Honourable senators, October is Islamic Heritage Month, and today I rise to commemorate it. It is a time dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the rich heritage and profound contributions of Muslim communities across Canada.

This month is an invitation for us to reflect not only on the depth of Islamic civilization but also on how its living traditions have enriched the fabric of Canadian life.

Muslim Canadians continue to help shape our country’s story. Their achievements in the arts, sciences, education and public service carry a legacy that stretches back more than a thousand years and was built on knowledge, creativity and compassion.

You have heard me speak of ancient physicians like Ibn Sīnā and Al-Zahrāwī. You have heard me quote Sufi poets like Rūmī and Hāfez. They were historical figures guided by a spirit of discovery that allowed them to make significant contributions to their respective fields, which, in turn, immortalized their names and legacies.

This same spirit of discovery remains alive today in classrooms, laboratories and workplaces across Canada, where Muslim Canadians contribute daily to our schools, hospitals, businesses and communities.

Even in this chamber, six senators represent approximately 2 million Muslims: Senators Al Zaibak, Gerba, Mohamed, Ravalia, Yussuff and I.

But Islamic Heritage Month is more than just accomplishments. It is also about values — ones that resonate deeply with the ideals of our nation: hospitality that welcomes the stranger as a friend, curiosity that seeks to understand the world more deeply and creativity that brings beauty into everyday life.

We see these in the emphasis on knowledge, respect, generosity and community — the same principles that lie at the heart of Canada’s multicultural identity.

This month gives us the opportunity to listen and learn from one another; to explore the rich traditions of Islamic art, music and storytelling; and to recognize the contributions of generations of Muslim Canadians who have helped build a more inclusive and compassionate country.

It challenges us not only to remember the past but also to commit ourselves to the present and build a legacy that turns respect into bridge-building, admiration into action and curiosity into conversation.

In closing, as I do quite often, I turn to Rūmī, who reminds us that, “In every religion there is love, yet love has no religion.” May our words, thoughts and actions this month and beyond be a worthy reflection of this universal love. Thank you.