jaala

I attended a speech and Q&A session with Irshad Manji[1] tonight. This speech was focused more on why as both a Muslim and a supporter of diversity and human rights she supports the existence of Israel... rather than on her usual calls for reform within Islam (as discussed in her book[2] and on her website).

The auditorium was packed (to overflowing) with a good mix of people; both kippot and hijab were visible, for instance. Some left looking pleased, some looking extremely displeased, and a lot more looking perplexed or intrigued at some level.

I may not agree with all of her rhetoric but her courage and willingness to tackle extremely contentious issues head on is inspiring. I have a lot to think about after that speech and Q&A, browsing her website, and reading reviews of her book on amazon.com.

Now, after "wasting" two hours after the presentation ended, I have to complete my assignments for tomorrow. Rrrr...

[1] I remember way back when she was the host of QueerTelevision on Citytv. That must have been a while ago. I ran across the show only a few times--perhaps it was on at some awkward time?--but I remember her magnetic personality.

[2] Which I haven't read and didn't have money to purchase, by the way.