Québec solidaire co-spokesperson, Ruba Ghazal, has been inundated with hateful messages on social media, including threats and insults. In a recent video, the Lebanese-born MNA for Mercier in Montreal exposed the racist and violent nature of these messages, some of which she has reported to the police.
Ghazal highlighted the serious issue of violence against women by reading out disturbing comments she received online. One message, in particular, stated, “We know your addresses, as well as those of your families. Watch yourselves closely, we’re going to rid Quebec of you.” Another comment belittled her leadership role, suggesting she should focus on having children instead.
Expressing her concerns, Ghazal emphasized that such abusive comments are unacceptable and alarming, not only for herself but also for other women who face similar attacks. She stressed the need to address and denounce this type of online harassment, especially during the 12 Days of Action Against Violence Against Women ahead of the anniversary of the 1989 Polytechnique massacre.
Despite welcoming criticism of her policies, Ghazal made it clear that threatening language and violence have no place in public discourse. She disclosed that she is often targeted due to her advocacy for feminist causes, her immigrant background, and her outspoken views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Asserting her determination to speak out against such behavior, Ghazal declared, “We will not be silenced. We will continue to claim our rightful place as women. In Quebec, women have fought for their place. No one, absolutely no one, will succeed in silencing us.”
