For Immediate Release
Toronto, September 10, 2002 — In light of threats by anti-Israel groups to stop Benjamin Netanyahu from carrying out his Toronto speaking engagement tonight, B’nai Brith Canada has been in close contact with police and other authorities to discuss security measures in place for the event.
Rochelle Wilner, National President of B’nai Brith Canada stated: “We have been assured by police that all necessary precautions have been taken to prevent a repeat of the ugly violence by pro-Palestinian demonstrators in Montreal. However, we have to bear in mind that these rioters were able to publicly threaten and attack students and visitors in full view of police and campus security and that there are plans to bus in Montreal protestors to disrupt the Toronto event.”
Frank Dimant, Executive Vice President stated: “The leadership of the Palestinian cause in Canada has failed in their responsibility to ensure that their supporters act with restraint and respect for the rights of others. Using violence and intimidation to silence other points of view may be the way things are done in certain Middle East dictatorships, but in Canada we must uphold the democratic principles that allow every community the right to speak out within the limits of the law.”
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To discuss security concerns regarding tonight’s events, contact Rochelle Wilner at (416) 254-1010 or Frank Dimant at (416) 802-1057
B’nai Brith has been active in Canada since 1875 as the community’s foremost advocacy and volunteer organization.
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