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Toronto School Sparks Outrage: Arabic National Anthem Played on Israel Attack Anniversary

A Toronto high school's Arabic national anthem stunt on a sensitive anniversary has sparked outrage. Now, investigations and demands for action are underway.

In this picture we can see a boy is standing behind the podium and on the podium there are...
In this picture we can see a boy is standing behind the podium and on the podium there are microphones. Behind the boy there is a flag and a banner.

Toronto School Sparks Outrage: Arabic National Anthem Played on Israel Attack Anniversary

A controversial incident at a Toronto high school has sparked outrage and investigations. On the second anniversary of a Hamas-led attack on Israel, the national anthem was played in Arabic at Earl Haig Secondary School. This has led to a directive from the Toronto District School Board, condemnation from political figures, and demands for action from various organizations.

The incident, which took place on Oct. 7, saw the national anthem 'O Canada' played in Arabic. This has been deemed inappropriate by many, given that it occurred on the anniversary of a terrorist attack that resulted in over 1,200 deaths and about 250 abductions in Israel. The school board has responded by instructing all schools to use only English, French, or instrumental versions of the anthem.

Education Minister Paul Calandra has condemned the incident, stating that schools should respect national symbols and federal legislation regarding the national anthem. Local Progressive Conservative MPP Stan Cho has also expressed concern about the incident and emphasized the importance of respect and safety in schools. The board is currently investigating the matter.

Several organizations have spoken out against the incident. Canadian Women Against Antisemitism and the Abraham Global Peace Initiative have called for an apology and mandatory antisemitism training at the board. The Central Council of Jews in Germany has also demanded an apology and mandatory education on antisemitism.

The incident at Earl Haig Secondary School has highlighted the importance of respect and understanding in our schools. The Toronto District School Board's directive aims to prevent such incidents in the future. However, the calls for apology and education from various organizations indicate that this incident has caused significant offense and has sparked a conversation about antisemitism and respect for national symbols.

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