Apr 10, 2003
Antisemitism

Recent antisemitic, anti-Muslim incidents raise concern from CJC, QR
When intolerance is allowed to go unnoticed, it gains momentum

MONTREAL — Canadian Jewish Congress, Quebec Region (CJC, QR), officials have reacted with concern to the hateful message delivered to students of the Muslim Schools of Montreal secondary campus in the form of graffiti, a swastika and ‘Mort aux Arabes’ on the wall of the school earlier this week.

“This is but one of a growing number of incidents which should serve as a wake-up call to all Quebecers,” noted Joseph Gabay, CJC, QR President. “Only last week we saw several reports of Mezuzot being pulled off the doorways of Jewish homes (Mezuzzot, affixed on the doorposts of Jewish homes, are cases containing a prayer that is a fundamental affirmation of the Jewish faith.) When intolerance is allowed to go unnoticed, be it in the form of hate directed at Jews, Muslims or any identifiable group, it gains momentum. We expect Quebec leaders to deplore such incidents, swiftly and clearly.”

“We cannot allow the destructive ambitions of those who seek to further hatred, to challenge Quebec’s well-earned reputation for openness and diversity.” Mr. Gabay said. “Be it Jewish students at Concordia University, who have suffered all forms of harassment and hostility over the past two years, or Muslim youth confronted with hateful epithets as they head home from school, all Quebecers, and particularly our political leaders, must stand up to decry all forms of racism and intolerance.”