Press Release: Queens University Journal Apologizes & Retracts!
Retraction and apology by Queens Journal
05/18/21: Following a firestorm reaction to a May 16th statement by Queens University Journal, the Editors issued a retraction today.
In a letter published on Instagram, the editors wrote, "our statement did not, in any way, represent the thoughts, feelings, or perspectives of any other Journal staff or Editorial Board as a whole. As Editors in Chief, we wholeheartedly retract our original statement.
The statement said the editors "prematurely claimed that The Journal would be making a donation to a political organization. No student fees or donations have been used, or will be used towards making political donations on behalf of The Journal". The Journal had planned to use student funds to donate to the BDS movement, recognized widely as being antisemitic.
The statement further apologizes to Israeli and Palestinian students and to Jewish and Muslim students if they were "negatively impacted by the statement".
"In my May 16th letter to Dr. Patrick Dean, the Principal and Vice Chancellor, I expressed my shock and dismay about the language used by The Journal, "especially its false premise that read: "this occupation is a result of the settler colonial state enforced by the IDF and backed by western powers". Unfortunately, this decontextualized falsehood has already influenced student who may not be as informed about historical circumstances which have led to this latest conflict", said Avi Benlolo.
For the full letter to Dr. Deane see https://www.avibenlolo.org/post/open-letter-to-queens-university-principal
It's important to recognize that many students, parents and alumna were involved in speaking out through a petition and letters. They are all to be commended for ensuring that Queens University remains an open and welcoming place for all students.
On another note, below is a short video news update about issue of great concern regarding the attack on Israel by Hamas and the outrageous assault of Jewish protestors in Toronto by Pro-Palestinian demonstrators.
Today's News Update on the situation in Israel and Canada
Please share this announcement widely. Subscribe to alerts at www.avibenlolo.org
Avi Abraham Benlolo, BA MA, Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa)
Order of Vaughan, Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal, Race Relations Award
avibenlolo@icloud.comwww.avibenlolo.org
ABOUT: Avi Abraham Benlolo has been described as the nation's most prominent and noted expert in Holocaust studies, in countering Antisemitism and promoting human rights. He has dedicated nearly three decades in executive capacities, was founding President and CEO of a major organization in the Jewish community, has raised over $150 million for charities and is a leading voice in Canada. His academic research, graduate degree, Ph.D. coursework and nearly three decades of professional work has focused on these arenas in addition to peace and security in the Middle East. He has published hundreds of articles in these areas. In recognition of his national and international leadership in this area, he has received numerous awards including an Honorary Doctorate from a prestigious Israeli university for his work in Holocaust studies and combating antisemitism; an Order of Vaughan for his distinguished contribution to anti-racism, equity and diversity; the Queens Diamond Jubilee Award for his contributions to Canada and a race relations award for best practice, based on distinguished service in promoting human rights.
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As a supporter of Israel, he is proud to have established "The Avi Benlolo Scholarship Fund in National Security" at Haifa University.