Prime Minister Harper Receives B'nai Brith Award

July 21, 2008

Prime Minister Stephen Harper is the first Canadian to receive the B’nai Brith International President’s Gold Medallion, in recognition of the Government’s efforts to fight discrimination and uphold human rights in Canada and around the world. The Prime Minister received the award at B’nai Birth International Board of Governors meetings, held in conjunction with the B’nai Brith Canada annual Policy Conference, the first time such a joint meeting has been held outside the United State.

“The award of the Gold Medallion generously acknowledges that the actions of our Government are guided by the principle that hate and discrimination have no place in a civilized society,” Prime Minister Harper said. “It’s a special honour to be so recognized by one of the world’s largest and oldest human rights organizations.

B’nai Brith International President Moishe Smith cited a number of actions our government has taken to advance human rights and oppose discrimination, including: Unequivocally supporting Canada’s role in the UN sanctioned mission in Afghanistan; Refusing to sign a resolution denouncing Israel’s right to self-defence at the 2006 Francophonie Summit; Suspending relations with the then Hamas-led government in Palestine, for its refusal to renounce terrorism and Delivering a heartfelt apology acknowledging the overtly discriminatory Indian Residential Schools Program.

“Prime Minister, whether in opposition or in government, you have always portrayed a leadership style that speaks of principle and honesty,” said Smith. “Our decision to award you the Gold Medallion reflects the esteem the world Jewish community holds for you.”