The Regina City Jamia Masjid (RCJM) broadcasted its first live outdoor call to prayer on Friday, a significant milestone for the Muslim community in downtown Regina. The event took place at the mosque, located in the heart of the city, and was met with a mix of support and curiosity from passersby.
Historic Broadcast Marks New Era
According to M Anisur Rahaman, who provided a photo of the event, the call to prayer was broadcast using outdoor speakers, allowing the sound to carry through the surrounding area. This marks the first time such a broadcast has been conducted in downtown Regina, reflecting the growing diversity of the city's population.
The decision to broadcast the call to prayer was made after consultations with local authorities and community members, ensuring that it would be respectful and not disruptive. The mosque has been working to build bridges with the broader community, and this event is seen as a step toward greater interfaith understanding.
Community Reactions and Significance
Local residents expressed a range of reactions. Some praised the move as a symbol of inclusivity, while others raised concerns about noise levels. However, the mosque emphasized that the broadcast would be limited to specific times and volumes to minimize disturbance.
"This is a proud moment for our community," said a spokesperson for RCJM. "We hope this fosters a greater appreciation for our traditions and opens doors for dialogue." The call to prayer, known as the adhan, is recited five times daily and is a fundamental practice in Islam.
Broader Context of Religious Expression in Canada
The broadcast comes amid ongoing discussions about religious expression in public spaces in Canada. Similar calls to prayer have been permitted in other Canadian cities, including Toronto and Edmonton, often with guidelines to manage sound levels. In Regina, the move aligns with the city's efforts to promote multiculturalism and religious freedom.
According to the 2021 census, Muslims make up about 4.9% of Canada's population, with numbers growing in cities like Regina. The RCJM serves as a central hub for the local Muslim community, offering prayers, educational programs, and community events.
