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Feb 02, 2009 statement by Peter Kent on the issue of Anti-Semitism & Intolerance

Statement by Peter Kent


Statement by Minister Kent on Venezuela Synagogue Attacks

Ottawa, ON – The Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas), today released the following statement condemning the attack that occurred on a synagogue in Caracas, Venezuela:

“The Government of Canada strongly condemns the attack on the Maripérez Synagogue.

“This act of anti-Semitic vandalism is an assault on the freedoms that Canada and all democratic nations cherish. The violent desecration of Judaism’s most holy objects and the profaning of their sacred space have created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation for the Jewish community in Venezuela. We cannot be silent.

The scourge of hate-filled bigotry must be confronted and rejected whenever and wherever it rears its ugly head. Canada denounces this act of anti-Semitism and all acts of anti-Semitism around the world.

“Canada stands in solidarity with the congregation of Maripérez synagogue and all Venezuelans who reject such intolerance and violence. We urge the government of Venezuela to follow through on their commitment to investigate this crime and bring the perpetrators to justice.” 

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