Canadian Press – March 31, 2008
REGINA – The decision by a First Nations group to reinstate a controversial aboriginal leader accused of promoting hatred drew swift criticism Monday from politicians and Jewish organizations.
The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations quietly reinstated David Ahenakew as a senator Friday by a vote of 43-3. But B’nai Brith Canada called the move a big mistake.
“David Ahenakew is on record for having made vile, hate-filled, anti-Semitic remarks,” B’nai Brith’s Frank Dimant said Monday from Toronto. “We urge the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations to reconsider.
“The onus is on the federation to distance itself from Ahenakew’s bigotry and not to reward him by welcoming him back with open arms.”