Justin Trudeau brushes off complaints about appearance at Islamic convention

Justin Trudeau is brushing off criticism about his upcoming keynote speech at an Islamic convention.

His appearance at the Reviving the Islamic Spirit event later this month has been attacked by an anti-Islamism website and those complaints have been picked up by some mainstream media outlets.

The critics have raised concerns about radical views and the alleged affiliation of other speakers at the event later this month.

They have also pointed to alleged ties between major conference sponsors and the Islamic militant group Hamas.

Trudeau is making no apologies for his appearance.

When asked at a news conference this week about the controversy, Trudeau said he doesn’t share the critics’ concerns and he accuses them of trafficking in misinformation.

He says he’s proud to participate at an event that tries to bridge the gap between the reality for Muslim Canadians and mainstream Canada.

Trudeau says politicians from all parties have spoken at the annual Toronto event — including former New Democrat leader Jack Layton a few years ago.

A spokeswoman for the convention says the criticism is an example of broader fear-mongering about Muslims.

Farhia Ahmed says the allegations about malicious activities linked to event speakers and sponsors have not been proven.

She says the organizers do not condone any negative behaviour or activities.