CAEF letter to Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) urging they rescind decision to cancel a film that tells the story of an Israeli hero during October 7

Dear TIFF Board and Staff,

Our letter is directed at all parties at TIFF because the organization's political position impacts all aspects of your business, your relationships, your employees and public perception of the organization. In the case of Management's withdrawal of a film about a hero of the massacre of October 7, 2023 in Israel, this speaks volumes and one cannot argue it is not a politicized decision. This could, and should, affect how donors and volunteers feel about the organization.

The suggestion that the producers of a film need approval from terrorists who massacred women, children, the elderly, men, boys, foreign nationals, and kidnapped over 250 people, in a macabre barbaric rage against Israel is ludicrous in the extreme. The Hamas and Islamic jihad barbarians filmed their inhumane behaviour for the entire world and continue to seek "audience approval" by holding hostages to this day! Some Israeli hostages were recently shown in terror tunnels where they are being starved to death.

If any story needs to get out this year, it is the documentary by Canadian Barry Avrich that should be top of the list. Canadians need to see the quality produced by a great Canadian film maker, producer author, and to learn about a hero who saved lives, risking his own. Surely that is worthy of your attention.

To suggest that the Islamofascists who continue to hold hostages, to use their own people as human shields, who steal aid and sell it on the black market, who kill gays and minorities, should have a say and give permission to use video clips of their barbarism is beyond incredible. Are you imagining they should get a share of any income from the film, so they can continue their savagery? Do you want the stars of Hamas to be feted at a TIFF gala?

If there are risks in showing the film, The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue then TIFF must accept these as it would for any other documentary that deals with any manner of subjects. This one is not about politics but about brutality and heroism. Which is it that you object to?

The Canadian Antisemitism Education Foundation urges you to immediately rescind the biased, poorly presented arguments for withdrawing your offer and immediately schedule this film for the upcoming annual celebration of films and use this opportunity to educate audiences.

Sincerely,

Andria Spindel

Executive Director

Canadian Antisemitism Education Foundation