Tarek Fatah was a Pakistani-Canadian journalist and author known for his advocacy for liberal and progressive forms of Islam, opposition to sharia law, and support for the separation of religion and state.
He was a vocal critic of the Pakistani religious and political establishment, and referred to himself as “an Indian born in Pakistan” and “a Punjabi born into Islam”.
Tarek Fatah Early Life and Education:
He was a trained journalist and began his career as a reporter for Pakistan Television before moving to Canada in the 1980s.
Tarek Fatah was born on November 20, 1949, in Lahore, Pakistan, to parents who were involved in the independence movement.
He grew up in a family that was politically and socially active, which influenced his later activism.
Fatah completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Karachi.
Tarek Fatah Career and Books:
Tarek started his career as a journalist in Pakistan, working for several newspapers and magazines. He later moved to Saudi Arabia, where he worked for a newspaper in Riyadh.
After moving to Canada in the early 1980s, he worked for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and then became a freelance journalist.
Fatah was the founder of the Muslim Canadian Congress, which is a group that advocates for the separation of religion and state, and a more liberal and progressive approach to Islam.
He was a prolific writer and authored several books, including “Chasing a Mirage: The Tragic Illusion of an Islamic State” and “The Jew is Not My Enemy: Unveiling the Myths that Fuel Muslim Anti-Semitism”.
Tarek Fatah Personal Life and Relationships:
Tarek was a devoted husband and father. He was married to his wife, Christine Williams, for over 30 years, and they had one daughter together.
His wife and daughter have maintained a low profile and have not been involved in the public eye. Fatah’s ethnicity was Punjabi, and he was a Muslim.
He was a vocal critic of the Pakistani religious and political establishment and was known for his opposition to the RSS in India.
In his free time, Tarek enjoyed reading, writing, and listening to music.
He was a fan of classical Indian music and was known to attend concerts and performances.
Tarek was a frequent user of social media, particularly Twitter, where he had a large following.
He used the platform to express his views on various issues related to Islam, politics, and society.
He was a strong believer in the power of social media to facilitate political and social change and was frequently engaged with supporters and critics alike.
Also Read: Molly Gordon: Wiki, Bio, Age, Height
Tarek Fatah Views on Politics and Leaders:
Tarek was known for his outspoken criticism of the Pakistani government and religious leaders.
He was also critical of the Indian government’s handling of communal violence, particularly during the Gujarat riots.
However, he expressed support for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, despite criticism from some quarters.
Tarek Fatah Death:
Tarek’s health had been deteriorating in recent years, and he had been admitted to the hospital several times.
On April 24, 2023, he passed away at the age of 73. The cause of his death has not been made public.
Tarek Fatah Political Activism and Controversies:
Tarek was known for his political activism, particularly his opposition to religious extremism and his support for secularism.
He was involved in several controversies over the years, including his criticism of the Muslim Brotherhood and his comments on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
He was also a vocal critic of the Canadian government’s policies on immigration and multiculturalism.
Tarek Fatah Television and Radio Appearances:
Tarek was a regular commentator on various television and radio programs in Canada and abroad.
He appeared on several shows, including CBC’s The Current, The Agenda with Steve Paikin, and BBC’s Dateline London.
He was also a frequent guest on talk radio shows, where he discussed issues related to Islam and politics.
Tarek International Recognition and Awards:
Tarek Fatah’s work as a journalist and human rights activist earned him international recognition and several awards.
In 2013, he received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his contributions to Canada.
He was also recognized by the United Nations Association in Canada for his work promoting human rights and social justice.
Tarek Fatah Interfaith Dialogue and Outreach:
Tarek was a strong advocate for interfaith dialogue and outreach.
He was involved in several initiatives aimed at promoting understanding and cooperation between different communities, including the Muslim-Jewish Dialogue and the Canadian Interfaith Conversation.
Fatah was a fierce critic of both Islamist extremism and far-right nationalism.
He was vocal in his opposition to groups like the Taliban and ISIS, but also spoke out against anti-Muslim bigotry and racism.
Fatah was a strong supporter of the Indian independence movement and had criticized the partition of India.
He believed that religious and cultural differences should be celebrated, rather than used as a basis for conflict.
Tarek Fatah Public Speaking Engagements:
Tarek was a sought-after public speaker, delivering talks on a range of topics related to Islam, politics, and human rights.
He spoke at various conferences and events, including the Oslo Freedom Forum and the Women in the World Summit.
He was also a regular speaker at universities and colleges, where he engaged with students on issues related to diversity and inclusion.
Tarek Philanthropy and Social Causes:
Tarek was a strong supporter of various philanthropic and social causes.
He was involved in several initiatives aimed at addressing issues related to poverty, education, and healthcare.
He was a patron of the Akshaya Patra Foundation, which provides midday meals to school children in India, and supported various charities focused on promoting human rights and social justice.
Fatah was a strong advocate for animal rights and supported several organizations dedicated to animal welfare. He was a vegetarian and believed that ethical treatment of animals was an important issue.
Tarek Fatah Influence on Pop Culture and Media:
Fatah’s work and activism had a significant impact on pop culture and media.
He was the subject of a feature article in the New York Times Magazine and was profiled in several other publications, including the Toronto Star and the Globe and Mail.
He was also the inspiration for a character in the popular Canadian television show, Little Mosque on the Prairie.
Tarek Fatah Advocacy for Muslim Women’s Rights:
Tarek was a strong advocate for Muslim women’s rights.
He was critical of traditional interpretations of Islam that limited the role and rights of women, and supported efforts to empower women within Muslim communities.
He was involved in several initiatives aimed at addressing issues such as forced marriage, honors killings, and domestic violence.
Tarek Fatah Collaborations with other Activists and Organizations:
Tarek collaborated with other activists and organizations to promote human rights and social justice.
He worked with groups such as Amnesty International, the Canadian Council for Refugees, and the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives on various initiatives.
He was also a mentor to many young activists, and supported efforts to cultivate the next generation of leaders.
Tarek Advocacy for Free Speech and Academic Freedom:
Tarek was a strong advocate for free speech and academic freedom.
He believed that open and honest dialogue was essential for progress and social change, and was critical of attempts to stifle dissent or silence unpopular opinions.
He supported efforts to protect the rights of individuals to express their views without fear of retribution or censorship.
Tarek Fatah Support for the LGBTQ+ Community:
Tarek was a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.
He believed that all individuals should be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
He was involved in several initiatives aimed at promoting LGBTQ+ rights, including Pride Toronto and the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.
Tarek Environmental Activism:
Tarek was a strong advocate for environmental protection and sustainability.
He believed that climate change was one of the greatest challenges facing humanity, and supported efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy.
He was involved in several environmental initiatives, including Earth Day and the World Wildlife Fund.
Tarek Legacy and Influence:
Fatah’s legacy as an activist and journalist continues to inspire many people around the world.
His advocacy for progressive and liberal forms of Islam, opposition to sharia law, and support for human rights and social justice remain relevant today.
His work has also influenced the discourse on Islam and politics in Canada and beyond, and his contributions to the promotion of tolerance and inclusivity have left a lasting impact.
Tarek Fatah Information Table:
| Name | Tarek Fatah |
|---|---|
| Wife | Nargis Tapal |
| Daughter | Natasha Fatah |
| DOB | 20 november, 1949
Karachi, Sindh, West Pakistan |
| Death date | 24 april, 2023
Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| Age at death | 73 |
| Death cause | Cancer |
| Nationality |
|
| Home town | Karachi, Pakistan |
| College | University of Karachi |
| Height | 5.6 feet |
| Weight | 75 kg |
| Eye | Black |
| Hair | Salt and pepper |
| Zodiac | Scorpio |
| Degree | Degree in Biochemistry |
| Religion | Islam |
Tarek Social Media:
Some Lesser Known Facts about Tarek
Tarek was a classically trained vocalist and had a passion for Indian classical music.
He was known to attend concerts and was an avid collector of rare recordings.
FAQs:
1: Who is Tarek Fatah?
Tarek Fatah was a Pakistani-Canadian journalist and author known for his advocacy for liberal and progressive forms of Islam, opposition to sharia law, and support for the separation of religion and state.
2: What is the age of Tarek Fatah at the time of death?
On April 24, 2023, he passed away at the age of 73.
3: What are the books of Tarek Fatah?
He was a prolific writer and authored several books, including “Chasing a Mirage: The Tragic Illusion of an Islamic State” and “The Jew is Not My Enemy: Unveiling the Myths that Fuel Muslim Anti-Semitism”.
4: When did Tarek Fatah was born?
20 november, 1949 [Karachi, Sindh, West Pakistan].
Also read: Who is Nidhi Mahawan? Wiki, bio, age
Subscribe to Wikibiography to get the latest updates about Tarek Fatah.
