THE CANADIAN ISLAMIC CONGRESS
MEDIA COMMUNIQUE
June 1, 2006
ISLAMIC CONGRESS PRAISES CUPE LEADERSHIP
FOR RESOLUTION AGAINST ISRAEL'S OPPRESSION OF PALESTINIANS
The Canadian Islamic Congress issued a strong endorsement today in support
of the boycott resolution against Israel's apartheid policies, approved
Saturday by Ontario members of CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees).
During the largest provincial convention in CUPE history, held May 24-27 in
Ottawa, an overwhelming majority of the 900 delegates, representing some
200,000 public sector workers, voted to support a growing international
campaign of boycott, divestment and sanctions until Israel meets its
obligations: to recognize the Palestinian people's inalienable right to
self-determination; and to fully comply with international law, including
UN Resolution 194 calling for the right of return of Palestinian refugees.
A CIC letter sent to CUPE's national and provincial executive and
membership said in part: "We realize that CUPE's decision was not taken
lightly and that your organization is bound to draw vehement protest from
various pro-Israel interests in this country. But we have seen through
recent history that the days of 'Israel can do no wrong' are numbered and
that Israelis can never fully mature as a state until they accept the fact
of Palestine and Palestinians ... Thank you for doing the right thing - we
sincerely hope many other social activist organizations in Canada will
follow your example. Together we will build a strong and loud voice for
peace through justice."
In July 2005, more than 170 Palestinian organizations, including the
Palestinian General Federation of Trade Unions voted to launch a global
economic movement against Israel. Many North American churches and social
justice organizations have also pledged their support, which has grown
significantly since Israel began building its infamous Apartheid Wall on
Palestinian land.
CUPE's resolution has been condemned by pro-Israel groups, including the
National Post, which tried to smear the union by saying its agenda is
"bigoted" and called for Canadian government reprisals.
CONTACTS:
Dr. Mohamed Elmasry
(519) 746-4107 (O)
(519) 498-1350 (Cell)
E-mail: np@canadianislamiccongress.com
Mrs. Wahida Valiante
(905) 771-1023
E-mail: nvp@canadianislamiccongress.com