Hiiraan Online
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Toronto, Canada (HOL) - In less than 4 months of opening in Scarborough, Sakinah Center is establishing itself as a leader in the Toronto Muslim community. The newly established Muslim community center held the first annual “Know Your Rights” community forum. Various politicians and civil servants gathered to educate Somalis about the legal system. Nearly 2000 attendees gathered to learn about civic engagement and Law enforcement. The audience cheered as they listened to motivational speeches, hadiths, and children reciting the Quran.
Said Rageah, Founder and Executive Director of Sakinah Center, urged the audience to start thinking long term, but work today to improve the community. Rageah said, “In seven years, I am praying for our community to be strong and united. Our children can walk the streets freely and be not discriminated against.”
The audience cheered as Robert Hausman, Director of Toronto Police Academy, announced a scholarship for $10,000 to train future Somali Police Officers . Hausman told the audience when people work together, magic happens. The Police Academy will partner with Sakinah Center to provide a $10,000 scholarship for any youth who wants pursue a career in law enforcement. Hausman said, “We are doing this because of the work Said Rageah has done to bring the community together, he is a true leader. “
Jamal Khan, Retired Toronto Police Staff Sergeant, said he is glad to see young Muslims get the opportunity to pursue a career path that is rewarding and needed. Khan is the highest ranked Muslim Police Officer in North America.
Hussein Aly, Criminal Attorney, with law firm Rusonik, O’Connor, Robbins, Ross, Gorham & Angelini, LLP., reassured the attendees of their rights when police stop them. Aly says the police are here to serve and protect. He said the biggest challenge the community faces is the lack of Somali lawyers. Aly stressed the importance of education to improve the community, “We must start thinking big picture and get into fields that benefit the community.”
Other invited speakers included Eugene Jones, President of Toronto Community Housing, Hon. Jim Karygiannis MP Scarborough-Agincourt, Judge Rafiq Rokerya, Councillor Michael Thompson, and Abdul Chahbar, Justice of the Peace.
The $10,000 scholarship will go to one qualifying youth. Qualifications and information can be found on www.sakinahcenter.com or 416-615-1550
Hiiraan Online News Desk