This Month TDSB Recognizes Islamic Heritage Month
TDSB has proudly recognized Islamic Heritage Month (IHM) during the month of October since 2016. This year, the theme is Sabr and Shukr.
Islamic Heritage Month has been recognized across Canada in different ways since October 2007. In November 2016, the Province of Ontario established October as Islamic History Month through the Islamic Heritage Month Act, and further stated that “proclaiming a month to be Islamic Heritage Month in Ontario will provide all Ontarians, both today and in future generations, with an opportunity to reflect, celebrate, and learn about the rich and longstanding Islamic history in the Province and the diverse roles and contributions of Muslim people in communities across Ontario. This new understanding will in turn help combat anti-Islamic sentiment." (Link: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/16i20)
Sabr and shukr are oft-mentioned concepts in the Qu'ran that offer guidance as to how Muslims should face challenges. Sabr is patience, perseverance, and persistence, which are essential to accomplishing goals, overcoming obstacles, and dealing with setbacks. Shukr is gratitude that allows one to recognize one's blessings and can take the form of words, feelings, or behaviours. Every day, we find ways to face challenges, both small and large, with a combination of sabr and shukr. This Islamic Heritage Month we will explore how sabr and shukr are woven into the lived experiences, histories, and cultures of Muslim communities.