
A Letter to the Canadian Jewish News Regarding Homophobia and Religious Prejudice


We, the undersigned, would like to bring to your attention our anger and
concern at the letter “Homosexuality prohibited by Torah law” that
appeared in the “Editorials and Letters” section of the CJN on August 5,
2010.
This letter expressed one reader’s objection to the
overwhelming support and participation that the Jewish community showed
in the recent Gay Pride Parade in Toronto. Shortly after declaring that
Muslims are Jewish enemies, the letter concludes with the author’s
suggestion that Jewish federations and groups should support queer
members of the Jewish community by investing in “sexual reorientation
programs.” To suggest that all Muslims are the “enemy” shows the same
absurd and dangerous villification that often results in the
maltreatment or discrimination of entire peoples, something that Jews
have known too well throughout history. Further, “sexual orientation
programs” are often violent, and always inspired by a hate for a
person’s current sexuality. Suggestions and support for such programs,
and hate for other faith groups has no place in our Jewish community, or
a Jewish community newspaper. It is the responsibility of the Editorial
Board to keep such comments out of the CJN.
We acknowledge the
right of people to debate religious texts and their interpretations. We
also acknowledge the author’s right to submit this letter to the CJN. As
a community newspaper, however, the CJN has a responsibility not to
print such pieces that ostracize and demonize members of our Jewish
community, and members of other faiths.
We request that the
CJN prints an apology and retraction and re-establishes this newspaper
as a community newspaper that welcomes readers from all walks of life.
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