Canadian Jewish officials are outraged that demonstrators donned yellow Jewish stars last week to protest federal gun control legislation.
Ron Sorokin, an official with the Jewish Federation of Edmonton and the Canadian Jewish Congress, characterized last week’s protest as a highly misguided public relations stunt that would probably backfire on the protesters.
“The use of Holocaust imagery to further the cause of gun lobbyists is totally offensive,” Sorokin said. “These people should be ashamed of themselves.”
The Canadian Jewish Congress has come out in favor of the legislation, which would strengthen gun control measures and mandate the registration of firearms.
“Gun control takes on added significance as white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups in Canada become increasingly well-armed with sophisticated weaponry,” the CJC said in a statement.
The CJC also noted that “elements from violent racist groups have targeted the Canadian Armed Forces for infiltration to acquire military training and access to weapons.”
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.