Apology helps reconciliation

This letter was sent to Keith Landy, president of Canadian Jewish Congress, and is reprinted with permission.

Dear Mr. Landy:
On behalf of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, I would like to fully and completely assure you that this organization does not share in the totally unacceptable and highly offensive anti-Semitic sentiments expressed last week by David Ahenakew.

I carefully listened to Ahenakew's apology and I believe that his resignation from his high-profile political positions represents an initial step toward a just response to such contemptible comments. As Ahenakew attests, his actions will speak more than the words of his apology. I sincerely hope that Ahenakew will extend his hand to the Jewish community to begin the process of reconciliation.
I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the valuable support of Nisson Goldman, chair of the Pacific Region of Canadian Jewish Congress (CJC), who, earlier this year, spoke out against the results of the Referendum on Treaty Principles. It is such proven support from the CJC that ensures that our respective communities and organizations may look toward a future of building strong relationships.

Today, we enjoyed the distinct honor of hosting Mr. Mark Weintraub at our annual UBCIC Christmas open house celebration. My wife, Mrs. Joan Phillip, presented Mr. Weintraub with a pair of beaded earrings featuring the star of David.

I will contact Mr. Goldman to meet with me so that we can discuss approaches where our organizations can work closely together on areas of mutual concern.

Chief Stewart Phillip
President, Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs