The Advocates' Society in Canada is facing turmoil after cancelling a keynote speech by Tareq Hadhad, a Syrian Canadian entrepreneur, due to concerns raised over his views on Gaza. Incoming president Sheree Conlon resigned in protest, claiming the decision undermined the society's values of civility and respectful discussion. Her resignation followed strong member backlash, with some even cancelling their memberships. Conlon argued that the society applied a double standard in its decision-making, highlighting the broader issues of freedom of expression and the organization's mission.
I have never agreed that TAS should have responded by cancelling Mr. Hadhad's invitation. I believe that by doing so, we abandoned our values and purposes, rather than promoting civility, respectful discussion and collegiality.
I also knew we were holding Mr. Hadhad to a standard that we have not applied to other speakers, leaders and award recipients.
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