Statement: Canada Must Reject Inflammatory Demand by Human Rights Watch
04/28/21: Canada must denounce an inflammatory Human Rights Watch (HRW) report that accuses Israel of "crimes of apartheid and persecution". It must reject HRW's demand to take action against Israel.
Canadian media unfairly regurgitated the HRW report's assertions and in one case, a major television network (CP24) ran a news feed supporting this demand. This is despite the fact the HRW report has been vigorously condemned by Israel and leading rights activists.
Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East. Its Arab population is treated equally and equitably according to the country's constitution. Over the last number of years especially, we have seen an accelerated process of integration of Arab citizens into all aspects of Israeli society including its military, international diplomacy and membership in its parliament (Knesset).
Canada must demand a withdrawal of HRW's inflammatory report which unfairly maligns Israel; and does not find solutions for peace nor place equal responsibility on the Palestinian Authority and Hamas. The report will ultimately be used by local and international agitators who have also fuelled antisemitism around the world.
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Avi Abraham Benlolo is available to provide media with a counterbalance to the assertions made in the report. Please email him at avibenlolo@icloud.com
Avi Abraham Benlolo, BA MA, Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa)
Order of Vaughan, Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal, Race Relations Award
avibenlolo@icloud.com www.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.
Mansour Abbas, leader of the United Arab List, votes at a polling station in the northern village of Maghar - Arab Israelis enjoy freedom and democracy in Israel