Calgary Herald
Thu Dec 3 2009
Page: A15
Section: Q: Queries – Quibbles – Quirks
Byline: Gerry Barron
Column: Inbox: Your Space – Your Time

Re: “Jews are not The Other; the haters are,” Naomi Lakritz, Opinion, Nov. 18.

On behalf of the Jewish community, I wish to express our appreciation to all the Calgarians who supported us after the vile anti-Semitic graffiti attacks two weeks ago. We received many phone calls, e-mails and letters from government officials, faith leaders and citizens who wanted to express their revulsion at the desecration of synagogues and the Holocaust Memorial. An eight-year-old girl not only e-mailed us to say how wrong the behaviour was but to offer to help clean up the graffiti. It is encouraging and comforting to know that we do not stand alone in the battle against anti-Semitism in our community. An attack against any minority group is an attack against all Calgarians who believe in acceptance of diversity and respect for others. It is our collective commitment to uphold these Canadian values that led 25 community groups to come together in support of the “Calgary Says NO to Hate” rally last Thursday. When more than 500 people of diverse faiths and ethnic backgrounds stand together, it sends a very strong message that Calgary will not tolerate hatred, bigotry and discrimination. Clearly, the hatred expressed by a few does not reflect the views of the citizens of our great city.

Gerry Barron,

Calgary

Gerry Barron is president of the Calgary Jewish Community Council.