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Ontario Jews Seek End of Religious Instruction in Schools

February 7, 1956
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An appeal to the government of Ontario to terminate religious instruction in the public schools of the province was voiced here at the 16th conference of the Central Region of the Canadian Jewish Congress. The conference, in a resolution, noted that such teachings set up divisions among the children in the public schools, a practice which the parley characterized as “harmful to the basic interests of our democratic society.”

The conference also called on the government of Ontario to amend its anti-discrimination law so as to improve its administration and “avoid misinterpretations that have frustrated the law’s intent.” In conjunction with rabbis and teachers, the conference decided that Jewish communities should attempt to achieve Jewish educational programs covering five hours weekly for children over a period of at least six years. Taking cognizance of Israel’s danger, the delegates urged the Canadian Government to make available arms for the Jewish State and to help obtain security guarantees for it.

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