The Time for the Majority Voice to be Heard

Hello friends.

The past few weeks have been trying times for those invested in fostering Canada-India relations. Recent events have been marked by diplomatic standoffs, social tensions, and a troubling rise in divisive rhetoric. Amid this upheaval, we must ask ourselves: Are we content with Canada’s direction? Are we considering the legacy we’re shaping for future generations—all under the banner of free speech, even as it damages our social fabric? This principle, selectively applied, is increasingly wielded as a weapon rather than a unifier.

Since its founding in 2007, Canada India Foundation has championed the goal of a strong, mutually beneficial relationship between Canada and India. While we have faced challenges and varying responses to our work, we are resolute in our commitment to bridge our nations with integrity and purpose. Criticism from those who oppose a positive bilateral relationship is a testament to the value of our mission, and it has become clear who is holding the relationship hostage to advance personal agendas. They claim to act in Canada’s interest but are steadily dismantling the principles of respect and inclusion that define our nation.

As Canadians of Indian descent, we are deeply troubled by the platform given to divisive elements within our political and administrative spheres. Their influence is pushing a foreign agenda that harms Canada’s interests, and what began as an anti-India stance has escalated to anti-Hindu hatred—a disturbing shift that targets a community known for its loyalty, peaceful contributions, and respect for both their motherland and homeland. Hindus, like all Canadians of Indian heritage, treat Canada as home, and they embody values that resonate deeply with Canadian ideals of coexistence and inclusivity.

This anti-Hindu rhetoric, fuelled by deliberate misinformation, not only harms a single community but also undermines Canada’s commitment to diversity and tolerance. Hindus in Canada, alongside other Canadians of Indian origin, have contributed meaningfully to this nation’s prosperity and vibrancy. They exemplify what it means to be loyal, law-abiding, and productive citizens. Yet, their connection to India is being twisted into accusations of foreign interference—a baseless narrative promoted by extremists and those seeking to incite division.

Crucially, the extremists propagating anti-India and anti-Hindu sentiments do not represent the majority of Indo-Canadians. In fact, most Indo-Canadians—including Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs, Muslims, and Christians—hold deep affection and respect for India and are exasperated by these extremists who misrepresent them. An overwhelming majority values harmony, supports strong Canada-India bilateral relations, and uphold values that align with Canada’s ideals of inclusivity and respect. They regard both Canada and India with pride, as complementary parts of their heritage, and wish for both nations to thrive together. These Canadians are now calling for their voices to be heard, over and above those who promote hatred and division.

Those who perpetuate these hostilities misunderstand that love for one’s heritage can coexist with loyalty to one’s country. Indo Canadians, like many others, have shown time and again that Canada’s welfare is their top priority. In contrast, it is the very extremists who question others’ loyalties while advancing foreign agendas and harming Canada’s interests. Such individuals, loyal to neither homeland nor heritage, have no right to question the integrity of others.

In response to this concerning landscape, Canada India Foundation is stepping forward, committed to a leadership role in uniting Canadians around a common goal of strengthening Canada-India ties and restoring harmony. We believe that now, more than ever, it is vital to support and engage every individual, organization, and leader who values Canada’s inclusive spirit and wishes to build a resilient relationship with India. Our foundation is here to support this mission actively, to serve as a platform for all who wish to safeguard Canada’s interests while honouring its rich diversity.

We invite every Canadian—regardless of background, faith, or descent—who is committed to standing against extremism and fostering unity, to join us in this important work. Together, we can counter the voices that seek to divide communities under the guise of ideology, religion, or ethnicity. Canada’s diversity is its strength, not a point of contention, and the Canada India Foundation pledges to protect this legacy.

In our commitment to strengthening Canada-India relations, we are here to foster dialogue, bridge understanding, and support those who champion a united, inclusive Canada. We must reject the forces of hatred and reaffirm our shared commitment to a Canada that values every citizen. The time to act is now, for Canada’s future depends on our collective resolve.

Let’s come together and let the majority’s voice be heard. Canada needs us to answer this call for unity, now more than ever.

Thank you.