Arabica by NCCAR - February 2026 newsletter

Rania Hamdan
Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:20:00 -0500

NCCAR Statement on Regional Escalation and the Need for Diplomacy

Ottawa - Amid rising regional tensions following recent military strikes, NCCAR reaffirms its commitment to international law, peaceful resolution, and the protection of civilian life.

The National Council on Canada-Arab Relations (NCCAR) is deeply concerned about the recent military escalation following strikes on Iran and subsequent regional tensions. This dangerous escalation jeopardizes international peace and security and risks dragging the world further into conflict.

We call on the Government of Canada to set aside political divisions and urgently support diplomatic efforts and peaceful de-escalation through the United Nations and other international forums. Military action threatens to further destabilize the region, increase the risk of wider conflict, and endanger civilian populations across the region.

As United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres stated:
“I condemn today’s military escalation … The use of force … undermines international peace and security.”

“I call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation … I strongly encourage all parties to return immediately to the negotiating table.”

Canada must stand firmly for diplomacy, the rule of international law, and a peaceful resolution that prevents further bloodshed and protects civilians everywhere.

NCCAR is a not-for-profit charitable organization based in Ottawa, dedicated to promoting understanding and awareness of the cultural, historical, and socio-economic realities of the Arab world. Your support is vital—donate today and help us continue our work for positive impact.

Community Iftar Dinner- March 16-2026

NCCAR will be hosting a Community Iftar Dinner on Monday, March 16, 2026, at Les Grillades (111 Colonnade Road, Nepean, Ottawa).

Held as part of NCCAR’s Dardachat series, this family-oriented gathering will provide an opportunity for community members to share a meal, reconnect, and strengthen relationships. The evening will include meaningful discussion about NCCAR’s outreach, priorities, and collective efforts, grounded in a spirit of unity and collaboration.

As the community gathers to break the fast during Ramadan, NCCAR also welcomes those observing Lent and members of our broader, diverse community. The evening reflects our shared commitment to inclusivity, dialogue, and building NCCAR’s future together.

Click here For Tickets and to RSVP

The Road to Federal Recognition, Bill S-227
Arab Heritage Month

The effort to formally recognize Arab Heritage Month at the federal level has been years in the making. Led by advocacy from the Canadian Arab Instituteand community partners across the country, the effort aims to officially designate April as Arab Heritage Month in Canada.

In February 2022, Member of Parliament David McGuinty introduced Bill C-232 in the House of Commons of Canada. The bill received unanimous support and later passed third reading. However, after advancing to the Senate of Canada, the legislation lapsed following the prorogation of Parliament in early 2025.

The initiative was reintroduced in June 2025 by Senator Mohammad Al Zaibakas Bill S-227. The bill has since passed the Senate and advanced to second reading in the House of Commons. It is currently under review by the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage.

Working with the Community

NCCAR will be convening members, partners, and government representatives for a series of informed discussions examining the bill’s legislative pathway and its broader implications for the Arab Canadian community. These sessions will provide space to analyze the bill’s progress, understand its potential impact, and engage thoughtfully with Canada’s parliamentary process.

Further details will be shared in the coming weeks as we continue to follow the bill’s advancement.

Join NCCAR and shape the next chapter of Arab-Canadian leadership and community impact. Whether through membership, donations, or volunteering. Every contribution strengthens our mission to build bridges, foster civic engagement, and create lasting opportunities for generations to come.

Get involved today and be part of the change.

NCCAR is a not-for-profit charitable organization based in Ottawa, dedicated to promoting understanding and awareness of the cultural, historical, and socio-economic realities of the Arab world. Your support is vital—donate today and help us continue our work for positive impact.

For more information about NCCAR and our upcoming events,
visit www.nccar.ca. Media inquiries: nccar@nccar.ca. Follow us onFacebook, Instagram, and Twitter @NCCAR_ to stay connected.