October 13, 2010
To the Editor,
B’nai Brith Canada regrets that Canada was forced to withdraw its bid for a seat at the UN Security Council. However, of particular concern are the efforts of the Canadian Arab Federation to exclude Canada from taking its rightful place on the world stage.
In advance of the vote, an email was widely circulated by Khaled Mouammar, head of the Canadian Arab Federation, titled ‘Don’t Give Canada a Security Council Seat’. CAF’s Mr. Mouammar also made a comment in advance of the vote which appears on the Al Jazeerah website stating, "…it is feared that if Canada gains a seat in the UN Security Council, it may be used against Arabs and Muslims around the world."
"Despite purporting to be advocates of Canadian values, the Canadian Arab Federation actively lobbied against their country thereby trying to shame and divide Canada", says Frank Dimant, Executive Vice President of B’nai Brith Canada.
"It is utterly disappointing to know that an organization containing within its name ‘Canada’ campaigned to undermine Canadian efforts to obtain a seat on the UN Security Council. Canada should instead be commended for its continued participation in global foreign affairs and its support of countries in need."
At a time when strength and unity are required to face ongoing national and international challenges, the Canadian Arab Federation has engendered a divisive relationship between Arab Canadians and their fellow citizens.
Ariell Gertel, Communications Officer, B’nai Brith Canada