The Centre’s Statement on the Assault of a Jewish Student in Winnipeg
Posted on: December 5, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 4, 2011

Upon learning of an assault against a Jewish student at Oak Park High School in Winnipeg Shelley Faintuch, Associate Director, Local Partner Services for The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs released the following statement:

“This is a shocking act of violence that must not be tolerated. The allegation that the attack may have been motivated by antisemitism makes it of special concern to the Jewish community, but in actual fact, an attack like this affects all communities. We know Winnipeg to be a multicultural and diverse city where acts of violence such as this are rare.”

“We are pleased that Oak Park High School did the right thing by suspending the student in question and we will be reaching out to the administration to offer our assistance with their educational effort to prevent any further attacks. We are also encouraged that the Winnipeg Police Service is taking this matter seriously and that this case is being handled by senior members of the Crown Attorney’s office. We have full confidence that all relevant factors will be taken into account and that they will send a strong message that any act of antsemitism or racism will not be tolerated and will be punished to the full extent of the law.”

- 30 -