B'nai Brith 2001 Press Releases Page

September 13, 2001 — B’nai Brith Canada has extended the prayers and sympathies of the Canadian Jewish community to the brave people of the United States in letters to President George W. Bush, Governor George E. Pataki, and Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. At this trying time, all freedom loving Canadians, especially those familiar with the scourge of terror, must stand together shoulder to shoulder with our American brothers and sisters. B’nai Brith expressed its confidence that the United States would rebuild not only the bricks and mortar, but also the spirit and exuberance demonstrated by Americans every day.

Rochelle Wilner, President of B’nai Brith Canada, wrote: “As terrible as the toll from Tuesday’s attacks will be, we are confident that America will transcend it, and rise like a phoenix from the ashes. We base our confidence upon the steadfast way in which your country has fought for freedom and democracy, and in the unwavering support which the United States has maintained for its embattled friend and ally, Israel.”

Frank Dimant, Executive Vice President, continued: “The unspeakable tragedy that befell America yesterday has saddened, shocked, and angered us all. America has been dealt a harsh blow, violence that reverberates across borders. The World Trade Center and the Pentagon are institutions that demonstrate the strength of a free nation, and the principles upon which it was built. Those who despise liberty and freedom sought to tear these principles down. Today, as the smoke rises over a silent Manhattan, the golden torch of the Statue of Liberty blazes brighter than ever over a saddened but undefeated America.”

The letters concluded with the words written by Moses some 3500 years ago, with the prayer that America would be blessed with the grace and protection of the Almighty.

“May the LORD bless you and keep you;
May the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
May the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

For further details or to make a telephone pledge, please call (416) 633-6224 ext. 109

This effort is a joint initiative of B’nai Brith’s Institute for International Affairs and the Centre for Community Action.

Contiributions to our Relief Fund for Victims of Terror Attacks in the US should be directed to:
B’nai Brith Canada,
15 Hove Street,
Toronto ON M3H 4Y8

For further details on the fund or to make a telephone pledge, please call (416) 633-6224 Ext. 109

B’nai Brith has been active in Canada since 1875 as the community’s senior human rights organization. In its 125 years of service, it has worked to respond with practical aid to many disaster situations around the world.

Canadian Jewish Community Sends Prayers and Condolences to President Bush and Other American Leaders

September 13, 2001