Call to TAKE ACTION in the name of justice and peace.
I am writing you with an urgent request that you support the Moderator’s letter to Prime Minister Trudeau by contacting your member of parliament as soon as possible. Ask them to protect the right to freedom of expression in Canada and non-violent global efforts to promote a just peace for just peace for Palestinians and Israelis.The Moderator of The United Church of Canada has written to Prime Minister Trudeau asking him to uphold democratic rights and freedoms by defeating the following motion which has been tabled in the House of Commons:
“That, given Canada and Israel share a long history of friendship as well as economic and diplomatic relations, the House reject the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which promotes the demonization and delegitimization of the State of Israel, and call upon the government to condemn any and all attempts by Canadian organizations, groups or individuals to promote the BDS movement, both here at home and abroad.”
Moreover, Moderator Cantwell calls on the Canadian government to “be part of global efforts to promote a non-violent, negotiated end to the occupation and a just peace for Palestinians and Israelis.” To read the Moderator’s letter see: http://www.united-church.ca/
The motion was tabled in the House of Commons on Thursday and is scheduled to be voted on Monday, February 22.
Take Action
1.Write or speak with your Member of Parliament as soon as possible. Request that they vote against this motion The House of Commons website has a complete list of MPs' e-mail addresses and fax and phone number: http://www.lop.parl.gc.ca/
2.Share this Take Action through social media: http://www.united-church.ca/
3.Connect with elected officials on social media. Urge them to protect the fundamental right to free speech enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and those who are part of non-violent efforts for a just peace for Palestinians and Israelis.
Background
The United Church of Canada has a long history of working with others to seek peace with justice in Israel and Palestine. This work is rooted in the gospel mandate to be peacemakers and in response to the calls of Palestinian and Israeli partners to join them in working toward a just peace for both peoples. For more information about current activities, see http://www.united-church.ca/
Send copies of your letters and e-mails to:
Christie Neufeldt
Program Coordinator, Public Witness
416-231-7680 ext. 4078
1-800-268-3781 ext. 4078
cneufeldt@united-church.ca
