For Immediate Release
Toronto — B’nai Brith Canada today welcomed the decision of the Saskatchewan Justice Department to lay charges against David Ahenakew.
Rochelle Wilner, National President, commented: “We applaud the decision of the Saskatchewan Justice Department to proceed with charges against David Ahenakew, as we had requested. At the same time, we will continue our efforts to promote understanding between the Jewish and aboriginal communities.”
“This decision demonstrates that the justice system can act if necessary to protect minority Canadians against the promotion of hatred when there is the will to act,” added Frank Dimant, Executive Vice-President.
David Matas, B’nai Brith Senior Legal Counsel added: “We explored the use of the aboriginal justice system as an alternative to the laying of charges, but we understood that the initiative had to come from Ahenakew himself. We are disappointed that he did not show that initiative, but would still support using that system for sentencing if he is convicted and if he initiates the process.”
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For further information contact: Joseph Ben-Ami, Director of Communications at 613-294-7313
B’nai Brith has been active in Canada since 1875 as the community’s foremost advocacy and volunteer organization.
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