MONTREAL/September 9, 2002—
A few weeks ago, the Concordia chapter of the student Hillel Society extended an invitation to former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to speak at the university today, September 9, 2002, on current issues in the Middle East. The lecture was cancelled based on a decision jointly taken by police authorities, the University administration and the Mr. Netanyahu's personal security force. The decision was made when police authorities felt they could not guarantee the security of the audience, the students and the staff within the Henry H. Hall Building.
The University will not be intimidated by any group or organization, which does not respect our tradition of openness, tolerance of diversity and freedom of expression.
Because of today's events, the following measures have been taken by the senior administration:
1. Normal operations will resume tomorrow, Tuesday, September 10th. The Hall Building will be open as usual. Students, professors and staff can be assured that appropriate security will be in place.
2. Those identified as having provoked or engaged in violence or vandalism will be prosecuted and their student status reviewed.
3. What is needed now is a period of restraint. A moratorium on the use of university space for events related to the Middle East conflict will be instituted immediately and until further notice. This includes a moratorium on public speeches, rallies, exhibits and information tables. We will be meeting with student leaders to develop a more long-term policy in this regard.
Today's events have only reinforced Concordia's stand on freedom of expression and its mission as an institution of higher learning.
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