This book represents the tireless efforts of a retired husband and wife team to document and preserve the history and culture of immigrant Muslims who have settled in Saskatchewan, Canada. Arriving in Canada in 1973, Naiyer Habib (Cardiologist and Medical Administrator), and his wife Mahlaqa, who holds a Masters degree in political science, began establishing numerous civic and cultural organizations based in their faith, such as the Islamic Association and the Canadian Council of Muslim Women. Their intention was to establish and strengthen connections with other Muslims scattered throughout the region. Now, both having retired, they have sought to document the presence of an established Muslim community in the region, for themselves and future generations.
The book reads best as a reference volume, primarily consisting of photos and photocopied letters, newspaper articles and documents. There are, however, some important preambles before the presentation of certain documents expressing Islamic Association concerns over such public policy issues as condoms in schools or the Gulf War. These preambles and the material collected indicate a clear and continuing concern for matters outside the local region. The book admirably highlights the intention of this immigrant group to integrate into local society, while sustaining critical aspects of culture and religion. It is exhaustively researched, presenting extensive information about Muslim civic activities in the greater Saskatchewan area in an organized format. History of the Muslims of Regina, Saskatchewan, and Their Organizations can serve as an excellent reference for anyone needing to gather material about the history of Muslim expatriate communities in Canada, either for family or civic purposes.
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