Canadian legal group rocked by 2nd high-profile resignation, as treasurer steps down over ‘chilling effect’
The fallout over the cancellation of Syrian Canadian entrepreneur and peace advocate, Tareq Hadhad’s speaking invitation by a Canadian legal organization continues to escalate. The latest development in this controversy is the resignation of Sheila Gibb, the treasurer of The Advocates’ Society, who was also set to become the vice-president.
In a statement released online, Gibb expressed her disappointment over the decision to cancel Hadhad’s keynote speech at the upcoming event in June. She acknowledged that the cancellation had caused “hurt and trauma to many members of our community” and highlighted the organization’s failure to create a welcoming and inclusive space for all its members.
Gibb’s resignation follows the departure of incoming president Sheree Conlon, who stepped down citing the organization’s abandonment of its values in rescinding Hadhad’s invitation. The decision to cancel the speech was made after some members raised concerns about Hadhad’s social media posts regarding Gaza, where he referred to Israel’s actions as “genocide.”
Notably, lawyer Jonathan Lisus had criticized Hadhad for his alleged one-sided view of the conflict, pointing out that Hadhad had not shown solidarity with Israeli victims of violence. Gibb echoed concerns that Hadhad was being held to a different standard compared to other speakers and emphasized the importance of allowing diverse perspectives and challenging discussions within the legal community.
The organization issued an apology to its members for mishandling the situation but did not indicate whether Hadhad’s invitation would be reinstated. Hadhad, on the other hand, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received following the cancellation. He clarified his stance on Gaza, emphasizing that his concern for the suffering of one group does not exclude empathy for others affected by violence worldwide.
As the controversy continues to unfold, the legal community is grappling with questions of diversity, inclusivity, and the boundaries of free speech. The resignations of key members like Gibb and Conlon underscore the deep divisions within the organization and the challenges of navigating sensitive political issues in a polarized world. It remains to be seen how The Advocates’ Society will address these concerns and move forward in fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment for all its members.
