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The Anti-Racism Program of the CJPME Foundation (ARPCF) expresses deep concern over the recent dismissal of Asad Gondal by B.C. United, following his candid remarks about the situation in Gaza. The decision to drop Mr. Gondal as a candidate due to his description of the war in Gaza as a genocide highlights a troubling instance of anti-Palestinian racism. The ARPCF believes that this act not only silences critical voices but also perpetuates a denial of the severe human rights abuses and violence faced by Palestinians.

"Denying the term 'genocide' for the atrocities committed by Israel in Gaza, and dismissing critics of Israel's actions, shields aggressors and erases the severe human rights violations faced by Palestinians," said Jamila Ewais, lead researcher for the ARPCF. "This approach by B.C. United, swayed by external pressures, effectively places Israel above legal, historical and moral scrutiny. These actions are detrimental as they silence the victims of genocide and contribute to a broader context of impunity for Israel."

The ARPCF condemns the suppression of Mr. Gondal’s legitimate criticism of the injustices faced by Palestinians. “It is imperative that we recognize the dismissal of Mr. Gondal not as an isolated incident but as part of a larger pattern of institutional anti-Palestinian racism that seeks to invalidate the suffering of Palestinians and silence their advocates,” added Ewais. The ARPCF notes that Israel has been brought before the International Court of Justice for committing allegedly genocidal acts in Gaza. A recent survey by Leger found that 45% of Canadians believe that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, compared to only 23% who disagree.

The ARPCF urges B.C. United and other political parties to firmly uphold the principles of free speech and justice regarding discussions on Palestine. This involves publicly supporting open discourse and allowing political candidates and community members to express their views in support of Palestinian human rights without fear of dismissal or censorship. The ARPCF also demands the implementation of clear policies that protect individuals from retaliation for advocating Palestinian rights or criticizing Israeli government actions. Additionally, the ARPCF calls for B.C. United to issue a formal apology for Mr. Gondal, whose dismissal was accompanied by the vilification of his religious beliefs and political views, despite the party's prior knowledge of these views. These measures are crucial for fostering a well-informed public and ensuring a society where the rights of all, including Palestinians, are recognized and protected.

About the ARPCF – The mandate of the Anti-Racism Program of the CJPME Foundation (ARPCF) is to create public awareness about racism in Canada.  This mandate falls in line with the Foundation’s broader purpose of monitoring and combating manifestations of racism, xenophobia, and discrimination by increasing public awareness of such biases.

For more information, please contact Jamila Ewais, 514-389-8668
ARPCF, [email protected]  www.cjpmefoundation.org

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