March 9, 2017
By Tevy Pilc
Staff Writer/Researcher
B’nai Brith Canada
More than 25 community leaders and human rights activists gathered for a special meeting of the League for Human Rights’ Special Advisory Council on March 7, 2017 at the B’nai Brith Canada National Headquarters in Toronto.
Now entering its 10th year, the Special Advisory Council to the League for Human Rights of B’nai Brith Canada is a panel of community leaders from over 35 nationalities and backgrounds that offers help, direction and guidance to advocacy efforts, as well as hosting speakers panels and other types of events.
Joining Tuesday’s meeting were members of the York Regional Police Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Bureau.
“We’ve been so fortunate to have a diverse membership reflective of the new face of Canada,” said Dr. Aubrey Zidenberg, Chair of the Special Advisory Council and Vice President of B’nai Brith International. “We have this ‘United Nations’ of friends in this council where we can effectively address community concerns and problems and determine solutions to solve them.”
Giving special addresses were Majed El Shafie, president and founder of One Free World International and Ardeshir Zarezadeh, Executive Director at The International Center for Human Rights – ICHR.
Members were also presented with Certificates of Appreciation for their contributions to the committee, community and human rights.
“I was honoured and proud along with B’nai Brith Canada CEO Michael Mostyn to present members with Certificates of Appreciation recognizing their devotion to Human Rights volunteerism,” said Zidenberg. “Our council has over 35 members reflective of the diversity of Canada and act as our liaisons to each of their communities – some for as many as ten years. It’s a great moment in the 143 year history of our organization.”
“We need this committee now more than ever,” said Mostyn. “These are different and diverse groups working together for a common cause of standing firmly against radicaliztion and racism.”
For more information about the Special Advisory Council to the League for Human Rights, please contact [email protected].
