At a time when every Canadian is nervously waiting for Corona to cause hurt to us or our loved ones and even to our country, its hard to keep in mind that it could be (and no doubt will be) worse for others. How do we balance our need for self protection with our desire to show solidarity to others? A Montreal disaster nurse who is a longtime human rights activist talks about international solidarity in the time of COVID. See the video interview here… (more…)
When meeting restrictions arising from the Corona crisis prevented public gatherings to commemorate the Palestinian Nakba, an Ottawa group decided on another approach. For the next eight weeks – March 29 to May 22 – the “Nakba Commemoration Initiative” will be on-line. Viewers from across Canada and around the world are invited to share their stories. CTIP shares a story about Jaffa. Read more…. (more…)
In many Israeli hospitals, Jewish and Palestinian doctors work side by side. Right-wing politicians who oppose the participation of Palestinian citizens of Israel in the Knesset (parliament) are more than willing to have Palestinians risk their lives fighting this deadly virus. But the practices of the Israeli government in providing health services to its citizens are highly discriminatory. As guest columnist Suha Salman-Mousa explains, they appear to be guided by a desire to protect Jewish citizens of Israel while mostly ignoring its non-Jewish citizens. Read more...
Up to the beginning of March, a debate had begun in various legislatures in Canada over anti-Semitism and how to fight it. The city councils of Montreal (above), Calgary and Vancouver discussed and declined to adopt a controversial motion which defines anti-Semitism in a way that is aimed to shield Israel from criticism. But those behind the motion have had some successes elsewhere. When the Corona virus crisis abates there is little doubt they will be back to continue their campaign. Why is the motion they are proposing so problematic, and what can be done about it? Read more…
While scientists, public health agencies and governments around the world are working overtime to understand the Corona virus and prepare for its impact on society, fundamentalist religious leaders are offering their own interpretations – and remedies. Take a look. (more…)
