This alternative to trial is what the Canadian Society of Muslims has been working for since 1986. The mediation program has been in Toronto since last June, and is currently being phased in across the province. Fundamental aspects of Islam require Muslims to act according to specific laws in the Qur an, the holy Muslim scriptures. Islam teaches followers to act according to specific laws of the Qur an regarding individual responsibilities. These laws are known as personal law and deal with questions concerning marriage, divorce, inheritance and child guardianship.
Personal law is part of Muslim law and deals with matters that affect the individual directly.
President of the organization, Syed Mumtaz Ali appeals to the Charter of Rights to defend his claim for recognition of Muslim law. Not being able to live by Muslim law, explains Ali, means you can not exercise freedom of religion guaranteed under the Charter. It s an integral part of the religion. Muslims have no choice but to follow it and obey it. The society s campaign was attempting to legitimize Muslim law in Canada.