by Islamic faith and the Qur’an. Maqasid, meaning goals or purpose, underscores the sanctity of every individual’s life and dignity, prioritizing their rights to security, health, a sustainable environment, food, shelter, and clean water.

Over the next decade, Islamic Relief will leverage the Maqasid framework to address global challenges, emphasizing a stronger focus on:

• Reducing vulnerability to humanitarian crises

• Uplifting families and communities through food, health, education, and livelihoods

• Addressing global and local root causes of poverty

• Raising funds, growing resources, and building the Islamic Relief Family

• Increasing our capacity as an organization to deliver our purpose

With Ramadan around the corner, Islamic Relief in BC will holding five grand iftars to raise funds for orphans in Palestine.

If you are interested in attending, please contact Mujahid Ahmed 778-836-4922

Iftar dates and location: March 17th–Kelowna, March 21st–Vancouver March 23rd–Surrey, March 24th-Victoria March 29th–Abbotsford

Mayor Brenda locke’s first State of the City Address

Surrey, BC – In her first State of the City address, Mayor Brenda Locke outlined her vision to prepare Surrey to become a city of one million people. Surrey’s large land mass, which is the equivalent of Vancouver, Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam combined, gives it the advantage to accommodate growth in a number of sectors.

“Surrey will soon be the largest city in the province and is projected to reach one million people as early as 2042,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “Whether it be in the residential housing, entertainment, commercial or industrial sector, Surrey has the space to grow. As prominent new companies set up shop in Surrey and more post-secondary education options expand, my Council colleagues and I are laying the foundation to prepare our city for the opportunities of tomorrow by investing in the future today.”

The City of Surrey has launched a number of initiatives that will continue to raise the

city’s profile as the premier place to live, work or play in B.C.:

• A feasibility study on the development of a 12,000-seat stadium or arena in Surrey.

• The creation of two entertainment districts for City Centre and Cloverdale.

• $18 million in funding secured to create 370 new childcare spaces at 11 locations in Surrey by 2025.

• The relaunch of Innovation Boulevard to attract more cleantech, agritech and advanced manufacturing in Surrey.

• With 22% of the industrial land available in the region, Council is working to open an additional 340 acres in Campbell Heights.

• $105 million dollars approved for road infrastructure projects that include the widening of major and overburdened arterial routes such as 72nd Ave, 80th Ave and 132nd St. as well as the replace-

ment of the Nicomekl Bridge.

• Continued streamlining of the permitting process, which includes the introduction of the Development Inquiry Assistant. The virtual assistant uses advanced artificial intelligence technology that will allow the user quick and accurate responses to their query. Council’s initiatives are complemented by the continued robust investment in Surrey by the private sector and senior levels of government. Over 5,200 building permits were issued last year with another 64,405 housing units in the approval pipeline. Prominent local and multinational companies, such as Nanak Foods, CTK Bio Canada and Delta Controls have opened or expanded opera-

tions in Surrey, bringing a wealth of new jobs to Surrey. Along with KPU and SFU, UBC will now be the third major university to offer programming in Surrey. The new Surrey-Langley SkyTrain and a new hospital with a cancer centre have been approved and are waiting for construction to begin.

From: Amy Jugpal

Communications & Media Relations Lead Office of the Mayor, City of Surrey

Doug McCallum Slams Brenda locke’s “Short-Sighted” Stadium Plan, Demands Bold Vision for Surrey’s Future

In a recent statement, Doug McCallum sharply criticized Brenda Locke’s proposal for a 12,000-seat stadium in Surrey, labeling it as “short-sighted” and “out of touch” with the city’s potential. Brenda Locke’s State of the City Address was nothing more than empty promises. McCallum advocates for a more ambitious project that reflects Surrey’s stature as a burgeoning world-class city. “Surrey deserves a facility that mirrors its global aspirations and dynamic growth, not a small minded out of touch lacklustre plan that undermines our potential,” McCallum stated. He condemned Locke’s vision, asserting, “Surrey is not just a sub-

urb of Vancouver; it is the city of tomorrow, ready to host the world.” Highlighting Surrey’s expected population growth — to surpass Vancouver by 2029 and reach over one million by 2042 — McCallum argues for infrastructure that can accommodate major international events. “To prepare for our future, we must aim for a stadium with at least a 40,000-seat capacity, meeting the minimum requirement for hosting FIFA games,” he emphasized. “The location of the new stadium should be at 168th and Fraser Highway on city-owned land next to the new SkyTrain station to reduce car dependence,” said Doug McCallum.

“My fear is that Brenda Locke is going to cancel the plans to build a new Newton Community Centre that has been earmarked to be built on newly purchased land and redirect those funds towards her vanity pet project to build her small-minded out of touch stadium,” said Councillor Mandeep Nagra. In conclusion, McCallum calls on Surrey to adopt a grander vision that matches its growth and ambition, emphasizing the need for a world-class stadium that can serve as a cornerstone for the city’s future.

Media Contact:

Doug McCallum

when could universal basic income start in Canada?

Advocates say a universal basic income program could make a difference in helping people struggling in precarious and lowincome jobs. But critics wonder if it will effectively tackle the problem of poverty and if Canada could even afford a program.

The concept is controversial, though the program has recently gained attention in a few provinces. Newfoundland and Labrador announced in November 2023 a three-year program for residents aged 60 to 64, which will provide the equivalent of the federal seniors’ benefits, The Canadian Press reported.

“The social determinants of health have a far greater impact on well-being than the health-care system itself,” said Newfoundland Premier Andrew Furey, an orthopedic surgeon. “I’m proud to say that as a government, we are placing a heightened focus on the social determinants of health, both in our spending and our policy directives.”

A report in November revealed details of a possible five-year guaranteed basic income program, which would provide income that’s 85 per cent of the government-determined

official poverty line in Prince Edward Island. As well, the Senate is studying Bill S233(opens in a new tab), which was introduced by Sen. Kim Pate in 2021, to create a national framework for a guaranteed livable basic income. If passed, the bill would require the minister of finance to develop a national framework to provide everyone over the age of 17 in Canada, including temporary workers, permanent residents and refugee claimants, with access to a guaranteed livable basic income(opens in a new tab).

As Canada’s Senate studies the bill, CTVNews.ca spoke with experts on the prospects of the program in Canada.

What is a guaranteed basic income?

While Wayne Lewchuk, a professor emeritus in the school of labour studies and the department of economics at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont., couldn’t guess when a guaranteed basic income program could start in Canada, he believes Canada can afford one. He said a guaranteed basic income is a minimum payment each individual would receive on a regular basis without any

restrictions.

The Parliamentary Budget Officer estimated a national guaranteed basic income(opens in a new tab) would cost about $88 billion in 2022-23. “I think to be frank, they can’t not afford to implement basic income because we’re at a point on the development of our economy or society where an increasing number of people are being left behind, and we need to provide them with the supports which allow them to be fully functional citizens in our society,” Lewchuk said in a Zoom interview with CTVNews.ca.

Leslie Boehm, adjunct professor at the Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto, adds that the basic income would require setting an income floor that no one will go below. “So if people go below, you provide that money for them in order to make sure they’re at that minimum income,” he said in a phone interview with CTVNews.ca.

Source: ctvnews.ca/

Victoria airport security screeners fired after federal agency says they failed to ‘protect the travelling public’

Three dozen workers at the Victoria International Airport, including 27 security screeners, have been fired after a federal investigation found “multiple instances” of improper security screening at the site. The firings last week were the result of a complaint, followed by a weeks-long probe into security screening at the airport, according to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority. The investigation began in December and culminated with the termination of 27 screening officers and nine other employees in the screening depart-

ment, according to the federal agency and the union representing the screeners. “The investigation identified multiple instances of incomplete screening at a non-passenger checkpoint,” CATSA said in a statement to CTV News. ”The findings indicate that the personnel involved did not fulfil their core responsibility to protect the travelling public. As such, CATSA commenced its process to review the continued certification of these individuals as screening officers and advised the employer that their services could not be billed to CATSA

under the current circumstances.” But the union contends the federal agency improperly interfered with the security company’s own employee review process by pulling the funding and triggering the mass layoff. Allied Universal is the subcontracted company that provides pre-boarding screening at all public airports in B.C. and the Yukon. The company did not respond to a CTV News request for comment on the layoffs. This story will be updated if a response is received.

Source: bc.ctvnews.ca/victoria

Miracle Caring Community since 23 Years

Alhamdulillah, it is a superb occasion in the Miracle Media Group Inc.’s history as it has completed its 23 years -a long journey that began on Feb 23rd, 2001.

I want to thank the supporters and great well-wishers of ‘The Miracle’ for providing continuous support through advertisements of their businesses, sharing their thoughts in writing with our readers, especially Mr. Shams Jilani, Mr. Aslam Hayat, Mrs. Shamim Karim, Mrs. Alam Ara, Mrs. Asma Shums, Mrs. Nafisa Siddiqi, Mrs. Safia Imtiaz(from Karachi), Mrs. Moquita Waseem(from Saudi Ara-

From the pen of the Founding Chief- Editor of ‘The Miracle’.

Sqn. Ldr. Nusrat Hussain (R)

Afriend of mine in late 2000 suggested starting a Muslim newspaper. With a diploma and a degree in Journalism under my belt and my writing passion,

bia), Mr. Hanif Tarar, Mr. Asad Syed, youngster Ms. Khadija Nadeem, , and many others.

The Miracle Media is proud that have the biggest Writers Team of ten (10) Urdu and English languages writers despite any local Community Paper in BC.

The Miracle newspaper aims to provide a broad overview of the world through articles and images. Over the years, we have covered thousands of events from all communities to keep up with our slogan, “Bringing Harmony to all Communities”. We are also proud that for those who are not Muslims, our Newspaper serves as a gateway to learning more about Islam and the local and international Muslim community. The Miracle cares for and respects all community members irrespective of ethnicity and faith. Our journey over the past 23 years has been quite an experience.

On Feb 23, 2001, Mr. Nusrat Hussain launched the first Muslim Newspaper on a biweekly basis and his family’s and his day and night struggle gave a voice to the community. While I joined as Managing Editor in 2002, I was handed over the responsibility to run this show alone from Jan 2007.

How successful my entire team and I have been in achieving these tasks?

Well, Miracle’s readers are the best judges.

The Miracle became synonymous with events for much of its publication life. Allhudulilla, time to time at its Anniversary, Miracle Media distribut-

ed Awards to its Writers, Advertisers, and Community Members who served in the community for many years. In the future, our mission is to continue the award distribution tradition. ‘The Miracle’ Newspaper is the first BC Muslim biweekly & bilingual (English & Urdu) newspaper, which is a Member of the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC). It has been serving the BC Community for 23 years. The Miracle is a household newspaper of the local Muslim community and is popular in other local & ethnic communities as well. Its availability on the Website: www. miraclenews.com, Facebook (the Miracle Newspaper), Twitter, (https://twitter.com/Miraclenews1), and at two other digital printing service providers, “Press Reader” at https://www.pressreader.com/canada/the-miracle/latest and “Magzter “ at https://www.magzter.com/CA/Miracle-Media-Group-Inc in all over the world. We are proud that Alhamdulillah’s the Miracle is the only one in the BC Muslim Print Media market which is non-stop a bi-weekly publication during the Pandemic 2019-2022 and after the Covid crisis till this day. Like other businesses, since a few years has hurt Miracle deeply as our advertisers are struggling but we aim to carry on with our limited resources and stay with our readers, writers, and advertisers during this difficult time. The others competent Newspapers are now running on monthly basis with very limited 16-20 pages.

Miraculous 23 Year Journey

I was compelled to take up the project. With limited finances as well as business experience in any field, I took the challenge of launching the first Muslim newspaper in B.C., and the first copy of ‘The Miracle’ was published on 23 rd February 2001. ‘The Miracle’ soon became a household item benefitting Muslim businesses and political activity. ‘The Miracle’ served to promote different businesses, community events, and concerns. There were many successful Muslims in different fields of business as well as some important government and public offices. There were also different religious, welfare, and social work organizations serving all Muslims as a community. It was a regular feature to hold grand community events celebrating Eid- parties, national holidays, and many activities of getting

together under one roof. In an extremely friendly diverse Canadian society, there were many mediums of mass communication like newspapers, radio, and television owned by other communities living in the Vancouver mainland area. It resulted in a perception of a nonexistent Muslim community to the mainstream public of British Columbia. In absence of Muslim media, any concern about Muslim issues was not conveyed in a desired manner to the mainstream public of Canada. The Miracle became an independent strong voice to publish issues of Muslim concern within the community as well as outside. There was a strong reaction by the right-wing Muslim community when religious dogmas and taboos were challenged in The Miracle. It became a common practice by the mem-

Feel free to comment on this issue about Miracle’s Historical 23 years journey, as your concerns and suggestions are highly appreciated for improving our quality in the future. I will not be honest if I do not appreciate the efforts of my Miracle’s family are Ms. Khadija, Ms. Misbah, Arslan, Shahrukh, Sabeeh, and others. Keep up the good work not only for the Miracle but for the Community.

I thank everyone who took the time and sent their messages at Miracle’s 23rd Anniversary, including MP Sukh Dhaliwal, MLA, and Minister Hon. Harry Bains, MLA.

In the end, I can say that the Miracle is the only bi-weekly newspaper, who cares each Community Associations and members, but unfortunately response/feedback from community is not as Miracle deserves. Think about it.

May Allah (SWT) accept your prayers for our success and may He help us in serving the community… Ameen Jazaakumu Allahu Khairan.

Mohammad Naseer Pirzada (Editor-in-Chief) Miracle

bers belonging to the extreme right-wing of stealing and throw in garbage many bundles of the newspaper placed inside the mosques. People having a balanced approach respecting Canadian laws of freedom of speech confronted the extreme ideas. This brought some commotion as well as a platform to discuss different ideas was provided by the Miracle. We published every letter and article without any prejudice. The importance of newspapers in the present era is reduced many times. Reading a paperback newspaper is the last source of information or interest for a majority of people. Thanks to my friend and a dedicated Naseer Pirzada that the newspaper is in business today and celebrating its 23rd aniversary today.

I wish you all the best Pir Saheb. May Allah Paak accepts your great effort of continuing to serve the Muslim community of B.C.

Long Live ‘The Miracle’.

Common Sense Conservatives Bring Tougher Penalties For Career Car Thieves

Ottawa, ON – Randy Hoback, Conservative Associate Shadow Minister for International Trade, introduced Private Member’s Bill C-379, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (motor vehicle theft). Bill C-379 seeks to implement tougher penalties for repeat car thieves across Canada by bringing a mandatory minimum of three years in jail for those who have stolen a motor vehicle three times.

“After eight years of Trudeau’s soft-on-crime policies and easy bail, car theft in Canada has increased by 34%. In Toronto, car thefts

are up 300% and they are up 100% in Montreal,” said MP Hoback.

“Canadians feel less safe in their communities because of Trudeau’s reckless policies which keep career car thieves on the streets.”

In addition to increasing the minimum sentence in the case of a third or subsequent motor vehicle theft, Bill C-379 will provide primary consideration to the fact that the offence was committed for the benefit of, at the direction of, or in association with a criminal organization. “This get-rich-quick scheme for violent criminals and gangs has

made Canadians less safe and is costing up to $130 extra a year in increased insurance costs. This is yet another burden on top of Trudeau’s inflationary carbon tax and reckless debt that Canadians shouldn’t have to put up with,” said MP Hoback. “Canadians deserve a government that catches car theft and puts repeat career car thieves in jail. Our common sense Conservative plan will stop car theft and bring home safer streets.” From: olobcocom@parl.gc.ca

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines: who needs it, how it works ?

Who needs the HPV vaccine?

How many doses? What about side effects? Get answers to these questions and more.

By

Mayo Clinic Staff

Human papillomavirus, also called HPV, is spread by sexual activity.

Some strains of HPV cause genital warts. Other HPV strains can cause cancers.

Most of the time, the body can find and clear out HPV. But if the virus stays in the body for a long time, it can cause cancer. Getting vaccinated against HPV helps prevent cancer in men and women.

Here’s what you need to know about the HPV vaccine.

What does the HPV vaccine do?

The HPV vaccine protects against genital warts and most cases of cervical cancer. It protects against cancer of the vagina, vulva, penis or anus caused by HPV. The HPV vaccine also protects against mouth, throat, head and neck cancers caused by HPV.

The vaccine gives the body a safe way to build immune system awareness of some HPV strains. This means the body has an easier time clearing out those strains of the virus if a person catches them later.

Who is the HPV vaccine for and

when should it

The Gardasil 9 vaccine is ap proved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administra tion (FDA). It can be given to people age 9 and older. This vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests routine HPV vaccination at age 11 or 12.

The ideal age for vaccination is before a person is sexually active. Once a person gets HPV, the vaccine may not be as effective. That’s because the vaccine’s goal is to prevent a new infection. If a person has the virus, the vaccine may not help the body clear out the vaccine.

should get the HPV vaccine. hould not get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine isn’t given during pregnancy.

The HPV vaccine is not recommended if a person had an allergic reaction after the first HPV shot, or if a person has severe, life-threatening

Also, people who are moderately or severely ill should wait until they feel better to get vaccinatedfor HPV.

Overall, the effects tend to be mild.

The most common side effects of HPV vaccines include soreness, swelling or redness at the injection site.

Sometimes dizziness or fainting occurs after the shot. Staying seated for 15 minutes after the shot can lower the risk of fainting. Headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue or weakness also may occur.

The CDC and the FDA continue to monitor the vaccines for unusual or severe problems.

Research has shown that receiving the vaccine at a young age isn’t linked to an earlier start of sexual activity.

People younger than age 15 can be vaccinated with two doses, 6 to 12 months apart.

People who start the vaccine series later, at ages 15 through 26, should get three doses of the vaccine. These shots are given over six months.

The CDC suggests catch-up HPV vaccinations for all people through age 26 who aren’t fully vaccinated.

The FDA approved the use of Gardasil 9 for males and females ages 9 to 45. If you’re ages 27 to 45, discuss your risks with your healthcare team. Together you can decide if you

Does the HPV vaccine offer benefits if you’re already sexually active?

People who are sexually active should talk with their healthcare team about the benefits of getting an HPV vaccine.

Most people catch HPV soon after they become sexually active. But even if you have one strain of HPV, you might still benefit from the vaccine. It can protect you from other strains that you don’t yet have. But none of the vaccines can treat an existing HPV infection. The vaccines protect you only from specific strains of HPV you don’t have. Does the HPV vaccine carry any health risks or side effects?

The HPV vaccine has been found to be safe in many studies.

Is the HPV vaccine required for a child to go to school?

The HPV vaccine is part of the routine childhood vaccines schedule. Each state in the U.S. decides which vaccines from that schedule are needed for school attendance.

Do women who’ve received the HPV vaccine still need to have Pap tests?

Yes. The HPV vaccine doesn’t replace Pap tests. Screening for cervical cancer with regular Pap tests starting at age 21 is an essential part of preventive healthcare.

Get medical attention right away if you notice any symptoms of cervical cancer. Some symptoms are vaginal bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause; pelvic pain; or pain during sex.

Source:mayoclinic.org

Black mould: How dangerous is it in the home and how can it be treated?

By James Gregory & Tim Dodd BBC News

Exposure to mould can cause respiratory illnesses, allergies and asthma, and can sometimes be fatal.

In 2020, two-year-old Awaab Ishak died after prolonged exposure to mould in his home in Rochdale.

Under new government proposals, dubbed “Awaab’s law”, social housing landlords in England could be forced to repair mouldy properties much more quickly.

What is black mould?

Mould - sometimes referred to using the American spelling mold - is a microscopic fungus that grows in damp places.

Mould spores are found everywhere, and are released in their thousands into the atmosphere. Signs of mould at home include fuzzy black, white or green patches on the walls, and a damp and musty smell.

How dangerous is black mould?

People living with mould are more likely to suffer from respiratory illnesses, infections, allergies or asthma.

Inhaling or touching the spores that mould

releases into the air can cause an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and a skin rash.

Mould can also trigger asthma attacks and cause coughing, wheezing and breathlessness.

Each year, the NHS in England spends an estimated £1.4bn on treating illnesses associated with living in cold or damp housing, according to building research body BRE.

Those more at risk from mould include the elderly, children and babies, as well as people with existing respiratory illnesses and some skin problems.

Rochdale Coroners Office Mould in Awaab Ishak’s homeRochdale Coroners Office

Two-year-old Awaab Ishak died from a respiratory condition caused by exposure to mould in his home

What causes mould in houses and how can it be treated?

Condensation is the leading cause of mould in homes across the UK.

It most commonly occurs in parts of the home where there are high moisture levels: bathrooms, kitchens, and around windows. When air cools, water vapour forms into

water droplets as it comes into contact with surfaces in the home that are below a temperature known as the dew point. These surfaces can include uninsulated external walls or windows.

If left untreated, the surface can become damp and create the conditions for mould to grow.

Older and poorly insulated properties are more prone to this.

Mould can also be caused by daily tasks which create excess moisture such as showering, cooking and drying washing indoors. Taking shorter showers and wiping down surfaces afterwards can help, as can improving ventilation, and opening kitchen windows or using an extractor fan when cooking.

It is also important to check for leaky pipes or gutters which can make the problem worse What rights do tenants have if their

home has mould?

Private and social landlords have a responsibility to make sure homes are safe and in good repair.

In private and social rental properties, it is the landlord’s responsibility to fix a mould problem which is due to poor maintenance, according to the housing charity Shelter.

If the mould is so bad that your home becomes unfit for habitation, then you could be classed as homeless and entitled to emergency accommodation.

But landlords may not be responsible if there is evidence a tenant has not been ventilating the home correctly. Source:bbc.com/news

let’s welcome this lunar New Year, a new beginning with open hearts

Fairs, festivals and events bring people together to celebrate traditions, enjoy arts and entertainment, and connect with family, friends, and neighbours.

Like many parts of our economy, the events sector has been heavily impacted by the hardships of the last few years. Whether it’s to rebuild events after years of the pandemic, the rising cost of hosting events due to inflation, or the devastation of last year’s wildfires, our events sector needs our help.

Our New Democrat government is providing $15 million in one-time grants to eligible events through the Fairs, Festivals and Events fund. These events are an incredible contribution to our communities that not

only generate and boost our local economies, but also bring so much joy to all of us.

Applications are being accepted until February 25. If you know of a local event that could use support, please encourage them to apply here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/ content/tourism-immigration/tourismresources/tourism-funding-programs/fairsfestivals-events-fund

This week we also announced support for more than 220 B.C. musicians and music companies, to help grow the music industry. The grants will not only support B.C. artists to create new work and develop their careers, but they will also help promote more business activity in B.C., fostering development,

innovation, and partnerships. That means more opportunities for B.C. artists and more jobs for people throughout the province. Overall, it was a great week for arts and culture here in Surrey-Panorama! Let’s welcome this Lunar New Year, a new beginning with open hearts, gratitude, and

excitement for the adventures ahead. Premier David Eby celebrated and connected with Asian communities. The Year of the Dragon is an auspicious one, with hope, love, health, and prosperity. The dragon is considered a symbol of power, strength, and good fortune. From: Jinny Sims, MLA Office

NOTARIZATIONS

Certified true copies

Affidavits

Statutory Declarations

Travel Consent Letters

Insurance loss declarations

Passport Applications

Proof of Identity

Notarization of Signatures

Independent Legal Advice

All other Forms and Documents

PERSONAL PLANNING

Wills

Power of Attorney

Indian Power of Attorney

Pakistan Power of Attorney Representation Agreements

Advance Directives

REAL ESTATE

Purchasing a Home

Selling a Home

Refinancing/Mortgages

Property Title Transfers

Manufactured Homes

Drafting Contracts

Builder’s Liens

Lease Agreements

Covenants

with 2-5-10 years New Home Warranty.

Luxury with this Brand-New over 8000 sq ft lot, 7-bed, 7-bath 4200 Sq Ft + built home. Discover the pinnacle of sophisticated living in Cloverdale. Turn your dream home in Reality. High Ceiling, Grand Entry The Open-concept main floor is perfect for entertaining, featuring a great room, chef’s kitchen, and a convenient spice kitchen. Radiant in-floor heating adds comfort throughout, Central Air Condition, Security Camera’s, Upstairs 4 beds and 4 baths offer spacious living + Huge Private Deck (480 Sq Ft). The Main Floor Boasts a 2-bedroom legal suite and a 1-bedroom suite. Home has stainless steel appliances throughout and 3 laundries.

Great Family Home - This 5 bedroom 3 Full Washrooms, 6000 Sq Ft flat leveled lot, Fenced backyard, home perfect for Entertainment or Gardening, Extra Storage Area. It also has a separate entry 2 bedrooms rental suite. Bright Living Room, Dining Area, Kitchen with Back Slash. Newer Paint, Newer Laminate in Main Floor Bedrooms & Kitchen, Newer Garage Doors. Central location, close to schools, transit, shopping and very easy access to Hwy 1! Open House Feb 10/11 2-4pm

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Bullay Shah academy of Canada

Pir Afzal Ahmed Naqshbandi

Friday Prayer at 1:30 PM (in Summer & Winter) We invite brothers and sisters on last Saturday of each month for a Holy (Darse Quran) at:

Unit 102-8268 Scott Road, Surrey

ph: 604-592-9416& Cell:604-760-0096

Canada’s emerging immigration policies for the year 2024 / 2025

Canada has long been celebrated as one of the most immigrant-friendly countries in the world, renowned for its welcoming policies, diverse culture, robust economy, and high standard of living. As a nation built by immigrants, Canada continues to prioritize immigration as a key driver of economic growth and cultural enrichment.

With its progressive immigration policies, abundant opportunities, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, Canada stands as an attractive destination for individuals and families seeking a better quality of life and brighter prospects for the future.

Canada appeal as an immigration destination stems from various factors:

Economic Opportunities

Canada boasts a strong and resilient economy with diverse industries, ranging from technology and finance to healthcare and natural resources.

The three biggest industries here are real estate, mining, and manufacturing and it has the ninth-largest economy in the world as of 2022, with a GDP of $2.14 trillion in USD.

(via Investopedia)

The country offers ample employment opportunities, competitive wages, and favourable working conditions, making it an appealing destination for skilled workers and investors seeking to build successful careers and businesses.

Quality of Life:

With its vast natural landscapes, clean environment, and high living standards, Canada offers an exceptional quality of life for its residents. In the 2023 Quality of Living rankings released by Mercer, five Canadian cities landed in the top 25, with Vancouver at the 8th position, ranking more than any other city in North America. Toronto, known for its diversity ranked 17th. Ottawa, Montreal, and Calgary all ranked in the top 25.

Canadian cities consistently rank among the most livable cities globally as they offer their residents access to world-class healthcare, education, and recreational amenities.

Social Inclusion and Diversity: Canada prides itself on its multicultural society and commitment to social inclusion. It embraces diversity and promotes respect for all cultures, religions, and ethnicities. Immigrants and refugees are welcomed with

open arms and encouraged to preserve their cultural heritage while integrating into Canadian society.

Safety and Security:

Canada is renowned for its safety and stability, ranking among the safest countries in the world. Low crime rates, political stability, and a strong rule of law contribute to a sense of security and peace of mind for residents and newcomers alike.

Education and Healthcare:

Canada offers world-class education and healthcare systems that are accessible to all residents, including immigrants. Canadian schools and universities provide high-quality education and research opportunities from primary education to post-secondary institutions.

Similarly, Canada publicly funded healthcare system ensures that residents have access to essential medical services and treatments without financial barriers.

Recent Developments in Canadian Immigration Policies

In recent years, Canada has introduced several new immigration policies and initiatives aimed at attracting skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and students. These policies reflect Canada evolving demographic needs and economic priorities.

Some notable developments include:

Express Entry System Enhancements

The Express Entry system, introduced in 2015, has undergone several enhancements to streamline the immigration process and prioritize the admission of skilled workers who can contribute to Canada economy.

In 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced changes to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to give more weight to Canadian work experience and proficiency in official languages.

Six new categories were introduced, which brought a revolutionary shift. Aligned with changes in the Immigration

and Refugee Protection Act, these categories target specific attributes rather than relying solely on Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. This change aimed to streamline the path for candidates with unique skills, including those with French proficiency.

Global Talent Stream Expansion:

Canada Global Talent Stream (GTS) program, launched in 2017, facilitates the entry of highly skilled foreign workers into Canada labour market. In response to the growing demand for tech talent, the government recently expanded the GTS program to include additional occupations and expedite the processing of work permits for eligible candidates.

The additional occupations now include electrical and electronics, mining, civil, and aerospace engineers, along with electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians. (via KPMG)

Entrepreneur Immigration Programs

Canada offers various entrepreneur immigration programs at the federal and provincial levels to attract individuals with innovative business ideas.

In 2023, several provinces, including Ontario and British Columbia, announced updates to their entrepreneur immigration streams to make them more accessible and responsive to market needs.

Refugee Resettlement Initiatives:

Canada remains committed to providing protection and support to refugees fleeing persecution and conflict around the world. In response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and other regions, Canada expanded its refugee resettlement programs and increased its refugee intake quota in 2022 and 2023.

What to expect in 2024 - 2025?

With 485,000 new permanent residents being the goal for 2024, Canada is poised to further strengthen its position as a global leader in immigration and integration. The following trends and initiatives are expected to shape Canada immigration landscape in the coming years:

Continued Focus on Economic Immigration

With an aging population and labour force, Canada will continue to prioritize economic immigration to address skill shortages, drive innovation, and sustain economic growth. Efforts will be made to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors who can contribute to key sectors such as technology, healthcare, and green energy.

Expansion of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) play a vital role in Canada immigration system by allowing provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet specific regional labour market needs.

Provinces have recently received updated

guiding principles for their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), as the IRCC will introduce new multi-year plans in 2024. This initiative aims to provide provinces and territories with clearer insights into their immigration strategies, allowing them to anticipate their allocations for 2025 well in advance. In the coming years, we can expect to see the expansion and diversification of PNPs to address localised skill shortages and promote economic development outside major urban centres.

Focus on Family Reunification

Canada places a strong emphasis on family

reunification and will continue to prioritise the processing of sponsorship applications for spouses, partners, children, and parents/ grandparents.

Investment in Settlement and Integration Services:

As per Immigration Minister Marc Miller, the intake through PGP will be 32,000 in 2024, and efforts will be made to reduce processing times, streamline application procedures, and enhance support services for sponsored family members.

Recognizing the importance of successful integration for immigrant newcomers, Canada will invest in settlement services, language training, and community support programs. These initiatives aim to facilitate the social, economic, and cultural integration of immigrants and refugees into Canadian society.

Response to Global Challenges: Canada will remain responsive to evolving global challenges, including humanitarian crises, geopolitical conflicts, and climate change-induced displacement. Efforts will be made to enhance Canada capacity to provide protection and assistance to refugees and vulnerable populations, both domestically and internationally.

In conclusion, Canada emerging immigration policies for 2024 - 2025 reflect its commitment to building a diverse and prosperous society. With a focus on economic growth, family reunification, and humanitarian values, Canada continues to attract and welcome immigrants from around the world, offering them opportunities for success, stability, and belonging in their new home.

WE HELP YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO BRING IN CANADA

SYED RIAZ KHAN, RCIC

#201E, 7337 St, Surrey, BC 778.239.7861

ffsg.ca@icloud.com

role of Muslim Scholars in society

Question

What is the role of muslim scholars in society?

Answer

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah and that Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, is His slave and Messenger.

There is no doubt that the scholars play a vital role in society. They are the heirs of the Prophet’s knowledge, and they should act upon that knowledge, taking the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, as their role mode and doing what he used to do for the Muslim society. Their duties include the following:

First: keenness to teach people their religion and nurture their faith, morality

By: Asma Ayyaz

We live in a digital world.

Whether it’s for news, entertainment, work, or communication, chances are a digital device is involved. Few places are without access, and we are never more than a click away from being in touch with family, friends, or work.

We’ve grown accustomed to this unnatural state of constant connectivity. We reach for our phones when we wake up and do a last check of things before bed. In fact, we even have new terms like “FOMO” – the fear of missing out – to describe what some individuals experience when they are away from their devices or social networks even for a short time.

It’s hard to remember what we did before our phones and laptops felt like an extension of ourselves and we shared our lives so publicly through social networks. So, it’s easy to lose sight of the negative impact of all this technology. That’s why a digital detox may be just what you need.

What is a digital detox?

The term “detoxification” is defined as the process of removing toxic substances or qualities. In the case of a digital detox, it refers to a set period of time for an individual to stay away from the devices and

and Islamic etiquette. Allaah, The Exalted, says (what means): {It is He Who has sent among the unlettered a Messenger from themselves reciting to them His verses and purifying them and teaching them the Book and wisdom - although they were before in clear error.} [Quran 62:2] The sermons and speeches of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, and his advice to his Companions are too many to be listed in full.

Second: giving a good example for people to follow by means of abidance by the commands of Allaah and avoiding His prohibitions. Indeed, role models play a great role in guiding people to the straight path. Allaah, The Exalted, says (what means): {There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allaah an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allaah and the Last Day and (who) remembers Allah often.}

[Quran 33:21]

Third: they should treat people with modesty and humbleness and strive to help them with their needs to the best of their abilities. Anas ibn Maalik may Allaah be pleased with him reported, “If a female slave from the people of Madinah were to take the hand of the Messenger of Allaah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, he would go with her wherever she wanted to help her fulfil a need.”

[Al-Bukhari] Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen may Allaah have mercy upon him commented: “How humble the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, was! He was the master of all mankind and yet would not object that a slave girl takes him by the hand wherever she wished so that he would help her meet her needs.”

Ibn Umar may Allaah be pleased with them narrated that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “The dearest person to Allaah is the one who is the most beneficial to people. The dearest deed to Allaah is bringing happiness to a Muslim, dispelling a grief from him, settling his debt, or feeding him while he is hungry. It is dearer to me to support my Muslim brother in satisfying a need than to make itikaaf (seclusion for the purpose of worship) in this mosque (meaning the Prophet’s mosque in Madinah) for a month...” [At-Tabraani]

Fourth, enjoining good and forbidding evil and eliminating grudges and discord against fellow Muslims from people’s hearts, because the scholars are leaders and it is unbecoming of a true leader to harbor grudges against others. It has been narrated in the

Quran that the believers supplicate their Lord to eradicate resentment towards others from their hearts. Allaah, The Exalted, says (what means): {And (there is a share for) those who came after them, saying: Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith, and put not in our hearts (any) resentment toward those who have believed. Our Lord, indeed You are Kind and Merciful.} [Quran 59:10]

Fifth: striving in tending to the needs of fellow Muslims, visiting the sick, making peace between the disputing parties, and similar acts of goodness and kindness. Jaabir ibn Abdullaah may Allaah be pleased with them narrated, “I fell ill, and the Prophet, sallallaahu’alayhi wa sallam, and Abu Bakr came on foot to visit me...” [Al-Bukhari] Sahl ibn Saad may Allaah be pleased with him reported that there was a dispute amongst the people of the tribe of Banu Amr ibn Awf. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, went to them along with some of his companions in order to make peace between them. [Al-Bukhari]

You can refer to the books on the biography and attributes of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, to familiarize yourself with the refined manners with which the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, treated his Companions and the non-Muslims in Madinah. Verily, the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, is the best role model for all Muslims in this regard, and especially for the scholars. Allaah knows best.

Source..islamweb.org

what is digital detox and why is it important?

social media sites that have become such an integral part of life -smartphones, computers, tablets, televisions.

The purpose of a digital detox is to allow ourselves time to experience real life without distractions. It’s a way to reconnect with individuals personally rather than through a screen and take time to de-stress and step away from all that connectedness.

The dark side of our digital world

There are clear advantages to our new age of technology. Never have we had such instantaneous communication abilities, or access to terabytes of information at our fingertips. The digital age has changed jobs, increased productivity, improved transparency, and made our lives easier.

But all those benefits come at a cost. We are quickly learning there are negatives to our digital world.

• Information overload. This state of being overwhelmed by a never-ending stream of news and communication can cause anxiety, poor decision making, loss of focus, reduced productivity, and more.

• Jobs at stake. As technology continues to evolve, more jobs are becoming redundant.

• Increased multitasking. Technology encourages multitasking, but it may not be what our brains were designed to do.

• Shorter attention spans. Our attention spans are growing shorter as we try to consume all this information, resulting in less focus and reduced pro-

ductivity.

• Privacy issues. With so many aspects of our lives now online, technology threatens our privacy—from targeted marketing to the nightmare of a stolen identity.

Is a digital detox right for you?

If you are feeling any of the following, you might want to consider a break from your devices.

• You feel the need to check your phone constantly; you can’t concentrate unless you check your device often.

• You feel that you are missing out on something if you are not checking your phone for notifications and social posts regularly.

• After spending time on social media, you feel sad, angry, or anxious.

• If you can’t find your phone, it triggers stress and anxiety.

• Your devices disrupt your sleep.

• You begin comparing yourself to others on social media.

• You’d rather interact with individuals virtually than in person.

• Your device is causing worklife balance issues, with work

creeping into your personal time because your device is always on.

Benefits of a digital detox

When you step away from your devices and focus on the real world, you’ll experience several benefits, including:

• Less stress

• Improved focus

• Better sleep

• Enhanced relationships

• More time to do things you enjoy

How to do a digital detox?

If your relationship with your devices is interfering with other priorities, it may be time to think about cutting back on your digital life and focusing more on the real world.

For some individuals, a full detox may be an option. But for most, cutting yourself off completely from all things digital may not be realistic. So rather than going “cold turkey” you can take small steps and still reap the benefits.

Make a plan. The first step is to decide what is negatively impacting you and take steps to change that. If you’re on your phone too often, try setting certain times during the day to check your email, messages, and notifications rather

than constantly having your phone in hand. If it’s your social media activity that is causing stress, perhaps take a break from those sites for a day or a week and see how you feel.

Set specific goals. Once you’ve determined your plan, make it specific. For instance, you can choose to have device-free meals with family. You might opt to take a break from Instagram or Snapchat for a week, or maybe just set a daily time limit for your social media usage. Turning off notifications is another option, and a great way to minimize that urge to constantly check your device. Or monitor and limit your usage with settings and tools easily available on your device or through an app. Whatever you choose, it’s important to commit to it, be specific, and give yourself time to break your old habits. Tell family and friends. This is an important aspect to your detox. Let your family and friends know you are taking a break from your device(s) or online activity and not to expect immediate responses from you. This support can be a great help as you try to live a lessconnected life.

Evaluate your results and make your changes permanent.

Once you’ve given your detox the time and commitment needed, step back and assess how you’re feeling. Do you feel less stressed? Has it improved your productivity or sleep? Do you feel more focused, or seem to have more time on your hands?

Once you’ve figured out the benefits, it will be easier to continue to practice what makes you feel better! Email: asmashums@gmail.com

By: Yasir Qadhi, Dean of The Islamic Seminary of America and Resident Scholar of East Plano Islamic Cente

We are witnessing a unique and welcome phenomenon: Muslims in the West are at the forefront of a social movement that transcends any one faith or ethnicity. For those following the news, protests led by parents have erupted across the United States and Canada against school boards that wish to teach schoolchildren content about the acceptability of LGBTQ lifestyles.

While parents of all ethnicities and religions are involved, Muslim parents have been playing a central role in all of these cases,

Muslims opposed to lGBTQ curricula for their kids aren’t bigots

both as organisers and protesters, and their highly visible presence is creating waves on social media. It is understandable for parents to be concerned. In Maryland, for example, a school district has approved books that discuss homosexuality and transgenderism as normal realities for children as young as three years old. This is state-sponsored ideological indoctrination of toddlers who can barely form complete sentences, much less think critically.

Parents have a God-given duty and legal right to provide moral instruction and guidance to their children. This includes the right of parents and their children to reject ideologies that contravene their beliefs.

Yet, supposedly secular institutions like public schools are now dictating that students

must accept and affirm LGBTQ ideology, at times with the threat that if they refuse to do so, they “do not belong” in their country, as one teacher in Edmonton, Canada, recently said to a Muslim student.

As Muslims, we refuse to be coerced into believing something our faith categorically condemns. This is not a political stance. It is a moral principle.

A recent statement I helped draft, titled “Navigating Differences: Clarifying Sexual and Gender Ethics in Islam”, has been signed and endorsed by more than 300 Islamic scholars and preachers across North America. In this document, we explicitly and clearly lay out the non-negotiable, normative Islamic position on sexuality and gender ethics.

We believe this statement will allow Muslim parents, educators, students and professionals to establish their right to hold their religious views without fear of legal reprisal. All too often, those who wish to live in accordance with mainstream, family-based morality are accused of being bigoted and “homophobic” if they refuse to endorse LGBTQ events. Many suffer social repercussions for holding such beliefs. Worse still, children are expected to attend events in which drag shows and other actions deemed immoral by many people of faith are showcased. This statement seeks to be a reference point to demonstrate to school boards and employers why Muslims must preferably be excused from activities that contradict our religious ideals...Source:..aljazeera.com/

remove rachna Singh from her office as education Minister Protest to be continued

AParents Say No to:

• Sexualization

• Transgendrism

• Pornographic Books

• Sex Change Surgeries In BC Public Schools Fight for your Children No one else will1

JoB VaC anCY JoB VaC anCY

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Job Title

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application Deadline: 2024-07-15

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Type: Full Time

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Employer Type: Business

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Job Category: Construction

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GDK

t ML A, Bruce Ralston Office, Surrey-Whalley. The Rally’s Protesters have noticed that a Rainbow has been painted at Bruce’s office Glasses. Parents might be asked the BC NDP

ML As in the upcoming BC Provincial Election 2024. (on the right) At ML A, Jinny Sims Office, SurreyPanorama. The Protesters have stayed with different Sologans and banners:

SC says withdrawal of ‘rigging’

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Monday described the filing of the petition seeking fresh elections after declaring the Feb 8 elections null and void and then trying to withdraw the same as something which amounts to abuse of the process of the court. “This court will safeguard that such manipulation does not take place,” observed Chief Justice of

abuse of its process

Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa while dictating an order after finding that the petitioner did not show up in the courtroom when his case was taken up.

The case will again be taken up on Feb 21.

“Is this a joke to file the petition and then disappear,” the CJP wondered, while heading a three-judge bench also comprising Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musarrat Hilali. After learning the petitioner is not present in the courtroom, the court ordered the office and the Registrar’s Office to reach out to the petitioner through phone call but

the staff informed the court that petitioner’s mobile phone was not responding.

“Is this a joke to file the petition and then disappear,” the CJP wondered, while heading a three-judge bench also comprising Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musarrat Hilali. After learning the petitioner is not present in the courtroom, the court ordered the office and the Registrar’s Office to reach out to the petitioner through phone call but the staff informed the court that petitioner’s mobile phone was not responding

Source.dawn.com/

PTI ‘merges’ with seatless party for three assemblies

Much ado about reserved seats: Can PTI get them with SIC’s help?

To “protect” PTI’s reserved seats and “provide cover” to its members, the party

• Allies itself with Sunni Ittehad Council for Centre, Punjab and KP

• Party delegation calls on JUI-S leadership to seek ‘moral support’ for anti-rigging protests

ISLAMABAD: The PTI on Monday sealed its alliance with the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) in a bid to claim its share of reserved seats in the national, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies, while a delegation of PTI leaders called on the leadership of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-Sheerani) in Islamabad to seek their support for potential street protests. Later on Monday, the SIC wrote to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to indicate that 50 PTI-backed independents had joined their party. The formal announcement of the merger came a

day after an understanding was reached between the two in a meeting on Sunday, which was also attended by the Majlis-i-Wahdatul Muslimeen. Interestingly, the SIC does not have a single seat in parliament and its head, Sahibzada Muhammad Hamid Raza, was elected as an independent from Faisalabad. According to an ECP document, the Sunni Ittehad Council is enlisted with the ECP and Sahibzada Muhammad Hamid Raza is the party head. However, the party does not have a seat in the Centre or provinces.

Advocate Jawadul Hasan Kazmi, Hamid Raza’s lawyer who filed the SIC’s documents with the ECP, told Dawn that Hamid Raza won the election from NA-104 (Faisalabad) as an independent candidate. “After winning the election, Mr Raza has given a formal notice [to ECP] to consider him as a member of the SIC as the party is enlisted with the ECP,” he said. Advocate Kazmi said that, according to his information, the SIC did not

Will they, won’t they ends as PMLN, PPP agree terms on coalition govt power sharing Bilawal says numbers with PML-N are now “complete” to form govt, says Shehbaz Sharif to be next PM, thanks PML-N for supporting Asif Ali Zardari as next president.

\ISLAMABAD: Another round of talks between the PML-N and the PPP regarding the formation of the new government remained inconclusive on Monday, giving rise to speculations that the two sides will prolong this dialogue till the constitutional deadline of Feb 29 for the first National Assembly session. As negotiations for the incoming coalition government continue apparently due to the PPP’s reluctance, insiders have told Dawn that the party is gradually coming under pressure from different sides, includ-

ing within its own ranks, to join the government. Another round of talks will kick off on Tuesday. In the Feb 8 polls, the PTI-backed independent candidates emerged as the largest bloc with 93 seats in the National Assem bly, followed by PML-N with 75 seats. The PPP bagged 54 seats. Due to a split mandate in the general election, not a single political party is in a position to form its government.

The PTI has categorically announced that it will not make any alliance with both the PML-N and the PPP. In the house of 336 seats (including reserved seats), a minimum of 169 seats are required to form the new government.

“Still eight to nine days are left in convening the session of the National Assembly,” PPP leader Qamar Zaman Kaira said while talking in a private TV programme. He said the

Lhours later.

The viral video, which was also shared by PTI founder Imran Khan’s official X account, appeared to show two journalists inspecting ballot papers labelled as being meant for NA-15 (Mansehra) — where PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif had contested — at a printing press in Lahore. But as the clip circulated on social media, questions began to be raised over why ballot papers would need to be printed

win any other seat in the National Assembly. “However, it is the right of the candidates to join any enlisted party within 72 hours after the victory notification, so Sahibzada Muhammad Hamid Raza will join the SIC and the PTI will also get the reserved seats,” he claimed. It is worth mentioning that last week PTI decided to join the MWM but the merger did not materialise due to some reasons. PTI officials had opined that the candidate of the MWM in Punjab had contested the election as an independent candidate, which could diminish the chances of the PTI

to claim its seats in the Punjab Assembly by joining the MWM.

Against this background, the PTI legal wizards huddled to find a way out of this impasse. An insider said the legal team had discussed this issue in detail and reached a conclusion that the PTI-backed independents could join any political party registered with the ECP. “Once our members join the SIC, there will be around 100 members of the SIC in the National Assembly and they will have a constitutional right to claim reserved seats,” he said....Source: dawn.com/

consensus eludes would-be partners

election of the prime minister will take place on March 2 or 3 so the two sides have ample time to reach a logical conclusion.

Mr Kaira said it was never a part of the agenda of the meeting that PPP would join the government in the Centre. “So far the PPP is sticking to its stance that it will not ask the PML-N for ministries,” he added. “We sat only to streamline our mutual issues so that no deadlock will take place once the future government starts its function,” the PPP leader said. Asked if PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari is a candidate for the office of the president of Pakistan and if the PML-N will field its candidate for the same office, Mr Kaira said: “In alliances, candidates are not fielded against each other.”

Power-sharing formula

Sources told Dawn that some PPP leaders were supporting the idea of sharing the upcoming government with the PML-N and getting some federal ministries in return.

However, PPP Chairman Bilawal BhuttoZardari is said to be opposed to the idea of power-sharing with the PML-N, and it is believed that he only agreed to support the

so long after the elections. Others asked why Rai Saqib Kharal and Imran Arshad, the reporters seen in the video, had not uploaded or shared the footage themselves. While this debate was raging, accounts from the two journalists and one of their editors seemed to indicate that the video’s authenticity was suspect. The men said that they had been led to the printing press by a source, who had demanded that the videos be released immediately. However, senior journalist Nasrullah Malik, who had been approached by the duo to air the video, waded into the fray to say that he had posed several questions: questioning authenticity of the source; why

PML-N to complete its numbers for the formation of the government.

A day earlier, the PPP chief had rejected the idea, saying he was not interested in such a deal. “I do not want to become such a prime minister,” he had said in his address.

According to Mr Kaira, the Monday meeting did not discuss the power-sharing formula. “We sat only to streamline our mutual issues so that no deadlock will take place once the future government starts its function,” Mr Kaira said. It may be noted that the PPP has sought a share in the Punjab cabinet, where the PML-N is in a comfortable position to form the provincial government. In addition to this demand, the PPP has also asked for the posts of the NA speaker, the president of Pakistan, and the Senate chairman.

Later, talking to reporters PML-N leader Azam Nazeer Tarar, who is a member of the party’s committee said the second round of Monday’s talks has been adjourned today (Tuesday) morning. He said the negotiations between the PPP and PML-N were going positively. Source: dawn.com/

the printing press was lying wide open for anybody to come in; and whether the news could be ‘planted’ and might give credence to a particular political party’s narrative against its rivals.

“I wanted a detailed investigation into the matter and not become part of any political party’s agenda. I did not want to run the half-cooked story,” he added. Another journalist, Mansoor Ali Khan, claimed to have spoken to the duo and said that it was their ‘source’ who had leaked the videos after the two journalists said they wanted to do some digging into the claims... Source: dawn.com/

AHORE: A video filmed by a couple of television journalists at a printing press in Lahore — touted by the PTI as being ‘proof’ of post-poll rigging — created waves on social media, only to be debunked

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