Fw: Barak is coming (this time for real) in May 2005

Concordia extends invitation to Barak Last Updated Fri, 05 Nov 2004 10:54:18 EST MONTREAL - A Montreal university has reversed a controversial decision and will allow a former Israeli prime minister to speak on campus, despite fears that rioting that broke in 2002 will be repeated. Last month, Concordia University was accused of gagging free speech when it refused to allow Ehud Barak to speak on campus. The university offered to co-sponsor Barak's appearance at another location, arguing that it couldn't adequately secure any building on campus. Two years ago, it was forced to cancel a speech by Barak's predecessor, Benjamin Netanyahu, after pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian students clashed violently. Barak may speak in May But Concordia spokesperson Dennis Murphy said Thursday that the school now plans to allow Barak to speak on campus, possibly in May. Sylvain Abitbol, head of the Jewish philanthropy group Combined Jewish Appeal, called Concordia's about-face a step in the right direction. It's a victory of free speech and a defence of Canadian values, Abitbol said. Pro-Palestinian student groups have denounced the visit, calling Barak a war criminal. The university's initial offer to help host Barak off campus was rejected by both Barak and the Jewish student group Hillel, which had extended the invitation to Barak. The decision to host the former prime minister comes as B'Nai Brith prepares to file a human-rights complaint against five universities, including Concordia, for failing to protect Jewish students from discrimination. Written by CBC News Online staff _________________________________________________________________ Don't just search. Find. Check out the new MSN Search! http://search.msn.com/