CAEF Letter to Pride PEI, July 7, 2025

Dear Pride PEI Organizers; 

The statement below, taken from your website, suggests that Pride PEI values all people, all Canadians, no matter their unalterable characteristics, and suggests that ALL people should be treated with respect and dignity. Does the lack of inclusion of “faith,” “political views”, and “ethnic origin” suggest that people do not deserve respect and dignity under these identities?  

“Commit to treating each other with respect and dignity, regardless of age, race, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, or other diverse identities” 

Pride PEI seems to hold a view of disrespect and denigration of Jewish Canadians and demonstrates ignorance as to the Biblical origin of the word Zion, another name for Israel and specifically for Jerusalem. Zionists hold the believe that Jews have the right to self-determination in their ancient homeland, Israel. Zionists acknowledge that the only sovereign state in the Land of Israel was Jewish, founded initially under King David.  Zionists, realize that there is no Judaism without Zionism which is a foundational aspect of their ethno-religious history and faith. There has never been a Palestinian state and the PSP campaign which pushes a BDS agenda is clearly calling for the eradication of Israel and the genocide of Jews and other Israeli citizens who live in this historic land.  

Thus, the exclusion of “Zionists’ by Pride PEI is a clear case of religious and ethnic discrimination, belies the so-called commitment to treating people with respect and dignity and brings shame to the organization. While Russia invaded Ukraine and has targeted and killed civilians, Pride PEI takes no stance, nor should it.  While Islamists have tortured and beheaded Christians across Africa and the Middle East, Pride PEI takes no position, nor should it. However, when the legitimate State of Israel attacks terrorists, defends its citizens (Jews, Christians, Muslim, Bahai, Druze etc) Pride PEI treats Canadians who identify as Jewish with exclusion. This duplicity has a name—antisemitism! 

Pride PEI should not be proud, nor should it receive any government funding or moral support from the people of Prince Edward Island. They deserve better. 

Regards, 

Andria Spindel,

Executive Director, CAEF