Aga Khan's Global Centre for Pluralism

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Canada's Global Advantage

On April 24th, the Global Centre for Pluralism hosted the launch of the report, “The Diversity Dividend: Canada’s Global Advantage,” in partnership with the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation and the Centre for International Governance Innovation. The report presented the findings and policy recommendations arising from a year-long research project examining the links between diversity and economic prosperity.

The research project, led by Dr. Bessma Momani and Jill Stirk, and supported by the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation, showed positive correlations between workplace diversity and both revenue and productivity in companies in 13 industrial sectors in Canada. Across all the industries studied, a 1% increase in ethnocultural diversity was associated with an average 2.4% increase in revenue.

The launch event featured a panel discussion between distinguished representatives from the private sector, civil society, academia and the media. The discussion focussed on how their sectors are being impacted by, and responding to, issues of diversity in Canada. The event was attended by over 100 guests at the Centre, with exceptional online engagement and livecast viewing. The conversation online with the hashtag #diversitydividend trended in Canada.

The findings of this research project will have important implications for public policy and the public discourse around issues of diversity, immigration and the growth of the Canadian economy. The Centre was honoured to help share this report with Canadians across the country.

Report available at:
http://www.pluralism.ca/images/Diversit ... rt_WEB.pdf

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http://mailchi.mp/pluralism/accounting- ... 20f57ec9da
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Statement by Yasmin Ratansi Member of Parliament Don Valley East in the Parliament:

https://twitter.com/Yasmin_Ratansi/stat ... 6216952833

Includes video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1j56I12Qvls

Published on May 10, 2017

The Global Centre for Pluralism will officially open on May 16, 2017 in Ottawa. Diversity is a benefit and not a risk.
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Ottawa al Akbar 2017, May

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May 19 Special Video Showing on the Global Centre for Pluralism

A video highlighting the official opening of the international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism will be shown on Friday, May 19 after Jamati ceremonies. Members of the Jamat, including family members of other faiths, are encouraged to attend.
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H.H. The Aga Khan is expected to arrive in Ottawa, Canada early next week to attend at 10:30am on 16th May the opening of the new HQ of the Global Center of Pluralism at an event which will also be attended by the Trustees including The Governor General David Johnston, Former Governor General Adrienne Clarkson, Former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and many other high profile guests.


LIVE WEBCAST HERE on 16th May 2017 at 10:30am
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Admin wrote:LIVE WEBCAST HERE on 16th May 2017 at 10:30am[/b]
Standard Eastern Time
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Official Opening of the Global Centre for Pluralism’s international headquarters

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Livestream begins at 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time

330 Sussex Drive, Ottawa

Watch the livestream below


His Highness the Aga Khan, spiritual leader of Shia Ismaili Muslims around the world, and His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada will welcome distinguished guests to the official opening of the Centre’s new permanent headquarters in Ottawa.

In the beautifully restored heritage building at 330 Sussex Drive, formerly the Public Archives of Canada (1905-1967) and the Canadian War Museum (1967-2005), the Centre will continue to expand its work as a global platform for comparative analysis, learning and dialogue about the importance of valuing diversity both in Canada and around the world.

The opening ceremony celebrates the long-standing public-private partnership between His Highness and Canada.

Please note this event is by invitation only. We invite you to participate by watching the livestream coverage and following us on Twitter @GlobalPluralism for live-tweets from the event with the hashtag #330Sussex.

http://www.pluralism.ca/en/events/official-opening.html

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The Global Centre for Pluralism

May 12, 2017

Governor General to Attend the Opening of the New International Headquarters for the Global Centre for Pluralism

OTTAWA—His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, will join His Highness the Aga Khan at the official opening of the new international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism, in Ottawa, on Tuesday, May 16, 2017, at 10:30 a.m.

During this event, the Governor General will deliver an address on the importance of pluralism and the role the Centre and Canada can play as leaders in this globally significant issue.

The event will be streamed live online at www.pluralism.ca.

About the Global Centre for Pluralism
Founded in Ottawa by His Highness the Aga Khan in partnership with the Government of Canada, the Global Centre for Pluralism is an independent, charitable organization. Inspired by Canada’s experience as a diverse and inclusive country, the Centre was created to advance positive responses to the challenge of living peacefully and productively together in diverse societies.

https://www.gg.ca/document.aspx?id=16818&lan=eng

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New Global Centre for Pluralism combines timeless design and heritage details

BY Hattie Klotz

POSTED May 12, 2017 11:51 am


It’s been many years in the making, but the former Canadian War Museum (1967 – 2005) and before that the Public Archives of Canada (1905 – 1967), has been re-born.

Now known as the Global Centre for Pluralism, the building at 330 Sussex Dr. is a study in the combination of heritage details and historical context, with contemporary functionality and an eye for timeless design.

His Highness the Aga Khan, has invested $35 million in the restoration of this building, completed in 1905. A team of architects and designers has invested many years of thought, research, and planning into rejuvenating the building to 21st century standards, while at the same time advancing the idea that this Ottawa landmark might be a catalyst for improving its environs. This has included removing asbestos from the walls and then insulating them; replacing all heating, cooling and lighting systems to improve energy efficiency; and introducing contemporary design elements to the building.

More...
http://ottawamagazine.com/homes/design/ ... e-details/

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Former Sussex Drive war museum ready to reopen as the Global Centre for Pluralism

Matthew Pearson, Ottawa Citizen Matthew Pearson, Ottawa Citizen

The place where Canadians once came to commemorate this country’s contributions to war has been boldly reimagined for the 21st century as a centre that fosters pluralism and celebrates diversity as a new international value.

Built between 1904 and 1906, 330 Sussex Dr. was designed by David Ewart, the chief dominion architect. His other notable buildings include the Royal Canadian Mint and the Canadian Museum of Nature. It served as the dominion archives for 60 years before becoming the Canadian War Museum in 1967.

The three-storey Tudor Gothic stone building has been vacant since 2005, when the war museum relocated to its new space on LeBreton Flats.

Now, a decade after a $35-million restoration led by KPMB Architects — and paid for by the Aga Khan —began, the Global Centre for Pluralism’s international headquarters officially opens on Tuesday.

When the Citizen was given a sneak peek inside late last week, workers were busy with the finishing touches.

Photos and more...
http://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-new ... -pluralism
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Mawlana Hazar Imam arrives in Canada ahead of Global Centre for Pluralism opening

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TheIsmaili.org

15 May 2017

Ottawa, 15 May 2017 — Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Ottawa this afternoon, accompanied by Princess Zahra and Prince Aly Muhammad. Tomorrow Hazar Imam will be joined by His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada for the official opening of the international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism.

Soon after their arrival, Mawlana Hazar Imam, Princess Zahra and Prince Aly Muhammad visited the Global Centre for Pluralism, and were given a tour of the building by John McNee, Secretary General of the Centre.

Situated at 330 Sussex Drive, the new permanent headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism is a heritage building that served as the Public Archives of Canada between 1905–67 and as the Canadian War Museum from 1967–2005. The facility underwent a significant transformation before reopening its doors in January of this year.

The opening ceremony will be streamed live at the websites of the Global Centre for Pluralism, the Aga Khan Development Network and the Globe and Mail. The webcast is due to start at 10:30 AM EDT (Ottawa time).

http://www.theismaili.org/news-events/m ... sm-opening
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Former Sussex Drive war museum ready to reopen as the Global Centre for Pluralism

Matthew Pearson, Ottawa Citizen Matthew Pearson, Ottawa Citizen
Published on: May 15, 2017 | Last Updated: May 15, 2017 9:40 PM ED

The place where Canadians once came to commemorate this country’s contributions to war has been boldly reimagined for the 21st century as a centre that fosters pluralism and celebrates diversity as a new international value.

Built between 1904 and 1906, 330 Sussex Dr. was designed by David Ewart, the chief dominion architect. His other notable buildings include the Royal Canadian Mint and the Canadian Museum of Nature. It served as the dominion archives for 60 years before becoming the Canadian War Museum in 1967.

The three-storey Tudor Gothic stone building has been vacant since 2005, when the war museum relocated to its new space on LeBreton Flats.

Now, a decade after a $35-million restoration led by KPMB Architects — and paid for by the Aga Khan —began, the Global Centre for Pluralism’s international headquarters officially opens on Tuesday.

When the Citizen was given a sneak peek inside late last week, workers were busy with the finishing touches.

Project manager Farhad Mawani explained how Ewart wanted Ottawa to have buildings that befitted a capital city and, for their time, had modern touches, such as open concepts, plain white walls and exposed beams. Some of the materials used, then and now, include white oak and marble.

Considered a Class A national historic building, the highest rating possible, the renovations to 330 Sussex — which sits between the National Gallery of Canada and the Mint on a perch overlooking the Ottawa River — had to be minimal and sensitive. “We didn’t just want to start ripping everything out,” Mawani said.

The international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism (formerly the War Museum) at 330 Sussex Drive have undergone a major rehabilitation led by the award-winning architects KPMB and supported by a $35 million investment from the Aga Khan. May 12,2017. Errol McGihon/Postmedia Errol McGihon / Postmedia

The international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism (formerly the War Museum) at 330 Sussex Drive have undergone a major rehabilitation led by the award-winning architects KPMB and supported by a $35 million investment from the Aga Khan. May 12,2017. Errol McGihon/Postmedia Errol McGihon / Postmedia

Design work was completed in 2013, lead and asbestos were removed the next year, and construction began in earnest the year after that. The Centre’s 14 staff have been working out of it since January.

An addition, built in the 1920s, will be occupied by the Mint. A third wing never materialized, so the building has retained its asymmetrical, L-shape.

Two things now set the building apart from earlier versions of itself.

A new courtyard off Sussex featuring benches and blooming flower beds is intended to draw people in and create a new public space.

“Already, even though it’s been a bumpy start to spring, there are lots of people coming and sitting and chatting, and that’s the idea,” secretary general John McNee said in an interview.

The forecourt, as he called it, is unquestionably lovely, but the building itself feels austere, colonial and stuffy. It doesn’t scream pluralism or diversity.

But McNee said its august location on the ceremonial route between Rideau Hall and Parliament Hill sends a signal that these are important values in Canada. The idea for this centre dates back to the 1990s when the Aga Khan began asking Canadian leaders to explain the success of Canada’s approach to diversity.

Plus, when the building was the war museum, a giant tank greeted visitors. “That’s not terribly welcoming,” McNee said.

The other unique feature, on the building’s back side facing the river, is an angular window that juts out, bathing all three storeys in natural light. Viewed from inside, it acts as a magnet, pulling people to it, compelling them to stare out over the river below.

It symbolizes opening a door to the river and simultaneously acts as a nod to the organization’s raison d’être to position Canada as a country that’s open to the world.

KPMB took the trefoil design that’s repeated on the building’s parapet and reinterpreted it to create a pattern that is used as a screen on part of the window and also for acoustic panelling in one of the centre’s key spaces.

Elsewhere, walls are adorned with Canadian art. The idea was to choose artists or pieces that tell a story of pluralism in Canada. Former Governor-General Adrienne Clarkson, who sits on the centre’s board, was on the committee that selected the art.

The Global Centre for Pluralism is one of 150 buildings participating in this year’s instalment of Doors Open Ottawa. Curious members of the public can visit on June 3 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The Global Centre for Pluralism is also part of the National Capital Commission’s Confederation Pavilions program. It will be open from June 7 until the end of October for self-guided tours on Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons.

The international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism (formerly the War Museum) at 330 Sussex Drive have undergone a major rehabilitation led by the award-winning architects KPMB and supported by a $35 million investment from the Aga Khan. May 12,2017. Errol McGihon/Postmedia Errol McGihon / Postmedia

The international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism (formerly the War Museum) at 330 Sussex Drive have undergone a major rehabilitation led by the award-winning architects KPMB and supported by a $35 million investment from the Aga Khan. May 12,2017. Errol McGihon/Postmedia Errol McGihon / Postmedia

The international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism (formerly the War Museum) at 330 Sussex Drive have undergone a major rehabilitation led by the award-winning architects KPMB and supported by a $35 million investment from the Aga Khan. May 12,2017.
Errol McGihon/Postmedia Errol McGihon / Postmedia

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http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/pol ... e35011593/

Trudeau a no-show at event with Aga Khan in Ottawa

Michelle Zilio

OTTAWA — The Globe and Mail

Published Tuesday, May 16, 2017 7:35PM EDT

Last updated Tuesday, May 16, 2017 8:53PM EDT

he Aga Khan was in Ottawa Tuesday for the grand opening of the Global Centre for Pluralism, a think tank founded by the billionaire Ismaili Muslim leader with $30-million in federal-government support.

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However, the Aga Khan’s long-time family friend, Justin Trudeau, was nowhere to be seen at the event. The Prime Minister’s absence comes amidst an investigation into his family’s vacation to the Aga Khan’s private island last Christmas.


A source familiar with the matter said the Prime Minister was invited to the event. But according to a PMO spokesperson, Mr. Trudeau was attending a cabinet meeting on Parliament Hill at that time, about one kilometre from the centre.

The Aga Khan was not available to answer reporters’ questions Tuesday, according to staff organizing the event. Asked why Mr. Trudeau was not in attendance, Heritage Minister Mélanie Joly, who represented the Liberal government at the centre’s opening, refused to directly answer reporters’ questions.

“We were happy as a government to be here along with the Governor-General and of course His Highness, the Aga Khan,” Ms. Joly said. “This centre is extremely important for our government.”

Mr. Trudeau’s Open and Accountable Government rules prohibit ministers and parliamentary secretaries from accepting sponsored travel without approval of the ethics commissioner.

He came under fire from both the Conservatives and NDP for the ethics controversy again in Question Period on Tuesday. In what was likely to be her last question in the House of Commons to the Prime Minister, outgoing interim Conservative Leader Rona Ambrose demanded Mr. Trudeau reveal whether he has met with the ethics commissioner to discuss the vacation.

“This is likely my last question for the Prime Minister, so I am going to make him an offer. I will call off the attack dogs and nobody on this side will ask the question 18 more times. I think that sounds like a pretty fair deal. Let us end this with a real answer,” Ms. Ambrose said.

Responding to question, Mr. Trudeau said Ethics Commissioner Mary Dawson has asked him not to discuss the process.

Ms. Dawson, whose term ends on July 8, is currently investigating Mr. Trudeau for a possible breach of the Conflict of Interest Act for not seeking her approval before he took the Aga Khan’s private helicopter from Nassau to Bell Island.

Mr. Trudeau has admitted he did not seek Ms. Dawson’s approval, saying that he does not believe he did anything unethical as the only way to get to the island was to use the Aga Khan’s personal helicopter.

On Monday, Mr. Trudeau recused himself from making a decision on Ms. Dawson’s replacement, given the ongoing investigation into his family’s vacation. Government House Leader Bardish Chagger will be responsible for naming a replacement for Ms. Dawson.

The centre is also distancing itself from Mr. Trudeau’s vacation controversy.

“This is not a matter for the Global Centre for Pluralism,“ said John McNee, secretary-general of the Global Centre for Pluralism.

Mr. McNee said the centre is thrilled to officially move into its new office at 330 Sussex Dr. The federal heritage building, located beside the Royal Canadian Mint, used to be home to the Dominion Archives of Canada and the Canadian War Museum. It recently underwent a massive $35-million restoration, and now houses the centre in one wing and some Mint offices in the other.

The centre, which began operating in 2011, was housed at the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat, another Aga Khan building on Sussex, until renovations were completed this year.

Mr. McNee said the new building will allow the centre to establish itself in its own space. It will publish 25 analytical papers this year examining the state of pluralism around the world, including in Bolivia, Singapore and India. Mr. McNee said there will also be a $50,000 Global Pluralism Award for an international advocate or organization working to promote diverse, inclusive societies around the world.

“His Highness and our board see the Global Centre as a permanent institution because it deals with problems of human society that are never fixed,” Mr. McNee said.

Former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan, who sits on the centre’s board, emphasized the importance of the centre’s work amidst the rise of populism and anti-immigrant sentiments around the world, including in the United States.

“What is happening in Canada and the Global Centre is extremely important because people are resisting migration and hopefully they are more sensitive to refugees. Migration will not stop. It will continue. What is important is for us to find a way of managing migration.”

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Opening of the Global Center of Pluralism in Ottawa, Canada on 16 May 2017



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http://globalnews.ca/news/3454338/aga-k ... pluralism/

May 16, 2017 5:24 am
Updated: May 16, 2017 1:25 pm

Aga Khan opens pluralism centre in Ottawa amid Trudeau vacation controversy

By Mike Blanchfield The Canadian Press

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OTTAWA – The Aga Khan returned to Ottawa today to unveil the new headquarters of an international organization that is positioning itself as an antidote of sorts to the growing strains of populism and intolerance.

But if you thought for one minute that the wealthy philanthropist, who is hereditary spiritual leader to the world’s 15 million Ismaili Muslims, would talk about that helicopter ride he gave to Justin Trudeau over the Christmas holidays, forget it.

The 80-year-old Aga Khan kept the focus on the opening of the new home for the Global Centre for Pluralism – part think tank, part advocacy group – in a renovated piece of prime Ottawa real estate on Sussex Drive.

John McNee, secretary general of the centre, is well aware of the controversy that has dominated Parliament Hill in recent months: the prime minister’s ride on the Aga Khan’s private helicopter ride to visit his private island in the Bahamas.

“That’s not a matter for the Global Centre for Pluralism,” McNee said in an interview.

The Conservatives have loudly condemned Trudeau for the trip, which they say violated the Conflict of Interest Act, and are demanding to know more about an ongoing probe of the voyage by the federal ethics commissioner.
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Aga Khan opens Ottawa pluralism centre, and board members blast Trump


The Canadian Press
Published May 16, 2017 - 6:28pm

OTTAWA — The Aga Khan returned Tuesday to Ottawa to unveil the new headquarters of an international organization that is positioning itself as an antidote of sorts to growing strains of populism and intolerance around the world.

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Board members of the Global Centre for Pluralism, including former governor general Adrienne Clarkson, singled out the arrival of Donald Trump in the White House as something that makes the centre's work even more relevant.

"We have to keep a very careful eye on not only the countries that have a history of turmoil but also on places like the United States, where the rule of law is being flouted by the president," said Clarkson.

"It is terrifying to see that on a daily basis, and think, how is that going to work out in the end because it's such an important power — it's a great country."

Board member Kofi Annan, the former UN secretary general, singled out Trump for blaming foreigners for taking American jobs "and other bad things," and for deceiving unemployed Americans in the rust belt that he can revive the coal industry to create jobs.

"When you don't do that and you lie to them, I worry what happens (the) next time they realize they've been deceived," said Annan.

Controversy hovered over the Ottawa appearance of the Aga Khan, a wealthy philanthropist and hereditary spiritual leader to the world's 15 million Ismaili Muslims. He gave Justin Trudeau a controversial helicopter ride to his private island in the Bahamas over the Christmas holidays, something the opposition continued to press the prime minister on during question period on Tuesday.

The 80-year-old Aga Khan kept the focus on the opening of the new pluralism centre — part think tank, part advocacy group — on a renovated piece of prime Ottawa real estate on Sussex Drive.

John McNee, secretary general of the centre, declined comment on the helicopter controversy, saying: "That's not a matter for the Global Centre for Pluralism."

The Conservatives have loudly condemned Trudeau for the trip, which they say violated the Conflict of Interest Act. They are demanding to know more about an ongoing investigation by the federal ethics commissioner.

A former aide to Stephen Harper says the Conservative ex-prime minister was hopeful none of that would overshadow the opening of the new pluralism centre headquarters, or its core mandate of promoting diversity in a troubled world.

"He's hugely supportive of it," said Rachel Curran, who served as Harper's policy director. "He's always thought the Aga Khan was one of the leading voices in the world for the promotion of peace and pluralism."

She said the helicopter controversy reflects more on Trudeau than the Aga Khan.

"I don't think it will reflect on the work of the centre or the Aga Khan's work . . . It's a distraction for sure."

Harper, who gave the Aga Khan honorary Canadian citizenship, visited his resplendent Ismaili Centre in Dubai in January and said in a tweet that it reminded him of "what a tremendous force for global peace and pluralism the Aga Khan is."

Trudeau, meanwhile, has said the Aga Khan is a longtime family friend, dating back to the early 1970s when his father, then-prime minister Pierre Trudeau, gave sanctuary to Ismaili Muslims fleeing Ugandan despot Idi Amin.

"Liberal and Conservative prime ministers have all readily responded to the Aga Khan's interest in promoting pluralism in the world, drawing on Canada's experience," said McNee.

The centre is set up as a registered non-profit and had been operating since 2011 out of the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat, the Aga Khan Foundation's building also on Sussex Drive.

McNee said some of its previous activities have included keynote events featuring the chief justice of the Supreme Court of Canada and the architect of South Africa's post-apartheid constitution.

That's just a taste of what's to come in the centre's new home, which used to house Canada's war museum, said McNee.

There will be more speeches and public discussions, and research papers have been commissioned on the diversity challenges in places such as Bolivia, Singapore and India. There will also be a $50,000 Global Pluralism Award for an international advocate of human rights and "inclusion," said McNee.

Mike Blanchfield, The Canadian Press
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SPEECH DELIVERED BY His Highness the Aga Khan
LOCATION


Ottawa, Canada (16 May 2017)[/b]

VIDEO here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ld0uDPs ... e=youtu.be

Opening ceremony of the new headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism

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Bismillah-ir-Rahaman-ir-Rahim

Your Excellency the Governor General
Madame la Ministre
Excellencies
Fellow Directors of the Global Centre for Pluralism
Friends of the Centre

What a great day this is for all of us. And what a special ceremony, as we honour a beautiful symbol of Canada’s rich past, and rededicate it to the great cause of a pluralistic Global future.

As you know, the War Museum Building was designed well over a century ago by the great Canadian Architect, David Ewart. For its first half century, it was the home of the Dominion Archives, and then, for another half century, we knew it as the War Museum. For over one hundred years, all told, it was a place where the record of Canada’s proud and confident past was preserved and honoured.

I think you will agree with me that the past still speaks to us in this place. The architects, designers, engineers and so many others who have rehabilitated this wonderful Tudor Gothic building have taken enormous care to respect its distinctive historic character. We all join today in saluting the design and engineering team led by KPMB, the construction team, led by MP Lundy Construction, and so many other dedicated staff and volunteers who have contributed to this project.

J'aimerais partager une autre pensée alors que nous tournons nos regards vers ce passé si digne de respect. Je trouve en effet très approprié que cette cérémonie ait lieu cette année, l'année du 150ème anniversaire de la Confédération canadienne.

Je suis heureux de pouvoir me compter au nombre de ceux qui, cette année, évoquent avec une fierté particulière "notre" histoire canadienne. La raison en est bien sûr la générosité dont ce pays à fait preuve à mon égard, il y a plusieurs années, en m'octroyant le titre de citoyen honoraire du Canada.

But even as we celebrate the past today, we are also looking ahead, with joy and confidence, to a particularly exciting future.

That future has also been symbolized by those who have renewed this building, in two compelling ways.

First, they created a new garden in the forecourt, a tranquil space for contemplating the past and thinking about the future. And then, secondly, they made a dramatic new gesture for the future by opening this building to the river.

When I first visited this site, I went across the Ottawa River, to see things from the opposite side. From that perspective, I noticed that many buildings on the Ontario side had, over the years, turned their backs to the river. But as we began to plan, another possibility became evident. It seemed increasingly significant to open the site to the water.

Water, after all, has been seen, down through the ages, as the great source of life. When scientists search the universe for signs of life, they begin by looking for water. Water restores and renews and refreshes. And opening ourselves and our lives to the water is to open ourselves and our lives to the future.

In addition, the Ottawa River represents a powerful connection to other places, nearby and far away. It is not only a refreshing symbol, it is also a connecting symbol, connecting this site to the rest of Canada and the rest of the world.

Throughout the history of Canada, the Ottawa River has been a meeting place for diverse peoples, originally the First Nations, and then the British and the French, and more recently Canadians from many different backgrounds. It symbolizes the spirit of connection. And the spirit of connection, of course, is at the very heart of the Global Centre for Pluralism.

The new forecourt garden suggests that the Centre will be a place for contemplation and reflection. And the opening to the River suggests that it will also be a place for connection and engagement.

What happens at 330 Sussex Drive in the years ahead will radiate out well beyond its walls, to the entire world.

Let me emphasize a point about the concept of pluralism that is sometimes misunderstood. Connection does not necessarily mean agreement. It does not mean that we want to eliminate our differences or erase our distinctions. Far from it. What it does mean is that we connect with one another in order to learn from one another, and to build our future together.

Pluralism does not mean the elimination of difference, but the embrace of difference. Genuine pluralism understands that diversity does not weaken a society, it strengthens it. In an ever-shrinking, ever more diverse world, a genuine sense of pluralism is the indispensable foundation for human peace and progress.

From the start, this has been a vision that the Ismaili Imamat and the Government of Canada have deeply shared.

My own close association with Canada began more than five decades ago, with the coming to Canada of many thousands of Asian Ismailis, essentially as the result of Idi Amin’s anti-Asian policies in Uganda. That relationship has been re-enforced through the years as we have shared with our Canadian friends in so many great adventures, here in Canada and in other lands, including the Global Centre for Pluralism.

The Centre has been, from the start, a true partnership - a breakthrough partnership - a genuine public-private partnership. And one of my central messages today is how deeply grateful we are to all of those who have made this partnership so effective.

It was with Prime Minister Jean Chretien, that we first discussed the idea of founding a new pluralism centre, and it was Prime Minister Paul Martin who helped develop the plan. Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s government sealed the partnership and Minister Bev Oda then signed with me the establishing Agreement. Minister Mélanie Joly has also given strong support to the GCP. And Prime Minister Trudeau has articulated, with conviction and with passion, the need for pluralism in our world.

I think, too, today of so many other public servants who have helped guide this effort, including Universities Canada, the IDRC and other past and present members of the Corporation of the GCP. And I also thank the fine cooperation we have received from the Canadian Mint, who will share with us in occupying one wing of this building.

As we celebrate the progress we have made today, we also recognize the growing challenges to our mission, as nativist and nationalist threats to pluralism rise up in so many corners of the world. In responding to these challenges, the Global Centre for Pluralism has planned a variety of new initiatives. Among them are the new Global Pluralism Awards which will recognise pluralism in action around the world, as well as a distinguished series of new publications.

As we look today both to the past and to the future, we do so with gratitude to all those who have shared in this journey, and who now share in our pursuit of new dreams. Among them is someone whom we welcome today not only as a distinguished Statesman, but also as one whose personal support has inspired us all.

It is a pleasure and an honour to present to you His Excellency the Right Honorable David Johnston, the Governor General of Canada.

Thank you
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Post by kmaherali »

Global Centre for Pluralism

Hon. Mobina S. B. Jaffer: Honourable senators, earlier today, His Highness the Aga Khan, joined by the Right Honourable David Johnston, officially opened the new international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism, located at 330 Sussex Drive in Ottawa, an event I had the honour to attend.

For over four decades, the Aga Khan has invested in Canada's cultural and social fabric. The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, the Aga Khan Garden in Edmonton, the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat in Ottawa and the Ismaili Imamat Centres in Vancouver and Toronto have become iconic places for engagement and enlightenment.

The Global Centre for Pluralism, which represents a unique partnership between the Ismaili Imamat and Canada, was inspired by a shared commitment with Canada's leadership to the profound importance that pluralism must play in an interconnected world. This commitment was shared by Prime Ministers Chrétien, Martin, Harper and Trudeau, all of whom contributed to the creation of this institution.

Honourable senators, in a time where politics is becoming increasingly divisive, the Global Centre for Pluralism is a reminder that diversity is not a weakness but instead is a powerful force for good — that values of tolerance, justice, pluralism and mutual respect are very much a part of the Canadian identity.

To quote His Highness the Aga Khan:


. . . pluralism, in essence, is a deliberate set of choices that a society must make if it is to avoid costly conflict and harness the power of its diversity in solving human problems.

Our hope and expectation is that the Global Centre for Pluralism will become a vital force in our world for research, learning and dialogue, engaging Canadians from all walks of life, and joining hands with a widening array of partners.

Honourable senators, I encourage you not only to visit the Global Centre for Pluralism, which is a restoration masterpiece in its own right, but to understand how this institution can be a force in promoting global stability and harmony.

Finally, I would like to congratulate His Highness the Aga Khan, chair of the centre's board of directors, for his significant investments in different regions in Canada and for the betterment of the world.

https://sencanada.ca/en/content/sen/cha ... -05-16-e#9
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Mawlana Hazar Imam and Canadian Governor General open Global Centre for Pluralism headquarters

http://www.theismaili.org/news-events/m ... adquarters

TheIsmaili.org

17 May 2017

Ottawa, 16 May 2017 — Mawlana Hazar Imam and His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada officially opened the new international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism today.

Also see:
» AKDN press release
http://www.akdn.org/press-release/histo ... b-dialogue

and speech by Mawlana Hazar Imam

http://www.akdn.org/speech/his-highness ... -pluralism

» Video about the Global Centre for Pluralism

http://www.akdn.org/video/about-global-centre-pluralism


» Global Centre for Pluralism brief

http://www.akdn.org/sites/akdn/files/me ... _brief.pdf
» Website of the Global Centre for Pluralism

http://www.pluralism.ca/en/

The heritage building at 330 Sussex Drive that now houses the Centre was built over a century ago. It once held the archives of the Dominion of Canada, and later served as the Canadian War Museum. The building has been beautifully restored to its new purpose as the home of the Global Centre for Pluralism.

In the 150th anniversary year of Canadian confederation, “the past still speaks to us in this place,” noted Mawlana Hazar Imam. The renewed building, he said, connects “a new garden in the forecourt — a tranquil space for contemplating the past and thinking about the future” — with the magnificent and symbolic Ottawa River visible on the other side.

“Throughout the history of Canada, the Ottawa River has been a meeting place for diverse peoples, originally the First Nations, and then the British and the French, and more recently Canadians from many different backgrounds,” recounted Hazar Imam. “It symbolises the spirit of connection. And the spirit of connection, of course, is at the very heart of the Global Centre for Pluralism.”

Governor General David Johnston spoke glowingly of the mission of the Global Centre for Pluralism, and expressed gratitude to Mawlana Hazar Imam for establishing it in Canada’s capital city and “strengthening Canada’s commitment to a leadership of this issue for the world.”

The Governor General of Canada underscored the urgency of pluralism, saying that it is “critical for the long term peace and prosperity of societies worldwide.” Its success, he said, depends on developing a compelling narrative about the value of diversity.

“Pluralism will succeed if we’re able to tell the most convincing story,” said the Governor General. “Here in Canada, when we look around for this pluralism story, and listen for it, we begin to realise that in fact it isn’t a new story that we need, but a very old one that continues to unfold.”

Princess Zahra and Prince Aly Muhammad attended the event, along with a distinguished audience of more than 200. The gathering took place under a marquee erected in the gardens in front of the building. The Government of Canada was represented by the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage. John McNee, Secretary General of the Global Centre for Pluralism and its Board of Directors were also present.

Mawlana Hazar Imam and the Governor General unveiled a plaque commemorating the occasion. Earlier in the day, the two had toured the building and had an opportunity to meet privately.

The Global Centre for Pluralism is a public-private partnership between the Ismaili Imamat and the Government of Canada. The Centre’s work includes conducting research into how countries have changed their approaches to diversity, hosting seminars with global communities of experts and practitioners to deepen understanding of pluralism and its applications, and creating educational tools to help teach the values underpinning pluralism.

The Centre’s Annual Pluralism Lecture, now in its sixth year, features international leaders who have dedicated their lives to advancing respect for diversity, and a newly established, bi-annual Global Pluralism Award celebrates extraordinary examples of pluralism in action.
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The Centre welcomes newest Director

The Centre is pleased to announce Dr. Marwan Muasher has joined the Board of Directors.

Dr. Marwan Muasher
Jordan

Marwan Muasher bio

Dr. Marwan Muasher is vice president for studies at the Carnegie Endowment, where he oversees the Endowment’s research in Washington and Beirut on the Middle East. Dr. Muasher served as foreign minister (2002–2004) and deputy prime minister (2004–2005) of Jordan, and his career has spanned the areas of diplomacy, development, civil society, and communications. He was also a senior fellow at Yale University in 2010-2011.

Dr. Muasher began his career as a journalist for the Jordan Times. He then served at the Ministry of Planning, at the prime minister’s office as press adviser, and as director of the Jordan Information Bureau in Washington.

In 1995, Dr. Muasher opened Jordan’s first embassy in Israel, and in 1996 became minister of information and the government spokesperson. From 1997 to 2002, he served in Washington again as ambassador, negotiating the first free trade agreement between the United States and an Arab nation. He then returned to Jordan to serve as foreign minister, where he played a central role in developing the Arab Peace Initiative and the Middle East Road Map.

In 2004 he became deputy prime minister responsible for reform and government performance, and led the effort to produce a ten-year plan for political, economic, and social reform. From 2006 to 2007, he was at the Jordanian Senate.

Most recently, he was senior vice president of external affairs at the World Bank from 2007 to 2010.

He has authored two books, The Second Arab Awakening: And the Battle for Pluralism, published by Yale University Press in January 2014 and The Arab Center: The Promise of Moderation, also published by Yale University Press in June 2008. Dr. Muasher serves on the American University of Beirut’s board of trustees since March 2007. He lives in Amman, Jordan.

http://www.pluralism.ca/en/about/people ... board.html
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AGA KHAN
Global Centre for Pluralism looks to the future, with one foot in the past
AGA KHAN
Special to The Globe and Mail
Published Friday, May 19, 2017 12:18PM EDT
Last updated Friday, May 19, 2017 12:20PM EDT


https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/na ... e35057207/
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Centre for Pluralism


Official Opening of the Global Centre for Pluralism

Ottawa, Ontario, Tuesday, May 16, 2017



Speech by the Governor General on the occasion of the
Official Opening of the Global Centre for Pluralism.



CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY

The world is my country /
The human race is my race

Those are the words of Canadian poet and lawyer F. R. Scott, from his great poem “Creed.”

I think those words capture something of the creed of this Global Centre for Pluralism.

The world is your country.

The human race is your race.

I’ve had the pleasure of hosting a number of you who serve on the Centre’s board at Rideau Hall several times during my mandate. And I’m inspired by what all of you are achieving here.

This centre is a beacon of internationalism and humanism. It shines brightly.

Thank you all, and a special thank you to His Highness the Aga Khan for showing such dedication to pluralism and to strengthening Canada’s commitment to and leadership of this critically important issue.

Your Highness, establishing this centre in our capital city is a wonderful gift to Canada.

I often speak of the importance of knowledge diplomacy in our world, which I define as the process by which distinct peoples and cultures improve lives by sharing knowledge across borders and disciplines.

The Aga Khan is a wise practitioner of this brand of diplomacy. He appreciates that the success of our increasingly interdependent world is based on people of many faiths, cultures and values expressing tolerance, openness and understanding towards others.

The depth of His Highness’ commitment to diplomacy and pluralism is profound. I know this from personal experience. We first met at another official opening, 36 years ago, in Karachi, Pakistan. The details may differ but the underlying theme is the same: diverse peoples working together to improve lives.

Back in those days, I was serving as principal of McGill, and I had the privilege of being present at the birth of a wonderful partnership between the Aga Khan University and a number of North American universities, including McGill.

This partnership saw renowned epidemiologist Walter Spitzer and his team working closely with their Pakistani counterparts to share McGill’s lessons learned in establishing a successful community medicine model.

Thanks to this collaboration, the new Aga Khan University Hospital was able to build on McGill’s experience in deploying public health services in the community.

I was and remain so impressed by the boldness of that initiative. The goal was ambitious: bring the best of Western medicine to a country with distinct customs and traditions.

This goal was only achieved by showing a great deal of cultural sensitivity.

In essence, this is the challenge of pluralism.

How do we ensure respect for diversity while sharing ideas and resources in order to improve our lives and societies?

Your mission at the Global Centre for Pluralism is to advance respect for diversity as a new global ethic and foundation for inclusive citizenship. And these headquarters are a place for learning and sharing the lessons of pluralism from a Canadian perspective.

I’d like to say a few words about the importance of that mission, as well as Canada’s unique opportunity to lead.

First, why does pluralism matter?

The answer is as straightforward as it is urgent.

Pluralism is critical to the long-term peace and prosperity of societies worldwide. Without a commitment to pluralism, diversity can too easily become a source of conflict and division.

Too often we have seen those conflicts and that division occur.

So what do we do?

We develop a narrative and approaches that ensure diversity is properly understood as a source of strength and prosperity.

In other words, (1) we need to develop and tell a compelling story.

And (2) we need ideas and plans for action that allow that story to unfold.

If diversity is to be an asset and not a liability, we must allow diverse peoples to reach their full potential and to contribute as full and equal partners in our society. We must empower people to succeed. This is crucially important.

In other words, we must be inclusive.

Louise Arbour recently spoke about this in her new role as the UN’s special representative on international migration.

She, too, emphasizes the importance of a new narrative around pluralism.

In an interview she said:

“[We must] move away from a discourse that over-emphasizes the so-called burden of migration and bring to the surface how countries . . . have been able to harness the benefits.”

Pluralism will succeed if we’re able to tell the most convincing story. Why? Because a good story is more than just words.

A good story both reflects and creates reality.

A good story can help us to reimagine our lives and society, to imagine possibilities.

And a good story can guide us toward taking right actions for change—actions that are consistent with our story.

Let me tell you one recent story that comes out of Canada’s response to the Syrian refugee crisis—especially that of private citizens.

Here in Canada, when we look around for this pluralism story, and listen for it, we begin to realize that in fact it isn’t a new story we need, but rather a very old one that continues to unfold.

It’s a story of partnership: balanced, reciprocal and respectful.

This old story predates Canada itself, to at least the time of the Royal Proclamation in 1763, which laid the basis for the treaty relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

This year marks Canada’s 150th birthday, but as the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples reminded us a quarter-century ago:

“The first confederal bargain was with First Peoples.”

That bargain recognized we must work together if we are to survive and thrive in this vast and challenging land. And it saw several fundamental truths begin to be enshrined in law:

We are all here to stay.

And we are better off as partners.

Those truths, that story, are the beating heart of our modern, pluralistic society.

Listen to it, and hear the Confederation debates taking place in the colonial legislatures and the homes and gathering places of ordinary people in the years prior to 1867.

Listen to it, and hear more than 200 languages from around the world spoken today in Canada, and the estimated 65 Aboriginal languages spoken in Canada.

Listen to it, and hear the call to action:

Canada has an opportunity—a responsibility, perhaps—to demonstrate how pluralism is a viable, and perhaps the only, path to lasting peace and prosperity.

What is this confederation if not an exercise in pluralism among diverse peoples?

People sometimes dismiss a commitment to diversity as starry-eyed idealism.

It’s anything but. In a diverse, globalized, high-tech world, nothing could be more pragmatic than an inclusive, pluralistic society. Diversity helps us to enrich our society, to better understand other countries and to forge connections with people around the planet.

Now, I don’t need to tell you we have no reason for complacency here in Canada. Terrible, violent rejections of pluralism can and do happen here.

Where Canada has failed in the past—for example, the disastrous residential schools policy—it has been in trying to reduce diversity and restrict inclusiveness.

And where Canada has succeeded, it has been through a commitment to inclusiveness—to pluralism.

Canadian society is at its best when it mirrors its geography: broad, expansive, diverse.

Canada is a constantly evolving experiment in inclusiveness and making pluralism work. This is what positions us to tell the pluralism story not just here in Canada, but around the world.

And that is why your work at the Global Centre for Pluralism is so essential both for the Canadian experiment and for the capacity of people everywhere to live with difference—to live pluralism.

I wish you the very best in your magnificent quest, and in your beautiful new home.

Thank you.1
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AS RECEIVED


Following is a response from Khalil Andani regarding two articles on CBC.


Dear Ms. Thompson

I am writing with respect to two articles you published this week on CBC News online concerning the Aga Khan's Bell Island and the Aga Khan's visit to Canada. I understand that you must be receiving some very positive feedback on this piece of very thorough investigative journalism.

As a Chartered Accountant, former auditor, and current PhD candidate at Harvard where I academically study the history of the Ismailis and the Aga Khan, I wanted to offer a few comments and questions on your two pieces. I submit these comments to you in humility as a Canadian concerned about informed public discourse and as an academic with some expertise researching Ismaili Muslim history.

1. Your piece "Aga Khan Island..." was published the very same morning the Aga Khan was opening the Global Centre for Pluralism. As you know, the construction of the Global Centre had been announced in 2005 and has been in the works for years, leading to this week's highly anticipated opening - over 10 years in the making. It would have been beneficial to Canadians and the world for the Global Centre's opening to receive full media coverage without distraction - given the rise of populism and racism in the West. However, your article seems to have been released the same morning precisely to overshadow and direct the Canadians' attention away from the Global Centre for Pluralism's opening with the Aga Khan's visit. Was this timing intentional or necessary? Do you think it served the public interest by taking attention away from a joint Canada-Aga Khan project that aims to help the state of the world?

2. Upon reading your piece very carefully, the only fact established by your investigative journalism was the existence of offshore companies in a corporate structure being used by the Aga Khan; the rest semed to be speculative commentary and opinion by individuals who, quite frankly, know very little about the Aga Khan and his affairs. As a former auditor, I am aware that these types of corporate subsidiary arrangements are routine for international investors who own properties across the globe and the sheer existence of such structures are not evidence of tax evasion. It is not unexpected for, say, a Bahamas Island to be owned by a Bahamas registered company and for that company to be linked to "offshore" companies when the owner himself lives off shore and is not from the Bahamas. Nevertheless, this knowledge may not subsist among the Canadian public. However, the thrust of the article suggests or insinuates that the Aga Khan, by employing this structure, is intentionally evading taxes -- your article contains 6 paragraphs that mention tax avoidance or evasion, and the second article contained 4 such paragraphs. Even if this is not the intent of your article, the repeated focus on tax evasion makes it come across in such a fashion. But is there any instance over the last 60 years where the Aga Khan was found doing tax evasion? If not, then what warrants the repeated suggestion of tax evasion by the Aga Khan? Further, the Aga Khan is not resident in Canada for tax purposes, he resides in France and he is British; so why is his possible tax noncompliance, with commentary from Canadian tax experts (RCMP, FINTRAC) who know little about the Aga Khan, the main content of the article?

3. In your profession, you are aware that context is everything. Presentation or omission of contextual facts in a journalistic story changes the entire message of the story. On this note, I was curious as to why your article - which effectively suggests malevolent intentions of tax evasion by the Aga Khan - omitted and neglected to mention some key facts about his activities in Canada. For example, while you mentioned how the Canadian Government contributed $30 million to the GCP's Endowment, you neglected to mention how the Aga Khan contributed $10 million to the GCP Endowment and $35 million to the GCP's construction work totalling $45 million (as per GCP website & GCP 2017 Corporate Plan). You also failed to note how, just a few weeks ago, the Aga Khan announced he was gifting a $25 million Garden to the University of Alberta, as well as his prior construction of the $300 million dollar Aga Khan Museum in Toronto and $54 million Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat building in Ottawa. In total, over the last decade, the Aga Khan has contributed at least $425 million worth of enriching projects to Canada from his own money - but none of this was mentioned in your piece. Do you think this is an important or negligible fact for the Canadian public to know when it comes to their knowledge of the Aga Khan?

4. Finally, any investigative report about an individual which suggests unethical activity would have to present all the evidence about the character and track record of the individual. While your piece encouraged suspicions about the Aga Khan evading taxes, you did not show any facts that establish him having a past record of unethical dealings. But since the central issue is ultimately a question of an individual's ethics, your article would have benefited by including some facts on the Aga Khan's ethical track record of service to humanity and the most prestigious accolades he has received in recognition of that service. In this respect, the Aga Khan been widely recognized through worldwide honours and awards from the most prestigious institutions - including:
· 28 Title and State Decorations,
· 21 honorary degrees from various institutions including the US Ivy League,
· 16 civic honours including 9 investures as Foreign Member to several state academies;
· 30 awards spanning domains such as architecture and the built environment, restoration and the revival of culture, education, health, diplomacy and peace, philanthropy, sports, corporate enterprise;
· delivered over 70 high profile addresses including the 2015 Jodidi Lecture at Harvard University, and a 2014 Address to the Parliament of Canada.
5. While CBC's investigative reporting in your two articles was quite strong when it comes to looking up corporate structures, I am afraid there were a number of important omissions when providing a complete and integral presentation of relevant facts concerning the Aga Khan, which deserves the same amount of investigative rigour. At a time when Islamophobic attitudes are on the rise in Canada, one would expect the CBC to provide more contextualized and responsible reporting concerning the Aga Khan - one of the foremost Muslim leaders striving for a better world and representing the peaceful Islam of the majority, an Islam which is often silenced and overshadowed by political events. Projecting insinuations of tax evasion upon the Aga Khan from the sole fact of him using a corporate structure while neglecting to outline his services and contributions to Canada is a disservice to Canadians and the Aga Khan who has actually given a great deal of his time and material resources to Canada and Canadians - and has asked nothing in return.

6. Finally, if I may say so, I found your article embedding the personal YouTube Video of Sara Boyden for all CBC readers to watch in poor taste and disturbing. Sara Boyden is the Aga Khan's granddaughter and the daughter of Princess Zahra Aga Khan (one of the Directors of the Global Centre for Pluralism). She is a teenage minor and there was absolutely no reason for CBC to drag her personal recreational video into this. As you can see, she had to shut down her entire YouTube channel because of your publication, which has clearly caused her inconvenience.

I sincerely hope you consider the comments I offer above for incorporation into your current and future articles and I am available to speak by email or phone to discuss the issues. In order to not disrupt the flow of your current articles, perhaps an "About the Aga Khan" section, containing some of the above, could be placed at the bottom or in a separate box in the midst of the article. In my humble opinion, it is vital for Canadian journalists to inform public discourse in our great country with a full presentation of relevant facts. When this does not happen, we see fake news and superficial conclusions abound.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,
Khalil

--
Khalil Andani, CA-CPA, MTS - Islamic Studies (Harvard)
Doctor of Philosophy Candidate - Islamic Studies
Harvard University
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http://www.economist.com/blogs/economis ... /te/bl/ed/

What is pluralism?

A new research centre grapples with an idea that is ancient, if not eternally fashionable


May 24th 2017

by M.D. | OTTAWA

ON MAY 16th the Aga Khan (pictured, left), the spiritual leader to 15m of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslims, opened a Global Centre for Pluralism in Canada. The centre, which in a nice bit of symbolism occupies what was once a war museum in Ottawa, is meant to be a hub for research and conferences on pluralism. But what exactly does that mean?

The word can be defined in so many different ways that the organisers of the opening decided to show a video—“What is Pluralism?”—to clear things up. One common definition is the state of having more than one of anything. Ukraine can be described as a pluralistic country because of its regional and political diversity. Another, which has its roots in the medieval Roman Catholic church, means to hold more than one office or benefice at the same time. A third comes from philosophy and is the recognition of many principles, rather than an ultimate one. For example, Aristotle believed all human action aimed at happiness: not pluralistic. By contrast Martin Seligman, an author and psychologist, says the goal should be called well-being and expanded to include relationships, life satisfaction and accomplishments.

The dictionary definition that comes closest to what the new Canadian centre has in mind is the toleration or acceptance of multiple opinions, values and theories. It begins with diversity, a concept often mistaken as being interchangeable with pluralism, but does not end there. “It [pluralism] does not mean that we want to eliminate our differences or erase our distinctions,” the Aga Khan explained in his speech at the centre’s opening. “What it does mean is that we connect with one another in order to learn from one another, and to build our future together.” The Pluralism Project at Harvard University, a 26-year research project meant to educate future leaders, uses a similar definition. It holds that pluralism involves seeking understanding across cultural and religious divides, while keeping differences intact and promoting common understanding.

Pluralism in the sense the centre intends is not a new idea. Its roots can be traced to ancient philosophers in both the East and the West. Mohism, a school of thought that flourished in China between 470 and 390BC, promoted the idea that everyone must love one another impartially in order to avoid conflict. Religious pluralism existed on the Iberian peninsula during the long period of Muslim rule, from 711 to 1492. More recently the idea was popularised by Isaiah Berlin, a British philosopher and essayist. The concept has fallen in and out of fashion. It is back now as a possible antidote to rising nationalist and nativist movements around the world.
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CANADA TO OPEN GLOBAL CENTRE FOR PLURALISM; AND PHOTOS OF OPENING CEREMONY SETTING
BY NURIN AND ABDULMALIK MERCHANT


Summary: The post highlights the arrival of His Highness the Aga Khan to Ottawa for the opening of the Global Centre for Pluralism and, through a pictorial presentation, situates the Global Centre within the overall picture of Sussex Drive as well as offers glimpses of some buildings and monuments close to it.

barakah.com/
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Address by His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston at the Official Opening

VIDEO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zwu0lUYVxIE

Published on May 24, 2017
Address by His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada at the Official Opening of the Global Centre for Pluralism.

Read the Address here: http://www.pluralism.ca/en/events/off...
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KoijLHwgX7k

Cpmplete 46 minutes video.

Official Opening of the Global Centre for Pluralism, May 16, 2017

On May 16th, His Highness the Aga Khan and His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada officially opened the Centre’s new permanent headquarters at 330 Sussex Drive in Ottawa.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KoijLHwgX7k

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2017 Global Pluralism Award Finalists

In recognition of outstanding achievements to support more inclusive societies worldwide, the renowned international jury, selected 10 finalists for the inaugural 2017 Global Pluralism Award.

More..
http://award.pluralism.ca/2017-finalists/
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Pluralism Center Ottawa Award 15 Nov 2017

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https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article ... obal-award

Noble mission that made Kenyan clinch top global award

The award is sponsored by Global Centre for Pluralism founded by His Highness the Aga Khan in partnership with the Government of Canada. It features 50,000 US Dollars award kitty to further her work.

At an announcement in Nairobi on Friday ahead of the actual ceremony in Ottawa on November 15, Nderitu was celebrated as one of Kenya's unsung heroines

More on link.
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Post by kmaherali »

Join us for the livestream of the inaugural

GLOBAL PLURALISM AWARD CEREMONY

Celebrating pluralism in action

Wednesday, November 15, 2017
6pm EST

Watch the livestream on Facebook @GlobalPluralism.
Follow #PluralismAward2017 on Twitter to see live updates.

With remarks by His Highness the Aga Khan,
the Rt. Hon. Beverley McLachlin, Chief Justice of Canada
and the Rt. Hon. Joe Clark, former Prime Minister of Canada
and Chair of the Award Jury.

Learn more about the 2017 recipients.
The Global Pluralism Award recognizes pluralism in action.
It celebrates the extraordinary achievements of organizations, individuals and governments who are tackling the challenge of living peacefully and productively with diversity.

award.pluralism.ca

Founded by His Highness the Aga Khan in partnership with the Government of Canada, the Global Centre for Pluralism is an independent, charitable organization that advances respect for diversity and the benefits of inclusion around the world.
pluralism.ca
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Mawlana Hazar Imam to preside over Global Pluralism Award ceremony


Mawlana Hazar Imam is scheduled to arrive in Ottawa on 14 November to preside over the inaugural Global Pluralism Awards ceremony, being held Wednesday.


The awards will recognize a number of individuals and organizations that work to build inclusive societies around the world. You can watch the ceremony live at 6 p.m. EST, on 15 November at the.ismaili/live.

This year’s selection process saw 230 nominations from 43 countries. Three winners will be recognized at the ceremony, along with seven honourable mentions.

The awards will be presented by Mawlana Hazar Imam, who is Chairman of the Board of the Global Centre for Pluralism. The ceremony will be held at the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat.

The 2017 award winners are: Leyner Palacios Asprilla of Colombia for his work as a community leader and human rights advocate fighting for the rights of Colombian conflict victims; Kenya’s Alice Wairimu Nderitu for her work as a peacemaker, conflict mediator, and gender equality advocate, emphasizing the importance of an approach to peacemaking that values diversity; and Australian human rights lawyer Daniel Webb, a leader in protecting the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.

The ceremony will also be attended by the Rt. Hon. Beverley McLachlin, Chief Justice of Canada; the Rt. Hon. Adrienne Clarkson, Global Centre for Pluralism board member and former Governor General of Canada; and the Rt. Hon. Joe Clark, former Prime Minister of Canada and Chair of the award jury.

Other jurors include His Worship Naheed Nenshi, Mayor of Calgary; Bience Gawanas, lawyer and special adviser to the Minister of Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare of Namibia; Dante Caputo, former Foreign Minister of Argentina; and Pascale Thumerelle, former vice-president of Vivendi in France.

https://the.ismaili/mawlana-hazar-imam- ... d-ceremony

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Watch the awards ceremony live, 15 November, 6 P.M. EST
kmaherali
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Post by kmaherali »

Video: Mawlana Hazar Imam arrives in Canada

https://the.ismaili/news/video-mawlana- ... ves-canada

Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Ottawa earlier this evening, commencing a visit to Canada that will include attending the Global Pluralism Award ceremony as well as meeting with the Jamat of Eastern Canada.

AKDN Resident Representative for Canada Dr. Mahmoud Eboo, President of the Ismaili Council for Canada Malik Talib and Vice-President Karima Karmali greeted Mawlana Hazar Imam upon his arrival.
kmaherali
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Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Inclusion in action: Meet the three winners of the Global Pluralism Awards

A Colombian lawyer, a Kenyan mediator and an Australian advocate for migrants are being honoured for championing social justice. Here's what you need to know about them

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https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/na ... e36971550/

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Pluralism paves a path to inclusion

JOE CLARK AND BIENCE GAWANAS
CONTRIBUTED TO THE GLOBE AND MAIL
9 HOURS AGO
NOVEMBER 14, 2017
Joe Clark is chair of the Global Pluralism Award jury. Bience Gawanas is a member of the Global Pluralism Award jury

A new global conversation about diversity is urgently needed. While every society in the world today is diverse in some way – the West, developing countries and emerging powers – diversity is often seen as a threat. Efforts to eliminate difference and impose the will of the majority drive far too many of today's conflicts. We see this in Myanmar where Rohingya Muslims are being cruelly persecuted for their beliefs.

Fear of the "other" is on the rise. New data from Statistics Canada show that hate crimes targeting specific religious and ethno-cultural groups have increased in Canada. In Europe, an analysis of the Brexit vote by The Economist suggests fear of immigrants and refugees was the crucial factor behind the decision of Britons to leave the European Union.

Diversity is not the problem. Negative responses to diversity are the problem. Against this backdrop, it is important to highlight the efforts of people who are choosing a different path. Pluralism is the deliberate choice by governments, civil-society organizations and individuals to treat diversity as an asset rather than an automatic liability. The Global Pluralism Award, a new prize offered by the Global Centre for Pluralism, was envisioned by the Aga Khan, chair of the centre's board, as a way to celebrate extraordinary examples of pluralism in action.

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https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion ... e36977798/
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2017, November 15th

The ceremony for he Awards has now concluded. H.H. The Aga Khan presided over the ceremony with Chief Justice of Canada, The Right Honourable Beverley McLachlin. Princess Zahra attended the event.

Here are some photos of the ceremony:

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