A coalition of Canadian human rights groups led by One Free World International (OFWI) are calling for Chinese Ambassador Lu Shaye to begin a truth and accountability dialogue with Canadians to address human rights concerns. The coalition chose Human Rights Day to reflect on the ongoing systematic persecution of religious minorities and political dissidents in defiance of international law. The coalition also requests a meeting with Prime Minister Trudeau to explore opportunities for Canada to be more impactful in advancing the cause of human rights in China.
Chatelaine gives voice to Yazidi women
"When Adiba Dasni* arrived at Toronto Pearson Airport last February, after a 15-hour flight from Iraq with two sisters and six children in tow, the Prime Minister was not waiting at the airport to greet them. There were no camera crews, no volunteers waving little Canadian flags. In fact, the Dasni family’s arrival paints a very different picture from the one conveyed by news coverage of Syrian refugees arriving to open arms in 2015."
OFWI brings your voice to Capitol Hill
Following on the heels of his well-received op ed published by The Hill, Rev. El Shafie travelled to Washington, D.C. to meet with Members and staff of the United States Congress to discuss the important work of One Free World International.
Humanitarian Relief Campaign: Iraq & Syria
Yazidis survived a genocide by ISIS and are fighting to preserve their faith and homeland. Coalition forces continue to drive ISIS from Mosul in Iraq and are fighting to eliminate ISIS from their stronghold in Raqqa. As the military campaign to against ISIS and their campaign of genocide intensifies, thousands of civilians are being caught in the cross-fire and pushed from their homes.
Speak up for persecuted Rohingya
Tensions between the Buddhist majority and Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar have existed for many years. The Rohingya are considered illegal Bengali immigrants and are constantly denied recognition from the government of Myanmar. The 1982 Citizenship Law denied the Rohingya’s citizenship despite the people living in the region for generations. The Rohingya have been fleeing Myanmar because of the restrictions and policies placed by the government and more recently because of the violence committed by the state.