Two women of Pakistani origin, Iqra Khalid and Salma Zahid, have been re-elected to Canada’s Parliament, marking a proud achievement for the Pakistani diaspora and highlighting the growing contributions of Pakistani-Canadians to Canadian public life.
Liberal incumbent Iqra Khalid secured her fourth consecutive term in Mississauga—Erin Mills, winning by a margin of over 5,000 votes against her opponent. Overcome with emotion, Khalid embraced her father as celebrations erupted. Originally from Pakistan, Khalid immigrated to Canada in 1998.
She pursued studies in criminology at York University and law at the University of Michigan before entering public service.
Khalid has served as the chair of the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights and introduced Motion 103 in Parliament, advocating for a national strategy to combat systemic racism and religious discrimination. She has frequently spoken with pride about her Pakistani heritage and credits her roots for inspiring her dedication to justice and equality.
Meanwhile, Salma Zahid won her seat in Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East, garnering 21,000 votes. Zahid, who holds an MBA from Quaid-e-Azam University in Islamabad and a Master’s degree from the University of London, was first elected in 2015.
Prior to her political career, she worked in the Ontario civil service and served as a community organizer, supporting women and youth.
She is a strong advocate for minority rights and multiculturalism, raising important issues such as the oppression of the Rohingya Muslims and championing the Canada-Palestine Parliamentary Friendship Group.
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