Happy New Year from the CCMW family!

As 2020 comes to an end, we are all reflecting on the year that was.
Evoking the inner Dickens, it was indeed the best of times and the worst of times.

The best was on full display as essential workers risked their lives to provide healthcare to all of us and those inflicted with COVID-19, teach our children, care for our elders, stack grocery shelves to ensure we had necessary provisions for survival, deliver food from our favourite restaurants, and keep transit and other public services running.  There are far too many heroes to enumerate here but without their perseverance, life could have been far more difficult.  The best was also evident in the ways people came together to find ways to work, gather and socialize in a virtual world.  COVID stomachs grew as families baked, cooked and ate their favourite comfort foods.

The worst is best left unsaid but grief, isolation and irrevocable loss were common features.  Economic, social and health inequities grew and brought to light the stark realities of systemic disadvantage faced by Black, Brown and Indigenous peoples.

By the grace of God, the Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW) endured and prevailed.  We were blessed with tireless and committed chapter, board and staff members and our friends, families and supporters that made our work and lives meaningful.   The challenging times brought out the best in them and they are on course to welcome 2021 with hope and determination for a happier and healthier year ahead.

Happy New Year from the CCMW family!

Sincerely,

Nuzhat Jafri
Executive Director
Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW)